Vaquita.tv

“VAQUITA – The Search for the Desert Porpoise” investigates a complex issue that is increasing in frequency worldwide as demand for seafood continues to rise – the interaction between humans and endangered marine species.

In this instance, the demand for shrimp and the fishing method used to catch it, is causing the rapid decline of the world’s smallest cetacean in the only place it is found. Not only are the implications dire for this little porpoise if measures to end the fishery are not taken in time, but putting an end to the very fishery that has sustained the upper Gulf community for generations could spell disaster for the local people.

The documentary videos explore the problem between people and a critically endangered mammal, and weather plans to save the vaquita can be implemented, without causing fishermen and their families to suffer as a consequence.

The people of the upper Gulf rely on the natural resource of plentiful shrimp to feed their families and make a living driven primarily by a strong US market where shrimp is the most popular seafood. Scientists explain how vaquita are inadvertently killed in nets set for shrimp, and how they are likely to be affected into the future if current rates of entanglements continue. Numerous leading experts are interviewed from both Mexico and the United States, while multiple opinions help the viewer gain a deep insight into the issue from a range of perspectives.

A government sponsored fisheries buy-out program is currently in progress, and alternative fishing gears are being trialed, but are either of these plans working?

Chris Johnson paints a complex but scientifically credible and realistic picture of the future for the vaquita if nothing changes, and what extinction would mean. The comprehensive conclusion discusses management measures and potential opportunities to act, while clearly outlining the consequences of inaction for the desert porpoise.