Eels in Trouble: Why Global Trade Rules Failed to Save Them

Eels, those slippery and ancient creatures, are in big trouble. They are not just creepy-crawly things that make some people squirm. They are also a big deal in the world of sushi and seafood. But their numbers are dropping fast. Since the 1980s, some eel species have seen their populations shrink by over 90%. Why? Blame it on dams, pollution, climate change, and overfishing. These factors have pushed eels to the brink.

A Meeting with High Stakes

Recently, there was a big meeting in Uzbekistan. The goal? To decide if new trade rules could help save eels from disappearing forever. The Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES) was the group in charge. But guess what? The vote didn't go through. Many countries, especially those where eel is a big business like the U.S., China, and Japan, said no to more restrictions.

Why Eels Matter

So, why are eels so important? Well, they are a key ingredient in sushi, known as unagi in Japan. They have been part of Japanese culture for thousands of years. But it's not just about food. Eels are also important for the health of rivers and streams. They are what scientists call an "indicator species." This means their well-being tells us a lot about the environment.

The Proposed Rules

The proposed rules would have made it harder to trade eels. Exporters would need permits, and scientists would have to make sure the trade wouldn't hurt eel populations. But not everyone was on board. Some groups argued that national laws are enough to protect eels. They also said that the new rules might not stop illegal trading.

The Conservationists' Plea

Conservationists, however, believe that action is needed now. They argue that the high demand for eels makes it even more important to have strict trade rules. Illegal trade is just one part of the problem, but tackling it could give eels a fighting chance. It's not about stopping fishing altogether. It's about making the industry more responsible.