The International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) has released a list of five types of tuna as endangered species which was strongly criticized by the Spanish fishing industry bodies. The IUCN had demanded “urgent further protection” for five tuna species included in its “red list”. The five species are:
1) Southern bluefin tuna: critically endangered
2) Atlantic bluefin tuna: endangered
3) Bigeye tuna: vulnerable
4) Yellowfin tuna: almost threatened
5) Bonito: almost threatened
Spanish fishing industry was quick to dispute the IUCN’s claims. Spanish Fisheries Confederation (Cepesca) secretary-general Javier Garat lamented the “apocalyptic messages” on the state of fish stocks and in particular the five species of tuna. Juan Manuel Vieites, the secretary-general of the National Association of Manufacturers of Canned Fish and Shellfish (Anfaco-Cecopesca), said that consumers can “have a complete guarantee” that Spanish cans are prepared with sustainably caught fishing resources.
As per IUCN study it has warned that the most threatened species have higher economic value. Maria José Juan Jordá, the study’s co-author, informed that the situation is “worrying” for the five tuna species mentioned. Jordá said that there is urgent need of solution otherwise it would have serious economic consequences. He stressed on the reduction of the size of the tuna-fishing fleet and the fishing season.
