Endangered Vaquita Marina Porpoises in the Gulf of California

SOURCE www.nbcnews.com
The critically endangered vaquita marina porpoises in the Gulf of California have been sighted in very low numbers, with conservation efforts facing challenges due to illegal fishing practices and lack of enforcement of protection regulations.

Key Points

  • Vaquita marina porpoises, the world's smallest and most endangered marine mammal, facing severe population decline.
  • Illegal gillnets used for totoaba fishing continue to trap and kill vaquitas.
  • Conservation efforts, including acoustic monitoring, are hindered by challenges such as theft of equipment and lax enforcement.

Cons

  • Low number of vaquita marina porpoises sighted, between 6-8 this year.
  • Illegal gillnet fishing remains a significant threat to the vaquita population.
  • Lack of enforcement of protection regulations by the Mexican government.