Protecting Colombia’s Marine Species: The Battle of Malpelo Island
By David Salazar, Agence France-Presse
A lone catamaran named “Silky” patrols the waters around the remote island of Malpelo, a sanctuary for endangered marine species in the Colombian Pacific. Without weapons or backup, environmentalists on board shoo away illegal fishing boats, rescue trapped sharks, and protect the Malpelo Fauna and Flora Sanctuary from exploitation.
Since 2018, the crew has successfully scared away intruder vessels, rescued over 500 animals, and confiscated miles of fishing line. The foundation claims their efforts have led to no fishing boats spotted near Malpelo since December. With the upcoming UN COP16 biodiversity conference in Colombia, the protection of hammerhead sharks, whale sharks, and other endangered species in the Pacific is crucial.
However, challenges remain as neighboring countries exploit the bountiful waters of the sanctuary. The Colombian Navy plays a crucial role in enforcing fishing laws, arresting individuals found with valuable hauls of endangered species.
Despite recent policy reversals on shark fishing, conservationists and environmentalists continue to strive for the protection of Colombia’s marine resources. The battle for Malpelo Island and its unique ecosystem is ongoing, as both activists and authorities work to safeguard the rich biodiversity of the Colombian Pacific.