Rare Dolphin Family Spotted in Cambodia’s Kampot Marine Conservation Area

Rare Dolphin Family Spotted in Cambodia’s Kampot Marine Conservation Area

KAMPOT, May 10, 2026 — A rare family of Indo-Pacific humpback dolphins has been spotted in protected coastal waters in Cambodia’s Kampot province, in what conservationists say is another positive sign of improving marine biodiversity.

Drone footage captured the dolphins swimming together in the waters of the Prek Tnaot fishing community, showing two adult dolphins gently touching snouts while a juvenile circled nearby, according to local conservation officials.

Researchers identified the animals as Indo-Pacific humpback dolphin, a species considered vulnerable in many parts of Asia due to habitat loss, pollution and fishing activity.

Officials said the sighting reflected the strong social bonds and peaceful behaviour of the dolphins within a protected marine conservation area.

Cambodia’s Fisheries Administration, under the Ministry of Agriculture, has been working with Marine Conservation Cambodia and local authorities to strengthen marine conservation efforts along the country’s coastline.

As part of the programme, authorities have deployed artificial reef structures made from stone blocks across several conservation zones to create habitats for marine biodiversity.

Conservation officials said the artificial reef initiative, launched in 2023, has contributed to increasing fish stocks and marine species populations while supporting sustainable fisheries for local communities.

Marine researchers have in recent months also reported growing numbers of vulnerable marine species, including seahorses, in Cambodia’s coastal waters, which they say indicates improving ecosystem stability in protected areas.