Vaquita (Phocoena sinus): The World's Most Endangered Marine Mammal Facing Extinction

Vaquita-

• Vaquita (Phocoena sinus) is a small porpoise endemic to the northern Gulf of California, also called the Sea of Cortez, in Mexico. 
• It is regarded as the world’s most endangered marine mammal, with fewer than 20 individuals believed to survive in the wild; some recent estimates suggest the number may be close to 10. 
• The species has suffered a catastrophic decline from an estimated population of about 567 in 1997.
• Its principal threat is accidental entanglement in gillnets, particularly those illegally deployed to catch totoaba, an endangered fish whose swim bladder is highly valued in illegal international trade. 
• Vaquitas trapped in such nets cannot reach the surface to breathe and consequently drown. Continued illegal gillnet use has caused the population to decline by more than 98% since 2011. 
• Mexico has introduced restrictions and permanent bans on most gillnet fishing in the vaquita’s habitat, but enforcement remains a major challenge. Scientists note that surviving vaquitas are still reproducing and remain genetically viable, indicating that recovery is possible if gillnet mortality is eliminated.

PRELIMS MCQ

Q. With reference to the Vaquita (Phocoena sinus), consider the following statements:

1. It is a small porpoise endemic to the northern Gulf of California in Mexico.

2. Its major threat is accidental entanglement in gillnets used particularly for illegal totoaba fishing.

3. The totoaba is primarily hunted for its swim bladder, which is traded illegally.

4. Vaquita populations have shown a significant recovery following the complete elimination of gillnet fishing.

Which of the statements given above are correct?

(A) 1 and 2 only

(B) 1, 2 and 3 only

(C) 2, 3 and 4 only

(D) 1, 2, 3 and 4

Answer: (B)

Explanation: Statements 1, 2 and 3 are correct. Vaquita is endemic to Mexico’s northern Gulf of California and is critically threatened by gillnet entanglement, especially from illegal totoaba fishing. Statement 4 is incorrect because illegal gillnet use continues and the vaquita population remains extremely low, although surviving individuals are still reproducing and retain genetic viability.