By Melissa Cronin, Source: The Dodo

There are only 85 Mekong River Irrawaddy dolphins left now, and they are clinging to survival. Already decimated by gillnets that catch individuals and cause them to drown, the population is facing an even larger threat — this one is made of concrete.

The proposed construction of the Don Sahong Dam in Laos may mean extinction for the population, conservationists say. Not only will the sound waves from the dynamite used in construction be harmful, but increased boat traffic, changes in water quality and habitat destruction will all be in store for the dolphins after the dam goes up.

See more at: The Dodo