A new study reveals a vast network of illegal trade in manta and devil rays, despite international protections. The demand for their meat and gill plates fuels this unsustainable trade, with Asia and Africa as key hubs.
Manta and devil rays are, arguably, some of the most iconic marine species in the world. Yet, despite their protected status under international agreements like The Manta Trust that exposes the alarming scale of exploitation these species face, driven by demand for their meat and gill plates. The findings, published today, are based on expert surveys, interviews, and an extensive analysis of trade and fisheries data across 75 countries.
And unfortunately, the study reveals a vast global network of mobulid (manta and devil ray) exploitation. “Manta and devil rays are among the most iconic and legislatively protected marine species, yet they remain incredibly vulnerable to overfishing,” said Dr. Guy Stevens, CEO and Co-Founder of The Manta Trust. “After over a decade of global protections under CITES, it is disheartening to see unsustainable trade in these species not only continuing but increasing. Stronger action, including increased enforcement and international cooperation, is urgently needed to protect these magnificent creatures.Mobulids are landed in 43 countries, with their meat consumed in at least 35 and gill plates exported from 14. Major trade routes are concentrated in Asia and Africa, with Myanmar, Sri Lanka, Bangladesh, India, and Indonesia identified as high-priority countries for conservation action. Despite nearly a decade of international protections under CITES Appendix II, and national measures in over 40 countries, trade in mobulids persists at unsustainable levels. While Mobulid meat is predominantly consumed locally (though some trade does occur between countries in South America, Africa, and Asia), the highly sought after gill plates are primarily traded internationally. Key export hubs in Africa and Asia supply markets in mainland China and Hong Kong, with prices for gill plates (which are used in traditional Chinese medicine and as a delicacy in Asia) fetching up to USD $1,260 per kilogram. The trade routes are complex, linking coastal landing sites to global markets via land, sea, and air
OVERFISHING TRAFFICKING CONSERVATION MANTA RAYS DEVIL RAYS
United States Latest News, United States Headlines
Similar News:You can also read news stories similar to this one that we have collected from other news sources.
How climate change threatens this iconic Florida birdA new analysis of data from a long-term study finds that warmer winters driven by climate change reduced the number of offspring raised annually by the federally threatened Florida scrub-jay by 25% since 1981.
Read more »
Climate change threatens global food supply: Scientists call for urgent actionAs climate change accelerates, scientists are sounding the alarm about its potentially devastating impact on the world's food supply. Researchers warn that without rapid changes to how we develop climate-resilient crops, we could face widespread food shortages leading to famine, mass migration, and global instability.
Read more »
Rolling Stones' new perfume whiffs of exploitationEither the band has always dreamed of having their own perfume and for some reason waited until they were 80 to give it a bash, or (almost equally unlikely), they would like some more money.
Read more »
Shaktoolik man charged with cyberstalking, child exploitationA Shaktoolik man has been charged with cyberstalking adults and children, and sexually exploiting children.
Read more »
Shaktoolik Man Sentenced for Cyberstalking and Sexual Exploitation of ChildrenA 22-year-old man from Shaktoolik, Alaska, has been charged with cyberstalking adults and children and sexually exploiting minors to produce child sexual abuse material. Matthew Jackson allegedly committed these offenses between December 2021 and July 2023, and was arrested on November 26. He faces up to life in prison if convicted.
Read more »
VCHA Member KG Files Lawsuit Against JYP USA Alleging Exploitation: Everything You Need to KnowWhat's going on with VCHA? Here's what's happening after VCHA member KG filed a lawsuit against JYP USA with serious allegations.
Read more »