Parrotfish Fishing to be Prohibited in the Caribbean

Two major environmental protection orders have been announced by the government of Antigua and Barbuda. One of these orders is to ban the fishing of parrotfish, and the other is to prohibit sand export from the islands. The overall reason for the bans is to protect the fragile ecosystem of the 62 square miles of land and sea life. 

The government's plan to protect these fish is all about keeping the natural sand production going, which is super important for the island’s beaches and coastline. They’re even considering banning sand exports because recent studies have shown just how much damage large-scale sand removal has done to Barbuda’s ecosystem over the years. 

“An environmental expert gave an assessment on the quantum of sand removed over the past 50 years and the impossibility of continuing for even a short period; the expert addressed the impact of sand removal on fresh water aquafers (brackish water), sand dunes as high as 12 to 14 ft., and the harm to coral reefs (that reduce wave energy during storms and ground swells,” Cabinet reports. 

The Part Parrotfish and the Sand Benefit the Islands 

Parrotfish play a huge role in maintaining healthy coral reefs because they feed on algae that can smother corals. Munching on these algae helps keep the reefs vibrant and alive, protecting the coastline from erosion. This is why banning parrotfish fishing isn’t just about saving the species; it’s also about preserving the natural balance that supports the island’s beaches and marine life. Without these fish, coral reefs could decline, leading to weaker coastal defenses and more significant damage during storms and rough seas. 

Additionally, with sand removal already causing major disruptions, the government’s move to halt exports aims to prevent further degradation. Together, these measures show a proactive approach to safeguarding the island’s natural resources and ensuring its resilience against environmental changes. 

CITED: caribbean.loopnews.com, nationalgeographic.com