Does reintroduction stabilize the population of the critically endangered gharial (Gavialis gangeticus, Gavialidae) in Chitwan National Park, Nepal?

A population of critically endangered gharials (Gavialis gangeticus) in Chitwan National Park, Nepal, has been stabilized through a long-term reintroduction program initiated in 1981. Despite fluctuations between 34 and 38 individuals over two years (2003–2004), the program has prevented further decline. Gharials prefer large sand banks for basking, which are threatened by dams, sand mining, grazing, fishing, drift nets, and water pollution. The study highlights the need for stricter protection of basking sites, prohibition of fishing in key zones, and long-term community involvement to ensure survival. These findings underscore the importance of targeted conservation measures to mitigate threats and sustain gharial populations.

Ballouard, J.-M., Priol, P., Oison, J., Ciliberti, A., & Cadi, A. (2010). Does reintroduction stabilize the population of the critically endangered gharial (Gavialis gangeticus, Gavialidae) in Chitwan National Park, Nepal? Aquatic Conservation: Marine and Freshwater Ecosystems, 20(7), 756–761. Portico. https://doi.org/10.1002/aqc.1151