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Hippo Population in DRC Decimated |
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| Following a study by Congolese
Institute for the Conservation of Nature (ICCN), the WWF has reported the
hippo population in the Democratic Republic of Congo's Virunga National Park
has declined by roughly 95% over the last 30 years. At one time, Virunga
held one of the world's largest population at around 30,000. The population
had dwindled to around 10,000 when factional fighting erupted in the country
in 1994. However, a census performed in March and August now places the
population at around 1,300.
Much of the loss has been attributed to hunting for canine teeth as a substitute to elephant tusks. Hippo teeth may grow as long as a 80 cm (31 in.) and the dentin material beneath the enamel is chemically equivalent. Earlier in 2003, hundreds of hippos were reportedly poisoned in the Rutsuru River which provides fresh water to Lake Edward. The poisonings were suspected to be carried out by ivory poachers.
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The loss of the hippo population has provided
an additional blow to the human population. Hippo dung is widely regarded
for providing nutrients to local waterways which facilitates the health of
the fish population. More than 20,000 people around the park rely on fishing
for their livelihood. Local fishermen are now reporting that there are not
enough fish to even eat let alone sell at market.
WWF says the recent formation of a transitional government in war-torn Congo Kinshasa is raising hopes that the country can begin instituting proper planning and management of its natural resources.
Source: Alisha Ryu (voanews.com) 1
Sep 03; and misc. other sources.
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