So it seems that after recent discoveries about how Tuna and Shark are being fished, those in charge are finally stepping up their game! The ICCAT (International Commission for the Conservation of Atlantic Tunas) are going to start monitoring Bluefin Tuna (Thunnus thynnus) using a new method - an "electronic catch documentation scheme". The scheme is thought to be a way of enforcing fisheries to be honest about their catches. It was discovered that last year and extra 140% of Bluefin tuna was sold throughout the world than was actually declared, a worrying statistic. The ICCAT hope that this new electronic method will reduce the amount of illegal fish entering the market.
The announcement came during a meeting in Turkey, held by government officials. During the meeting, Silky sharks (Carcharhinus falciformis) were also given extra protection and a minimum legal size for Swordfish (Xiphias gladius) was also decided. It was announced that in 2013, the future of Swordfish will be bought into central focus.
meetings such as these are a positive outlook for our seas. With constant bad news and fear shrouding our oceans, it is good to hear that finally important steps are being taken. Though these steps may be small, it's a start at least....
