Cambodian Marine Mammal Conservation Project
ABOUT
Launched in 2017 by MCC in collaboration with the Fisheries Administration, the CMMCP is Cambodia’s first long-term research program dedicated to marine mammals. The project focuses on Irrawaddy dolphins and dugongs in the Kep Archipelago and, since 2022, has expanded to Kampot to monitor Indo-Pacific humpback dolphins.
These species face serious threats from destructive fishing, pollution, entanglement, and habitat loss. Through scientific monitoring, stranding response, and targeted conservation work, CMMCP is helping to safeguard Cambodia’s marine mammals and support healthy, resilient coastal ecosystems.
APPROACH
Boat-based surveys
Systematic surveys conducted from research vessels to monitor marine mammals, record sightings, and collect data on movement patterns, group size, and behaviour in Cambodian waters.
Land-based surveys
Observations carried out from coastal vantage points to track species presence, migration routes, and surface behaviour without disturbing marine life.
Drone surveys
Use of aerial drones to capture high-resolution images and videos, enabling accurate population counts, habitat assessment, and behavioural analysis with minimal environmental impact.
Stranding Network
A nationwide response network working with local communities to report, document, and respond to marine animal strandings, supporting rescue efforts and scientific investigation.
Through these methods, we collect vital data on species presence, distribution, group composition, and behaviour, helping to identify population trends and major threats such as bycatch, pollution, and habitat loss.
54
identified Irrawaddy dolphins in the Kep Archipelago
25
identified Indo-Pacific humpback dolphins in Kampot, with a population estimate of ~30 individuals
Scientific research
Distribution and seasonality
Critical habitats
Population abundance and trends
Behavioural ecology
Threats and drivers of mortality
Community collaboration
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Integrating local knowledge in conservation
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Stakeholder engagement and co-management
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Community education and outreach
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Capacity building and training
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Providing local employment, especially for women
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Citizen science supporting research
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Promoting sustainable livelihoods
Government partership
Data sharing and reporting
Stakeholder engagement and coordination
Developing management plans and protected areas
Capacity support and technical training for government
Science-based policy and informed conservation
AIMS
The CMMCP works to:
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Estimate population abundance and trends
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Map distribution and critical habitats
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Identify major threats such as entanglement, destructive fishing, pollution, and coastal development
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Understand human–marine mammal interactions
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Increase public awareness and support community engagement
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RESULTS AND SUCCESSES
1. Research & Population Insights
• Documented the distribution of Irrawaddy dolphins in the Kep Archipelago
• Identified seasonal patterns of dolphin presence (“high” and “low” seasons)
• Recorded 54 identified Irrawaddy dolphins in the Kep Archipelago
• Recorded 25 identified Indo-Pacific humpback dolphins in Kampot, with a population estimate of ~30 individuals
2. Threat Identification
• Highlighted key threats, including illegal and destructive fishing, entanglement, habitat degradation, and coastal development
3. Conservation Impact
• Supported the designation of the Kep Archipelago as an Important Marine Mammal Area (IMMA)