Only 30 vaquita porpoises remain in the wild, threatened by illegal fishing for the totoaba, whose swim bladders are sought after in the East.
Synopsis
Only 30 vaquita porpoises remain in the wild, threatened by illegal fishing for the totoaba, whose swim bladders are sought after in the East.
Synopsis
Baja California's waters are home to the vaquita porpoise and the totoaba fish, both facing imminent extinction. Illegal fishing nets threaten their survival. The totoaba's swim bladder is highly valued in East Asian markets, attracting organized crime. As these species decline, conservation efforts struggle against the illegal fishing industry. The film presents the urgent situation of these marine animals and the challenges posed by poaching and habitat loss. It runs for 15 minutes and was released in 2017.
Deep Dive
Why Watch
- See the plight of the vaquita porpoise in Baja California.
- Find out why totoaba swim bladders are so valuable.
- Meet the criminals behind illegal fishing operations.
Did You Know
- The vaquita porpoise is on the brink of extinction, with fewer than 30 left.
- Totoaba swim bladders can sell for up to $20,000 each in illegal markets.
- Illegal fishing nets are a primary threat to both the vaquita and totoaba.
Perfect For
Frequently Asked Questions
What species are at risk of extinction in Baja California?
The vaquita porpoise and the totoaba are at risk of extinction in Baja California.
Why are vaquita porpoises and totoabas targeted by the mafia?
They are sought after for their swim bladders, which are highly prized in the East.
What is a major threat to the vaquita and totoaba populations?
Illegal fishing nets pose a significant threat to the populations of both species.
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