IWC’s First Extinction Alert

On August 7, 2023, the International Whaling Commission (IWC) released its first ever ‘extinction alert,’ focusing on the vaquita porpoise, a species with a mere 10 remaining individuals located in the Gulf of California or Sea of Cortez in Mexico. The vaquita is exclusively present in the northern section of the Gulf of California, Mexico, with its population dwindling from around 570 in 1997 to roughly 10 animals in 2018.

A Precarious Population

The vaquita porpoise’s survival hangs by a thread, with a mere 10 individuals remaining in the Gulf of California, Mexico. This narrow population puts the species on the brink of extinction, underscoring the dire circumstances that have prompted the IWC’s intervention.

Exclusive Habitat: Mexico’s Gulf of California

The vaquita porpoise is an endemic species, exclusively found in the northernmost part of the Gulf of California, Mexico. This restricted habitat adds to the urgency of conservation efforts, as the species’ survival hinges on the protection and restoration of its unique environment.

Bycatch: A Deadly Threat

The primary cause of the vaquita porpoise’s rapid decline is bycatch – the unintentional capture of these marine mammals in fishing gear. Gillnets, commonly used for fishing, have proven to be a lethal threat to the vaquita population.

Totoaba Trade Complications

Gillnets targeting totoaba, a fish highly valued in Chinese cuisine for its swimbladders, inadvertently trap vaquita porpoises. The illicit international trade in totoaba has further complicated efforts to address gillnet fishing and its devastating consequences on the vaquita population.

Enforcement: A Ray of Hope

Despite the grim scenario, the IWC’s alert emphasizes that enforcement of a complete gillnet ban within the vaquita’s core habitat could still offer a chance of recovery for this resilient species. The IWC underscores the critical importance of implementing effective measures to protect the vaquita from further harm.

A Lesson in Conservation

The IWC’s Scientific Committee emphasizes the lesson that conservation efforts must be multi-disciplinary. Addressing the broader factors contributing to extinction requires a comprehensive approach that goes beyond immediate concerns.

Month: Current Affairs - August, 2023

Category: Environment Current Affairs