|
| Published Monday, April 12, 2021
By the A.M. Costa Rica staff
The tropical garfish (Atractosteus tropicus), is a native species of freshwater, in rivers, estuaries, wetlands and lagoons from southern Mexico to Costa Rica.
The gar is considered a living fossil fish, since it has kept its physiognomy intact since its ancestors who inhabited the time of the dinosaurs, more than 65 million years ago. However, the fish has been among the species at risk of extinction due to unregulated fishing.
That is why the Ministry of Security, in joining with authorities from the Ministry of the Environment and volunteers of the communities of the canton of Los Chiles, have developed the protection plan to detect illegal fishing of this species.
As the rainy season advances, the flow of water increases in the rivers in the Caño Negro Wildlife Refuge, located northeast of Alajuela Province. The increase in water levels helps in the spawning season of the gar, a situation that makes them extremely vulnerable to uncontrolled fishing.
The communities have implemented the fish protection campaign, called in the Maleku language "Tuerrito mi pun safu," which could be translated as Long Live to the Fish Gar in English.
With the support of the police forces of the Ministry of Security, such as Local police, Border Police, park rangers, and volunteers from nearby communities, it initiates actions to protect the fish from illegal fishing.
As part of the plan, patrols by water and land are being carried out 24/7 during the entire period of the fish-ban of this species, which lasts until May 31.
The operation also involves inspections of bars, tourist centers, restaurants, where garfish dishes are suspected of being sold.
Authorities call on the public to report any suspicion of illegal gar fishing or any other endangered species to the Ministry of the Environment by calling 506 2233-4533 from Monday to Friday between the hours of 7 a.m. to 3 p.m.
-------------------
What have you heard about illegal gar fishing in your community? We would like to know your thoughts on this story. Send your comments to news@amcostarica.com
|
