Phika
ហ្វីកា
Pronunciation: phi-ka
Khmer term for the Irrawaddy dolphin (Orcaella brevirostris), a freshwater cetacean species listed as “critically endangered” by the IUCN. The residual Mekong Cambodia population is estimated at fewer than 90 individuals, concentrated mainly around the Kampi Pool, 15 km north of Kratie.
The WWF Cambodia conservation programme employs community rangers to protect spawning areas. Phika observation is regulated: minimum approach distances are mandatory, and motorboats are prohibited in protected zones.