The unique aquatic mammals inhabiting the Amazon River system and its tributaries in Peru, possessing a distinctive rosy hue, represent a captivating subject within the realm of freshwater biology. These animals, also known as boto, are a prominent symbol of the region’s biodiversity. The appearance of their coloration can vary from a vibrant pink to a more muted greyish-pink, influenced by factors such as age, geographic location, and water clarity.
These freshwater cetaceans contribute significantly to the ecological balance of their environment, serving as indicators of river health and biodiversity. Their presence highlights the importance of conservation efforts within the Amazon basin. Indigenous cultures have long held these creatures in high regard, often featuring them in folklore and mythology, recognizing their integral role in the ecosystem.
The following exploration will delve into the biological characteristics, ecological significance, conservation challenges, and cultural relevance of these remarkable inhabitants of the Peruvian Amazon, providing a detailed overview of their existence within this vital ecosystem.
1. Habitat
The survival of pink river dolphins is inextricably linked to the health and integrity of their Amazonian habitat. These dolphins are endemic to the freshwater ecosystems of the Amazon and Orinoco river basins, with a notable presence within the Peruvian Amazon. The intricate network of rivers, tributaries, flooded forests (vrzea), and oxbow lakes provides the necessary resources for their survival. These areas serve as crucial foraging grounds, breeding sites, and refuge from predators. The physical characteristics of this habitat water depth, flow rate, turbidity, and vegetation density directly influence the dolphins’ distribution, behavior, and overall well-being. For example, the annual flooding cycle of the Amazon River dramatically alters the landscape, creating temporary habitats within the flooded forests where the dolphins can access previously inaccessible prey.
Alterations to this habitat, such as deforestation leading to increased sedimentation and pollution from mining and agricultural runoff, pose significant threats. Deforestation removes vital vegetation along riverbanks, which stabilizes the soil and prevents erosion, leading to increased sediment load in the water. This increased turbidity reduces visibility, impairing the dolphins’ ability to hunt effectively using echolocation. Furthermore, contaminants from mining activities, such as mercury, accumulate in the food chain, impacting the dolphins’ health and reproductive success. These alterations directly compromise the ecological integrity of the dolphins’ habitat, decreasing its capacity to support a healthy population.
Preservation of the pink river dolphins necessitates comprehensive habitat conservation strategies. These include implementing sustainable land management practices, enforcing regulations against illegal logging and mining, and establishing protected areas that encompass critical dolphin habitats. Maintaining the natural hydrological cycle of the Amazon River is also crucial, ensuring the continuation of the seasonal flooding that sustains the ecosystem. In conclusion, protecting the habitat of the pink river dolphins is not merely an environmental concern; it is essential for the preservation of a unique species and the ecological integrity of the Peruvian Amazon.
2. Echolocation
Echolocation represents a crucial sensory adaptation for the pink river dolphin, allowing it to navigate and hunt effectively in the turbid waters of the Amazon River. This ability is vital for survival in an environment where visibility is severely limited.
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Mechanism of Sound Production and Reception
Pink river dolphins generate clicks and whistles, which propagate through the water. These sounds bounce off objects in the environment, and the dolphins receive the returning echoes through specialized structures in their head, including the melon, a fatty organ that focuses incoming sound waves. The subtle differences in the timing, intensity, and frequency of the echoes provide information about the size, shape, distance, and location of objects.
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Navigational Capabilities
In the murky waters of the Amazon, sight is of limited use. Echolocation allows these dolphins to create a “sound picture” of their surroundings, enabling them to navigate complex river systems, avoid obstacles like submerged logs and vegetation, and locate openings in dense vegetation. This is particularly important during the flood season when the river expands into the surrounding forests, creating a maze of underwater environments.
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Foraging Strategies
Pink river dolphins use echolocation to detect and pursue prey, including various species of fish, crabs, and turtles. The dolphins can distinguish between different types of prey based on the characteristics of the echoes they receive. For example, they can differentiate between a small, bony fish and a larger, more muscular fish, allowing them to target the most nutritious and accessible food sources. The efficiency of their echolocation directly impacts their foraging success and overall health.
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Impact of Environmental Degradation
Anthropogenic activities, such as increased river traffic and the use of sonar devices, introduce noise pollution into the dolphins’ environment. This noise interferes with their ability to effectively use echolocation, making it harder for them to find food, navigate, and communicate with each other. Furthermore, pollution from mining and agriculture can degrade water quality, affecting the propagation of sound and further impairing their echolocation capabilities. Protecting the acoustic environment of the Amazon is therefore critical for the conservation of these animals.
In conclusion, echolocation is fundamental to the survival of the pink river dolphin in its challenging Amazonian habitat. Understanding the intricacies of this sensory system, as well as the threats it faces from human activities, is essential for developing effective conservation strategies to protect these unique animals and the ecosystem they inhabit.
3. Conservation
The long-term survival of pink river dolphins in the Peruvian Amazon hinges directly on effective conservation efforts. These unique cetaceans face a multitude of threats stemming from human activities, making dedicated conservation strategies indispensable. Habitat degradation, primarily through deforestation and agricultural expansion, reduces the available foraging areas and exposes the dolphins to increased levels of pollution. Unregulated fishing practices, including the use of gillnets, can result in accidental entanglement and mortality. Furthermore, proposed hydroelectric dam construction poses a significant threat by altering river flow, fragmenting populations, and impacting the dolphins’ ability to navigate and find food. The cumulative effect of these pressures necessitates a coordinated and comprehensive approach to conservation.
Conservation initiatives targeting pink river dolphins in the Peruvian Amazon typically involve a combination of research, community engagement, and policy implementation. Scientific research is crucial for understanding population size, distribution, genetic diversity, and behavioral ecology. This data informs the development of targeted conservation measures, such as the establishment of protected areas in critical habitats. Engaging local communities is also essential, as their participation and support are vital for the long-term success of conservation efforts. This can involve providing alternative livelihood opportunities to reduce reliance on unsustainable fishing practices, promoting environmental education to raise awareness about the importance of dolphin conservation, and establishing community-based monitoring programs to track dolphin populations and identify threats. Legislation aimed at regulating fishing activities, controlling deforestation, and preventing pollution plays a critical role in protecting the dolphins and their habitat. Collaborative efforts between government agencies, non-governmental organizations, and local communities are necessary to ensure the effective enforcement of these regulations.
The preservation of pink river dolphins represents not only the protection of a single species but also the maintenance of the ecological integrity of the Peruvian Amazon. As apex predators, these dolphins play a crucial role in regulating fish populations and maintaining the health of the aquatic ecosystem. Their presence serves as an indicator of overall environmental health, and their decline can signal broader ecosystem degradation. The conservation of pink river dolphins therefore requires a holistic approach that addresses the underlying causes of habitat loss, pollution, and unsustainable resource use. Success depends on the effective implementation of conservation strategies, ongoing monitoring and research, and the active participation of local communities in safeguarding this iconic species for future generations. The future of these remarkable animals is intrinsically linked to the commitment and actions taken today to protect their habitat and mitigate the threats they face.
4. Diet
The dietary habits of pink river dolphins are central to their survival within the Amazon River system. These dolphins, inhabiting the turbid waters of Peru’s Amazonian rivers and tributaries, rely on a diverse range of aquatic organisms to meet their energy requirements. Their diet consists primarily of various fish species, including catfish, piranhas, and tetras, reflecting the abundance and availability of these resources within their habitat. Crustaceans, such as river crabs, also form part of their diet, particularly during periods of seasonal flooding when these invertebrates become more accessible. The specific composition of their diet can vary depending on geographic location within the Amazon basin, seasonal changes in prey availability, and the age and size of individual dolphins. A stable and diverse food supply is therefore essential for maintaining healthy populations of these cetaceans.
The impact of human activities on the food web directly influences the dolphins’ dietary intake and overall well-being. Deforestation leading to increased sedimentation can reduce water clarity, hindering the dolphins’ ability to locate prey using echolocation. Pollution from mining activities, particularly mercury contamination, can accumulate in the food chain, posing a serious health risk to the dolphins that consume contaminated fish. Overfishing can deplete the populations of key prey species, forcing the dolphins to expend more energy searching for food or to consume less nutritious alternatives. Changes in river hydrology due to dam construction can also disrupt the distribution and abundance of prey species, further impacting the dolphins’ food supply. Therefore, the health of the pink river dolphin populations serves as an indicator of the overall health of the Amazonian ecosystem and the sustainability of human activities within the region.
Understanding the dietary needs and feeding ecology of pink river dolphins is critical for effective conservation management. Protecting and restoring critical habitats, regulating fishing practices to ensure sustainable fish populations, and mitigating pollution are essential steps in safeguarding the dolphins’ food supply. Further research into the dolphins’ dietary habits, prey preferences, and foraging strategies is needed to inform targeted conservation efforts and assess the impacts of environmental changes. Collaborative efforts between researchers, local communities, and government agencies are necessary to ensure the long-term survival of these unique and ecologically significant animals in the Peruvian Amazon.
5. Threats
The persistent survival of pink river dolphins within the Amazon River system of Peru faces significant jeopardy from a confluence of anthropogenic threats. These threats directly impact their populations and the delicate ecological balance of their habitat. Habitat degradation, driven by deforestation and conversion of land for agriculture, reduces the extent of suitable foraging areas and disrupts the natural flow of the river, affecting prey availability. Uncontrolled fishing practices, notably the use of gillnets, result in incidental captures, leading to injury or mortality. Furthermore, pollution from mining activities, primarily mercury contamination associated with gold extraction, bioaccumulates in the food chain, posing severe health risks and impairing reproductive success. The proposed construction of hydroelectric dams threatens to fragment populations, alter water flow patterns, and impede the dolphins’ ability to navigate and access vital resources. These interconnected threats underscore the precarious situation of these cetaceans within their natural environment. An example of the devastating effects of mining can be seen in the Madre de Dios region, where rampant illegal gold mining has severely contaminated waterways with mercury, directly impacting the health and viability of the local dolphin populations.
The interplay between these threats is complex and often synergistic. Deforestation leads to increased sediment runoff, reducing water clarity and hindering the dolphins’ ability to effectively use echolocation for hunting. Pollution weakens their immune systems, making them more susceptible to disease and less resilient to other stressors. The presence of dams not only disrupts their movement but also alters the composition of the fish community, reducing the availability of preferred prey species. Recognizing these interactions is crucial for developing effective conservation strategies. For instance, addressing mercury contamination requires a multi-faceted approach that includes regulating mining practices, promoting alternative extraction methods, and remediating contaminated areas. Simultaneously, sustainable land management practices and responsible fishing regulations are necessary to minimize habitat degradation and reduce incidental captures.
Addressing the threats to pink river dolphins requires a concerted effort involving government agencies, local communities, and conservation organizations. Implementing stricter environmental regulations, promoting sustainable development practices, and raising awareness about the importance of dolphin conservation are essential steps. Monitoring dolphin populations and assessing the effectiveness of conservation interventions are also crucial for adapting strategies to changing circumstances. The long-term survival of these unique animals depends on the collective commitment to mitigating the threats they face and safeguarding the ecological integrity of the Peruvian Amazon. Failure to do so would represent a significant loss of biodiversity and a disruption of the intricate web of life within this vital ecosystem.
6. Social Structure
The social organization of pink river dolphins within the Peruvian Amazon presents a complex and poorly understood aspect of their biology. Unlike many other dolphin species that exhibit strong social bonds and live in large groups, these freshwater cetaceans appear to have a more fluid and flexible social structure, influenced by environmental factors and individual needs. Understanding this social organization is crucial for effective conservation strategies.
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Solitary and Small Group Dynamics
Pink river dolphins are often observed as solitary individuals or in small, loosely associated groups. These groups typically consist of a mother and her offspring, or a temporary aggregation of individuals for foraging or mating purposes. This social dynamic contrasts sharply with the tightly knit pods observed in oceanic dolphin species. The dispersed nature of prey in the Amazonian environment, coupled with the turbid waters limiting visual communication, may contribute to this more solitary lifestyle. The implications are that conservation efforts need to consider individual needs and habitat connectivity, rather than relying on strategies focused on large, cohesive social units.
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Mother-Calf Bonds
The bond between a mother and her calf represents a critical social unit within the pink river dolphin population. Calves remain dependent on their mothers for an extended period, learning essential survival skills such as foraging techniques and navigation within the complex river system. The duration and intensity of this bond influence the calf’s future social interactions and overall fitness. Disruptions to this bond, caused by human activities such as boat traffic or entanglement in fishing gear, can have devastating consequences for calf survival. Therefore, protecting critical habitats used by mothers and calves is paramount for ensuring the long-term viability of the species.
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Mating Systems and Social Interactions
The mating system of pink river dolphins is thought to be promiscuous, with males competing for access to receptive females. During the breeding season, males may engage in elaborate displays and aggressive interactions to establish dominance. These displays often involve vocalizations, physical displays, and the manipulation of objects in the water. The success of these displays influences male reproductive success and the genetic diversity of the population. Understanding the dynamics of these social interactions is important for assessing the impact of environmental changes on breeding behavior and population health. For example, increased noise pollution from boat traffic may disrupt communication and interfere with mating displays.
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Influence of Habitat Characteristics
The physical characteristics of the Amazonian environment, such as river depth, flow rate, and vegetation density, influence the social structure of pink river dolphins. In areas with abundant food resources and suitable habitat, dolphins may aggregate in larger numbers. Conversely, in areas with limited resources or high levels of disturbance, they may be more solitary. Seasonal changes in water level and food availability also affect social dynamics. During the flood season, when the river expands into the surrounding forests, dolphins may disperse more widely to exploit newly available foraging areas. These adaptations highlight the close relationship between the dolphins’ social structure and their environment, emphasizing the importance of maintaining habitat integrity for the species’ survival.
In conclusion, the social structure of pink river dolphins, while less defined than that of their oceanic counterparts, plays a critical role in their survival and reproductive success within the challenging environment of the Peruvian Amazon. Conservation strategies must consider the individual needs of these animals, the importance of mother-calf bonds, and the influence of habitat characteristics on social interactions. Protecting critical habitats, mitigating the impacts of human activities, and promoting sustainable resource management are essential for ensuring the long-term viability of these unique cetaceans.
7. Morphology
Morphology, the study of the form and structure of organisms, is fundamental to understanding the adaptations that allow pink river dolphins to thrive in the unique environment of the Peruvian Amazon. The physical characteristics of these dolphins are shaped by the challenges of navigating and foraging in turbid freshwater habitats.
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Flexible Neck and Body
Pink river dolphins possess a notably flexible neck and elongated body compared to their marine counterparts. This adaptation enables them to maneuver effectively through the complex submerged vegetation and narrow channels characteristic of the Amazonian river system. For instance, they can rotate their heads up to 90 degrees, facilitating foraging in confined spaces and allowing them to locate prey concealed amongst roots and branches. The implications are that this enhanced mobility is essential for navigating the intricate environment and accessing food resources.
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Long, Slender Snout
The dolphins’ long, slender snout, equipped with sensitive bristles, serves as a vital sensory tool for locating prey in murky waters. These bristles detect subtle vibrations and pressure changes in the water, allowing the dolphins to identify the location and movement of fish and crustaceans even in near-zero visibility. An example is when hunting for bottom-dwelling catfish, the dolphins use their snouts to probe the riverbed, relying on tactile cues to detect their prey. This adaptation highlights the reliance on senses other than vision in their environment.
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Reduced Eyesight
While possessing functional eyes, pink river dolphins exhibit reduced eyesight compared to oceanic dolphins. The turbid waters of the Amazon limit the effectiveness of vision as a primary sensory modality. The dolphins have evolved smaller eyes relative to their body size, adapted to function in low-light conditions. This trade-off emphasizes the importance of echolocation and tactile senses in their foraging and navigation strategies. Their reduced reliance on vision underscores the unique selective pressures within the Amazon River ecosystem.
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Coloration and Skin Thickness
The distinctive pink coloration of these dolphins varies in intensity depending on age, geographic location, and water conditions. While the precise function of this coloration is still debated, it may provide camouflage in the reddish-brown waters of the Amazon or play a role in thermoregulation. Their skin, though relatively thin, is highly vascularized, potentially aiding in heat dissipation in the warm Amazonian climate. This unique combination of coloration and skin properties contributes to their adaptation to the specific conditions of their habitat.
In summary, the morphology of pink river dolphins represents a suite of adaptations that have allowed them to thrive in the challenging environment of the Peruvian Amazon. From their flexible bodies to their specialized sensory organs, each physical characteristic reflects the unique selective pressures of their habitat. Further research into these adaptations will continue to shed light on the evolutionary history and ecological role of these remarkable creatures.
8. Behavior
The behavior of pink river dolphins in the Peruvian Amazon is intricately linked to their environment and survival. Their activities, including foraging, social interactions, and responses to threats, are shaped by the specific conditions of their habitat. For instance, their foraging behavior is directly influenced by the fluctuating water levels and turbidity of the Amazon River. They employ a variety of hunting techniques, such as cooperative herding of fish in shallow waters or using their sensitive snouts to probe the riverbed for crustaceans. These behaviors reflect adaptive strategies to maximize foraging success in an environment where visibility is limited. Consequently, any disruption to the natural cycles of the river, such as that caused by dam construction, would inevitably alter the distribution and abundance of prey, leading to a shift in their foraging behavior and potentially impacting their overall health and reproductive success. The importance of understanding these behaviors is thus paramount for formulating effective conservation strategies.
The social behavior, or lack thereof, in pink river dolphins is also noteworthy. Unlike many oceanic dolphins that live in large, cohesive pods, pink river dolphins are often observed as solitary individuals or in small, loosely affiliated groups. This may be a reflection of the dispersed nature of food resources within their habitat and the challenges of maintaining close social bonds in turbid waters. However, observations of cooperative hunting and temporary aggregations during mating season suggest that social interactions do play a role in their lives. Documented instances of mothers teaching their calves how to forage and navigate the complex river system highlight the importance of learned behaviors for survival. Understanding these social dynamics and how they are influenced by environmental factors is crucial for predicting how these dolphins will respond to habitat changes and other anthropogenic stressors. Alterations like increased boat traffic, for example, may disrupt their communication and social interactions, potentially leading to increased stress levels and reduced reproductive success.
In summary, the behavior of pink river dolphins is an integral component of their existence within the Peruvian Amazon, reflecting their adaptation to a challenging and dynamic environment. Recognizing the links between their behavior, the environment, and threats they face enables targeted conservation measures, such as habitat protection, regulation of human activities, and community engagement initiatives. Challenges remain in fully understanding the complexities of their behavior, particularly in the context of rapid environmental change. Addressing these gaps is vital for ensuring the long-term survival of these unique cetaceans and preserving the ecological integrity of the Amazon River system.
Frequently Asked Questions
This section addresses common inquiries regarding the pink river dolphins inhabiting the Amazon River system in Peru, providing concise and informative answers based on current scientific understanding.
Question 1: What is the primary reason for the pink coloration observed in Amazon river dolphins?
The pink hue arises from a combination of factors, including skin abrasion, blood vessel proximity to the surface, and genetic predisposition. Individual coloration can vary based on age, location, and water conditions.
Question 2: What is the current conservation status of pink river dolphins in the Peruvian Amazon?
The International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) currently lists pink river dolphins as Endangered. Populations are threatened by habitat loss, pollution, entanglement in fishing gear, and direct hunting.
Question 3: What are the major threats to pink river dolphin populations within the Peruvian Amazon?
Deforestation leading to habitat degradation, mercury contamination from gold mining, entanglement in fishing nets, and planned hydroelectric development represent the primary threats to their survival.
Question 4: What role does echolocation play in the survival of pink river dolphins in the turbid waters of the Amazon?
Echolocation serves as the primary means of navigation and prey detection. The dolphins emit clicks and interpret the returning echoes to create a “sound picture” of their surroundings in the low-visibility environment.
Question 5: What are effective strategies for conserving pink river dolphins in the Peruvian Amazon?
Conservation strategies include habitat protection, regulation of fishing practices, mitigation of pollution sources, promotion of community-based conservation initiatives, and continued scientific research to inform management decisions.
Question 6: Are there opportunities for responsible tourism focused on pink river dolphins in Peru?
Ecotourism opportunities do exist, but these must be carefully managed to minimize disturbance to the dolphins and their habitat. Sustainable tourism practices, such as observing dolphins from a distance and avoiding feeding or harassment, are crucial for responsible interaction.
The presented answers offer a foundational understanding of the complexities surrounding the biology and conservation of these unique animals.
This knowledge can be used to better inform subsequent sections exploring additional facets of the topic.
Pink Dolphins Amazon Peru
This section provides critical insights for conservationists, researchers, and stakeholders involved in protecting the pink river dolphins within the Peruvian Amazon.
Tip 1: Prioritize Habitat Preservation: Comprehensive habitat mapping and protection efforts are essential. Focus on safeguarding critical areas, such as breeding sites, foraging grounds, and river confluences. Establish protected areas with stringent enforcement mechanisms to prevent deforestation, mining, and agricultural encroachment. Example: Conduct regular aerial surveys to identify deforestation hotspots and implement reforestation programs in affected areas.
Tip 2: Address Mercury Contamination: Implement strategies to mitigate mercury pollution from illegal gold mining. This includes promoting alternative extraction methods, providing technical assistance to local miners, and enforcing stricter environmental regulations. Example: Invest in research to develop and implement mercury-free gold extraction technologies accessible to local communities.
Tip 3: Promote Sustainable Fisheries: Collaborate with local communities to implement sustainable fishing practices that minimize the risk of dolphin entanglement. This involves promoting the use of alternative fishing gear, establishing fishing exclusion zones in critical dolphin habitats, and conducting regular training programs on responsible fishing techniques. Example: Introduce and subsidize the use of dolphin-safe fishing nets that reduce the likelihood of accidental capture.
Tip 4: Conduct Comprehensive Population Monitoring: Establish a long-term monitoring program to track dolphin populations, distribution, and health. This program should utilize standardized survey methods and involve local communities in data collection. Example: Use hydrophones to monitor dolphin vocalizations and track their movements throughout the river system.
Tip 5: Foster Community Engagement: Engage local communities in conservation efforts by providing alternative livelihood opportunities, promoting environmental education, and empowering them to participate in decision-making processes. Example: Create community-based ecotourism initiatives that generate income and promote dolphin conservation awareness.
Tip 6: Advocate for Responsible Infrastructure Development: Carefully assess the potential impacts of planned infrastructure projects, such as hydroelectric dams, on dolphin populations and their habitat. Advocate for alternative development options that minimize environmental damage. Example: Conduct comprehensive environmental impact assessments that consider the cumulative effects of multiple infrastructure projects on the river system.
Implementing these recommendations requires sustained commitment, collaboration, and adaptive management. The long-term success of pink river dolphin conservation depends on a holistic approach that addresses the complex interplay of environmental, social, and economic factors.
These recommendations provide a practical framework for protecting these animals and the ecosystems they inhabit and serve as an essential conclusion to this investigation.
Pink Dolphins Amazon Peru
This exploration into the realm of “pink dolphins amazon peru” has illuminated the multifaceted challenges confronting these unique cetaceans. Habitat degradation, pollution, unsustainable fishing practices, and proposed infrastructure development collectively jeopardize their existence within a critical ecosystem. The intricate interplay between these threats underscores the urgency of comprehensive conservation efforts.
The continued survival of “pink dolphins amazon peru” necessitates decisive action from government bodies, conservation organizations, local communities, and the international community. Prioritizing habitat preservation, mitigating pollution sources, implementing sustainable fisheries management, and advocating for responsible infrastructure development represent essential steps toward safeguarding their future. The fate of these remarkable creatures ultimately serves as a barometer for the overall health and sustainability of the Amazon River system, a vital component of global biodiversity. Continued inaction will result in irreversible consequences.
