Red List highlights threat to our oceans

Red List highlights threat to our oceans

"The release of the Red List of threatened and critically endangered species by the World Conservation Union (IUCN) clearly highlights the growing threat to our oceans," said Australian Greens fisheries spokesperson Senator Rachel Siewert today.

The report shows that marine species are at as much at risk of extinction as their land-based counterparts.

"Urgent action is needed to greatly improve management practices and implement conservation measures, including agreed non-fishing areas, enforced mesh-size regulations and international catch limits, before it is too late," said Senator Siewert.

World shark populations are facing severe threats, with many shark and ray species being added to the critically endangered list. This is of particular concern to Australia's northern shark fisheries where illegal fishing for shark fin is putting huge pressure on shark populations.

"Australia needs to do more to protect our marine species, particularly our sharks," said Senator Siewert.

"The rapid growth of deep sea industrial fishing is a major threat to the biodiversity and sustainability of the denizens of the deep, about which science still knows very little."

"However, the world still has a chance to do something about this if we act now. This is an area where Australia can show real leadership," she said.

"The Australian Government should support international calls for an immediate moratorium on deep sea fishing until adequate international regulation and protection can be put in place."

"A moratorium would allow time for the research and international diplomacy needed to put these protective measures in place," said
Senator Siewert.

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