Illegal Shark Fins Seized in Brazil: Protecting Endangered Species. 29 tonnes of shark fins recovered.

 The recent seizure of nearly 29 tonnes of illegal shark fins in Brazil is thought to be the largest such confiscation ever. Ibama, the environment protection agency, estimated around 10,000 blue sharks and shortfin mako sharks had been killed for the fins. Ibama’s operation targeted two export companies, with investigations ongoing into other suspects. It was found that the firms had illegally used permits for other species to acquire the haul. Shark fishing is banned in Brazil, and Ibama’s director Jair Schmitt hoped the seizure would symbolize the return of Ibama to the protection of the marine environment and the illegal fish trade in the country. The majority of the fins were found at a single exporting company in Santa Catarina, with the remainder seized at Sao Paulo International Airport from a second company. Sea Shepherd Brazil, a marine conservation organisation, called for the Brazilian government to ban shark fin trade and imports of shark meat. They believe this would be beneficial in protecting the species, due to the indiscriminate fishing causing a drastic reduction in shark populations worldwide. The animal parts can fetch up to $1,000 a kilogram in Asia, and the delicacy is often seen as a sign of wealth. The blue shark and shortfin mako shark, were added to Brazil’s endangered species list last month. With two of the most trafficked species now added to the endangered species list in Brazil, it is hoped that the government will take action to protect these creatures. Illegal fish trade is a rampant exercise which demands international action and support in order to achieve genuine conservation of species. The Government at national levels should also crack down upon the traffickers but given the transnational nature of the business the role of the international community is a must.