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Course:CONS200/2025FL1/The Conservation of the Vaquita Marina in the Gulf of California

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The Conservation of the Vaquita Marin

The vaquita (Phocoena sinus) is a species of porpoise. The vaquita is the smallest species of cetacean known as of the current day. The Phocoena genus is made up of four species of cetaceans: the spectacled porpoise, harbour porpoise, Burmeister’s porpoise, and the vaquita[1]. The vaquita is most closely related to the Burmeister’s porpoise. It is assumed that the ancestor of the vaquita and the Burmeister’s porpoise migrated north during the Pleistocene, 2.5 million years ago. The vaquita was first identified in 1958 by zoologists Kenneth S. Norris and William N. McFarland. There is evidence that the population was never large, according to genetic scientists. According to surveys from 1997, an estimated 567 individuals were remaining in the Gulf, much higher than today. The vaquita is a critically endangered species; it is estimated that only 20 individuals remain in the wild[2].

Appearance and habitat

The vaquita has a name fitting for its size, as in Spanish, vaquita means “little cow”[3]. The cetacean mostly has a grayish blue coloration covering the bottom and mid-portion of its body, and a black coat covering its top, forehead, eyes and tail. Like most saltwater mammals, its coloration is a physiological adaptation to its environment, making it difficult to spot from below and above, as the respective sides of its body blend in with the sky and ocean surface. The vaquita is very plump in shape, as its mid-section is much thicker than the tips of its body.

The vaquita is endemic to the Gulf of California in Baja California, Mexico. It remains in waters up to 150 m deep. The Gulf of California has a notoriously rich level of biodiversity. It supports a wide range of endemic and migratory species, such as humpback whales, California gray whale, manta ray, and leatherback sea turtles. The ecosystem that the vaquita lives in is so bountiful, which is one of the reasons for its critically endangered status[2].

Habitat range of the Vaquita

Life expectancy, behaviour, and trophic levels

Vaquitas are most commonly spotted alone or in pairs, but have, according to reports, been seen in groups of up to 10 individuals. As the species has few surviving individuals studied, little is known about their behaviour. It is estimated that most sexually mature at 3–6 years of age, and live on average 20 years[2]. Researchers assume that vaquitas are polygynous animals, meaning the males compete amongst other males for females. Females after reproduction remain pregnant for 10–11 months, and nurse their calves for anywhere from 6–8 months. Though the raising process is long, some scientists think that some have offspring on an annual basis[4]. The vaquita can thrive under a plethora of conditions in its environment, making it a generalist. It can eat groundfish, crustaceans, squids, and most kinds of fish. Although the primary threat to their species is not their predators, they do have some in their habitat. Some of the species able to feed on the vaquita include great white sharks, hammerhead sharks, and killer whales, which have all been seen in the vaquita’s habitat[5].

Causes of decline

Illegal gillnetting

Visual of Gillnetting

The vaquita's population has declining birth rates and rising mortality rates. They are most commonly found dead in illegal gillnets meant for catching totoaba (Totoaba macdonaldi)[6]. Totoaba are one of the vaquita's main sources of food, and are also considered a threatened species. They are highly priced for their swim bladders, which are used in Chinese cuisine[7]. Documented mortality of the vaquita in gillnetting has been occurring for several decades, since the 1950s at least[8]. The local government has put forth various efforts to try and conserve the vaquita, both in the wild and in captivity[9]. In the 1990s, although there were many attempts to ban totoaba fisheries and the use of large-mesh gillnets, poachers found loopholes, which included using smaller-mesh gillnets, which were also shown to trap vaquitas[8]. Any vaquitas put in captivity have died within a short amount of time due to the stressful change in environment.

Habitat degradation

The upper Gulf of California faces habitat degradation from various sources, including habitat loss, changes in water flow, and pollution from human-related activities, such as the use of pesticides. Changes in water flow are mostly from new infrastructure, such as dams[3]. These changes affect the vaquita’s habitat, and these effects are further intensified by the fact that their habitats are already extremely restricted. Changes in temperature conditions in the ocean can also alter their habitat and the population of their prey. These patterns will negatively impact their feeding patterns and health, potentially leading to decreased reproduction and survival.

Current efforts and conservation actions

Gillnet ban and legal protection

Several ongoing conservation actions have been implemented to protect the remaining population of the vaquita marina in the Gulf of California. In 2017, the Mexican government declared a permanent ban on the use of gillnet within the vaquita's habitat, recognizing that entaglement in fishing gear is the leading cause of mortality for the species.[10] The ban was introduced as part of a broader marine protection policy that aimed to reduce illegal fishing activites, particularly those targeting the endangered totoba fish. Despite the establishment of these legal frameworks, enforcement has proven to be extremely difficult. The vastness of the Gulf, limited surveillance resources, and economic dependence of local communities on fishing have all contributed to the continued use of gillnets.[11]

National and NGO enforcement efforts

To strengthen conservation enforcement, the Mexican government has collaborated with several national and international organizations. Notably, the Sea Shepherd Conservation Society has played a crucial role in patrolling the Upper Gulf of California. Their ships and crews, operating in cooperation with the Mexican Navy, have removed thousands of illegal gillnets and monitored vaquita habitats to reduce direct threats. These joint operations represent one of the few successful examples of active, on the ground protection, although the number of illegal nets recovered each year still highlights the persistence of the problem.

International cooperation

International cooperation has also been instrumental. Organizations such as the World Wildlife Fund (WWF) and Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species (CITES) have worked with Mexico to address both local and global dimensions of the vaquita crisis.[12] Through diplomatic channels and trade regulations, these organizations have pressured countries involved in the illicit totoaba trade particularly those in East Asia, where totoaba swim bladders are sold as luxury goods to strengthen import restrictions and improve law-enforcement collaboration. The global scope of this illegal trade underscores that saving the vaquita requires not only regional action but also international coordination.

Scientific and technological initiatives

Scientific and technological initiatives have complemented these enforcement efforts. Environmental researchers are using drones, sonar, and acoustic monitoring devices to locate and track vaquita individuals more effectively. These technologies help scientists estimate the remaining population and identify high risk areas where illegal fishing activity overlaps with vaquita habitats. Moreover, environmental education programs have been introduced in local fishing communities, aiming to promote awareness about sustainable fishing practices and the ecological importance of preserving biodiversity in the Gulf of California.

Images of hunting vaquitas

Ongoing challenges

Nevertheless, these coordinated actions have achieved only limited success. Economic pressures and weak law enforcement continue to undermine conservation progress. Illegal fishing of Totoaba persists because its swim bladder retains high value on the international black market.[13] The profits from totoaba trafficking often outweigh the risks of being caught, drawing both local fishermen and organized criminal networks into the trade. While government agencies and NGOs have made significant efforts to deter these activities, corruption and lack of consistent funding remain obstacles.

Community-based solutions and prospects

Despite these challenges, conservation organizations are continuing to work toward preventing the species from disappearing completely. New proposals focus on community based management strategies that provide fishermen with alternative livelihoods, such as ecotourism and sustainable aquaculture. These initiatives aim to reduce the financial incentive for illegal fishing while maintaining the economic stability of the local population. The survival of the vaquita marina ultimately depends on maintaining this delicate balance between ecological preservation and social justice. Although progress has been slow, the ongoing collaboration between government agencies, scientists, NGOs, and international institutions represents a hopeful step forward in the long struggle to save one of the world’s most endangered marine mammals.

Solutions to conservational inefficiencies

Strengthening Enforcement and Monitoring

One of the main obstacles we face to vaquita conservation is the gap between protection and enforcement in the Upper Gulf of California. The Mexican government has established gillnet bans and broadened protected areas. However, illegal gillnetting persists because of a lack of resources to monitor such a large area[14]. NGOs such as the Sea Shepherd Conservation Society have assisted in addressing this issue by patrolling vaquita habitat and removing thousands of prohibited nets. This significantly reduced the presence of illegal fishing gear[15]. Continued collaboration and investment in surveillance technologies such as drones, acoustic sensors, and satellite monitoring will greatly improve the ability to detect and respond to illegal activity quickly[14]. Change in the severity of the penalties for totoaba trafficking and persecution would also help decrease the incentive for poaching[16].

Reducing Local Economic Dependence on Gillnet Fisheries

Many of the conservation inefficiencies we face stem from economic pressures on local fishers. They often rely on gillnet-based fishers as a main income source to support their families. Even when regulations are clear, financial hardship can sometimes push communities toward illegal practices to sustain themselves[16]. Therefore, Conservation strategies that will be implemented must include viable economic alternatives. Gear-exchange programs that replace gillnets with vaquita-safe fishing gear have been proven to be effective, but require much more financial support and long-term stability[17]. More sustainable alternatives include regulated aquafarming and eco-friendly marine farming, which can provide sustainable income without harming vaquita habitats[16]. Balancing the economic opportunities with conservation goals is crucial for long-term collaboration.

Improving Community Engagement and Co-Management

A major weakness past conservation efforts faced was the limited involvement of the local communities in designing a management strategy. Policies that have been implemented without collaboration with the community create mistrust and low compliance[16]. Co-management systems where local fishers, government agencies, and NGOs participate together in planning have been shown to increase adherence to regulations[17]. Education and outreach programs like the WWF and the Porpoise Conservation Society help reinforce the ecological significance of the vaquita. This strengthens long-term conservation within communities and creates trust[17]. When the local community understands and is part of the conservation measures, they are more likely to participate and enforce sustainable fishing practices.

Addressing International Trade Drivers

The decline of the vaquita is closely related to the illegal international trade of totoaba swim ladders. Today, they remain highly valued in black markets in East Asia[16]. This demand originates outside Mexico, requiring international collaboration. Partner countries have increased monitoring at ports, tightened wildlife trade laws, and intelligence between law enforcement agencies to track trafficking networks[16]. Stronger repercussions for importers and enhanced customs inspections will further reduce the profitability of this trade. By making it difficult for traffickers and decreasing demand, illegal gillnetting will be significantly reduced in the Gulf of California.

Enhancing Scientific Research and Adaptive Management

Another inefficiency issue is the lack of up-to-date scientific knowledge of the remaining vaquita population. Scientific researchers use drones, acoustic monitoring, and surveys from recent sightings to estimate population size and track distribution patterns. However, these efforts need continued funding and technological development[14]. Improved scientific data support an adaptive management approach, which allows conservation strategies to be continuously updated in response. For example, identifying changing migration patterns or areas where increased illegal fishing occurs can help enforcement agencies to adjust protective zones. Combining ecological data with social and economic research also allows policymakers to make better future management decisions[18].

Building Long-Term, Multi-Level Conservation Frameworks

Given that the vaquita’s decline is driven by many factors, long-term conservation requires coordinated strategies[14]. Sustainable funding and partnerships between Mexico, NGOS, and global conservation organisations are essential to reverse the decline[16]. Permanent research stations, expanding monitoring networks, and support from political administrations would help protect the vaquita species. Long-term frameworks that combine ecological, social, and economic goals will provide the strongest solution to the ongoing inefficiencies and prevent the extinction of the vaquita marina.

Conclusion

The conservation of the vaquita marina stands as one of the most urgent environmental challenges of our time. As the smallest and most endangered cetacean on Earth, the vaquita symbolizes both the fragility of marine ecosystems and the consequences of unsustainable human activity. Despite decades of research and a growing global awareness of its plight, the species continues to face immense pressure from illegal fishing practices, habitat degradation, and international demand for totoaba products. The efforts made by scientists, conservation groups, and government agencies have shown that meaningful progress is possible, yet the continued decline of the population reveals how complex and interconnected the issue truly is.

A successful path forward must integrate strong enforcement, scientific innovation, and community centered solutions. While legal protections and gillnet bans form the foundation of conservation policy, these measures cannot succeed without consistent enforcement and the active support of local communities whose livelihoods depend on the Gulf. Collaborative management that empowers fishers, promotes sustainable economic alternatives, and builds trust between residents and authorities is essential for long term success. Equally important is the role of international cooperation. Since the illegal trade of totoaba swim bladders extends beyond Mexico, coordinated global action is needed to reduce market demand and dismantle trafficking networks.

Continued investment in research and monitoring will further strengthen conservation strategies by providing accurate information about the remaining population and the changing conditions of the Gulf of California. Advanced technologies offer promising tools for locating individuals, identifying high risk areas, and guiding future policy decisions. Ultimately, the survival of the vaquita marina depends on the collective actions of governments, conservation organizations, scientists, and communities. Although the challenges are significant, the ongoing commitment to preserve this rare species reflects a broader responsibility to protect the biodiversity of our oceans. By addressing ecological, social, and economic factors together, there remains hope that the vaquita can be saved from extinction.

References

  1. ↑ "Vaquita genus". PBDB Taxon. 2016. Retrieved 2 November 2025. Explicit use of et al. in: |first= (help); |first= missing |last= (help)
  2. ↑ 2.0 2.1 2.2 Rojas-Bracho, L. (2 March, 2022). "Vaquita". IUCN Redlist. Retrieved 2 November 2025. Check date values in: |date= (help)
  3. ↑ 3.0 3.1 "Vaquitas". ifaw. 2025. Retrieved 2 November 2025.
  4. ↑ Taylor, Barbara L. (2019). "Likely annual calving in the vaquita,Phocoena sinus: A new hope?". National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration. Retrieved 2 November 2025.
  5. ↑ "Do vaquitas have any natural predators?". Porpoise Conservation Society. Retrieved 2 November 2025.
  6. ↑ del Monte-Luna, P. (2025). "Gillnets and extinction: the Vaquita's last stand". Marine Mammal Research Unit. Retrieved 2 November, 2025. Check date values in: |access-date= (help)
  7. ↑ Nowell, Kristin; et al. (2022). ""Vaquita-safe" fishing for conservation and livelihoods in Mexico" (PDF). Cites. Retrieved 2 November 2025. Explicit use of et al. in: |first= (help)
  8. ↑ 8.0 8.1 D'agrosa, Cateria; et al. (2000). Conservation Biology: Volume 14, Issue 4. Oxford, United Kingdom: Society of Conservation Biology. pp. 1110–1119. ISBN 0888-8892 Check |isbn= value: length (help). Explicit use of et al. in: |first= (help)
  9. ↑ Strout, Nathan (13 January, 2025). "Mexican government claims it has completed goals for protecting endangered vaquita and totoaba". SeafoodSource. Retrieved 2 November 2025. Check date values in: |date= (help)
  10. ↑ Associated, Press (March 3, 2023). "Mexico hopes to avoid sanctions on vaquita's near extinction". AP News. Retrieved Dec 7 2025. Check date values in: |access-date= (help)
  11. ↑ Sea Shepherd Conservation Society (October 5, 2023). "Operation Milagro Reduces Illegal Fishing Activity in Vaquita Habitat by 79%". Sea Shepherd. Retrieved December 7, 2025.
  12. ↑ WWF (June 12, 2024). "Facts, Habitat and Conservation Efforts". World Wildlife Fund. Retrieved Dec 7 2025. Check date values in: |access-date= (help)
  13. ↑ Boilevin V (01 Sep 2023). "Addressing Illegal Transnational Trade of Totoaba and Its Role in the Possible Extinction of the Vaquita". Taylor & Francis. Retrieved Dec 07 2025. Check date values in: |access-date=, |date= (help)
  14. ↑ 14.0 14.1 14.2 14.3 "Vaquita". NOAA Fisheries. 2025. Retrieved 2 November, 2025. Check date values in: |access-date= (help)
  15. ↑ "Sea Shepherd Removes over 1000 Pieces of Illegal Fishing Gear from Vaquita Habitat". Sea Sheperd. 31 December, 2025. Retrieved 17 November 2025. Check date values in: |date= (help)
  16. ↑ 16.0 16.1 16.2 16.3 16.4 16.5 16.6 "Vaquita". World Wildlife. Retrieved 5 November 2025.
  17. ↑ 17.0 17.1 17.2 "Save the Vaquita". Porpoise Conservation Society. 2023. Retrieved 5 November 2025.
  18. ↑ "Vaquita". Consortium for Wildlife Bycatch Reduction. 2022. Retrieved 5 November 2025.


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