The oceans and freshwater ecosystems They are home to an astonishing variety of life, often unknown to the general public. However, every year, a growing number of these aquatic species face the imminent threat of extinction due to human activities and environmental changes. Despite having some of the most fascinating and vital creatures for the planet's balance, many aquatic animals struggle to survive in the face of pressure from overfishing, pollution, habitat destruction, and the impact of climate change. For more information on endangered marine species, you can visit our article on the largest animals in the world.
We are increasingly aware of the importance of protecting the marine biodiversity and freshwater ecosystems, as these ecosystems not only provide refuge for thousands of species, but also support essential human activities, such as fishing, tourism, and climate regulation. Through clear and detailed information, we can better understand the current status of endangered species, recognize the threats they face, and discover how we can contribute to their conservation. Furthermore, the protection of aquatic ecosystems is also closely linked to the health of the hydrosphere.
Why are aquatic animals in danger of extinction?
The decline in aquatic animal populations is due to a combination of natural and, above all, human factorsAmong those primarily responsible for this crisis are:
- overfishing: The intensive and often unregulated harvesting of fish and other marine organisms drastically reduces populations, exceeding their natural recovery capacity.
- ContaminationPlastic waste, industrial chemicals, heavy metals, and oil spills cause serious harm to aquatic fauna, from direct poisoning to the disruption of reproductive cycles.
- Destruction and fragmentation of habitatsActivities such as dredging, coastal development, dam construction, and mangrove clearance alter or eliminate vital breeding and feeding areas for many species.
- Climate ChangeRising water temperatures, ocean acidification, and altered currents and weather patterns are negatively impacting aquatic environments and their species.
- Bycatch and ghost netsMany species are caught in abandoned fishing gear or in nets used to catch other commercially valuable species.
- Introduction of invasive species: Some non-native animals displace or prey on original species, altering the balance of ecosystems.
According to recent data from the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN), 28% of the species evaluated are in danger of extinction, with the alarm being focused especially on the amphibians (41%), sharks and rays (37%), coral reefs (36%), mammals (27%), reptiles (21%), and birds (13%). These figures reflect an unprecedented crisis that demands a decisive response, both individually and collectively.
The importance of protecting threatened aquatic fauna
The Aquatic animals do not exist in isolation; they are part of complex food and ecological webs. Their disappearance triggers a domino effect that can lead to the extinction of other species and the instability of entire ecosystems. For example, if a keystone species like krill were to disappear, iconic species like whales and penguins would be directly affected, as they depend on it for food.
The balance of the seas is fragile. If a species severely declines, predators or prey can be affected, disrupting the food chain and, in the worst case, causing the loss of entire habitats such as coral reefs and seagrass meadows. Marine biodiversity is also affected. It is essential for the world's food supply and the economic and social well-being of many coastal communities. To better understand how aquatic ecosystems sustain the planet, we invite you to consult aquatic ecosystems.
The most endangered aquatic species on the planet
Within the vast group of endangered animals, some species have become emblematic due to their critical condition and the media impact of efforts to save them. Below, you'll learn in detail about some of the most relevant species, as well as facts about their situation:
- Vaquita marina (Phocoena sinus)Considered the rarest cetacean in the world, the vaquita marina lives exclusively in the Gulf of California and it is estimated that there are only a few left less than 10 copiesIts greatest threat is illegal fishing nets used to capture totoaba, which has led to its imminent risk of extinction.
- Loggerhead sea turtle (Caretta caretta)It is the most common sea turtle in Spanish waters and one of the most endangered globally. Fishing gear, pollution, the destruction of nesting beaches, and artificial lighting represent serious threats to its populations.
- Hawksbill turtle (Eretmochelys imbricata): It is notable for its elongated shell and imbricated scutes. Habitat loss, egg poaching, and hunting for its shell have drastically reduced its numbers, especially in tropical and subtropical areas.
- Napoleon fish (Cheilinus undulatus)This large, colorful fish from the Indian and Pacific Oceans is highly sought after for its meat, which has led to overfishing and alarmingly reduced its populations.
- Sunfish (Mola mola)It is the largest bony fish, reaching up to 2.300 kg. Its exposure at the surface makes it easy to catch and, combined with pollution, makes it vulnerable.
- Sea angel (Clione Limacine)A transparent and delicate mollusk, essential to the diet of birds and cetaceans. Ocean acidification weakens its shell and threatens its survival.
- The coralAlthough many don't consider it an animal, coral is essential for marine life. Rising sea temperatures cause the bleaching and death of large areas of reefs, as is happening in Australia's Great Barrier Reef, where more than a third is already dead or severely bleached. To learn more about the importance of these ecosystems, you can visit invertebrate animals.
- Harbor porpoiseThis small cetacean of the North Atlantic is in serious decline due to accidental fishing and pollution.
- Bottlenose dolphin: Widely distributed, but threatened locally by overfishing and marine degradation.
- fin whaleOne of the largest whales, threatened by historical hunting, pollution, and collisions with vessels.
- Hammerhead shark: Its iconic silhouette is becoming increasingly rare due to the persecution of its highly prized fins.
- Kemp's ridley sea turtle: It is the smallest sea turtle, affected by the destruction of its nesting areas and pollution.
- caribbean manateeThis peaceful mammal, key to maintaining the seabed, is suffering from habitat loss and collisions with vessels.
- Atlantic bluefin tunaIts meat is highly prized, especially in the Japanese market, which has caused a sharp decline due to overfishing.
- Elkhorn coral: It is one of the corals most affected by climate change, as mass bleaching destroys the reefs where thousands of marine species grow and reproduce.
- Mediterranean monk seal (monachus monachus): Formerly common along the Mediterranean coast, its population is now around a few hundred individuals due to hunting, habitat loss and human disturbance.
Situation of marine species in Spain
Spain stands out for its high marine biodiversity in Europe, more than 10.000 species in its waters. However, it is experiencing an increase in at-risk animals, facing challenges such as:
- Monk sealCurrently in small colonies in the eastern Mediterranean and the African Atlantic coast, with threats from hunting and habitat destruction, although with some recent recovery efforts.
- Loggerhead turtleThe most common species in Spanish waters, especially the Alboran Sea, the Balearic Islands, and the Canary Islands. Juveniles find these areas a favorable habitat, but coastal development and fishing gear continue to pose hazards.
- Bottlenose dolphin and harbor porpoise: They are present on Spanish coasts but are affected by accidental catches and reduced food availability.
- Hawksbill turtleAlthough mainly found in warm waters, it can occasionally be seen on the Spanish Mediterranean coast.
- Ferruginous limpet: It stands out for its large size and thickness, lives in intertidal zones and is vulnerable to collection and contamination.
- fin whale: Present in the Mediterranean, characterized by its size and asymmetrical coloration on the lower jaw, with irregular presence in Spanish seas.
Other aquatic species threatened worldwide
The list of endangered marine animals continues to grow, including species such as:
- Blue whale: The largest on the planet, hunted for its fat and meat in the past.
- Marine Nutrin: Affected by hunting and marine pollution.
- Long-headed eagle ray and giant manta ray: Victims of fishing and habitat damage.
- Hector's dolphin and Irrawaddy river dolphin: Highly localized and seriously threatened by river disturbances and accidental fishing.
- Whale shark and ray shark: In decline due to demand for fins and bycatch.
- Umbrella octopus, narrow-toothed octopus, and guitarfish: Threatened by overexploitation and deterioration of the marine environment.
- Seahorse and sea cucumber: Highly sought after in aquariophily and traditional medicine, with significant population declines.
- European and Japanese eel: Its migratory cycle is altered by pollution, dams and overfishing.
- Poisonous cone snail and dugong: Endangered by habitat destruction.
- Atlantic Puffin and Wandering Albatross: Affected by pollution and climate change.
Main threats to the survival of aquatic species
The most serious threats these beings face are:
- Intensive and accidental fishingTargeted and incidental capture has reduced populations of commercial species and other affected species, such as dolphins and turtles, caught in nets and hooks.
- Marine contaminationUrban, industrial, and agricultural waste pollutes rivers and oceans, affecting reproduction and health. Plastics, in particular, are a hazard that can cause ingestion or entanglement.
- Habitat lossCoastal development and the destruction of mangroves, grasslands, and reefs eliminate essential feeding and breeding grounds.
- global changeRising ocean temperatures and acidification threaten reefs, mollusks, and fish, disrupting ecological balance and food availability.
- Illegal trafficking and tradeMany species are hunted on the black market for their fins, shells, eggs, or meat.
What conservation actions exist and how can we help?
La conservation of marine biodiversity It requires international collaboration, governments, NGOs, communities, and citizens. Some of the measures being implemented include:
- Fishing Regulation: Establishment of closed seasons and quotas for endangered species.
- Creation of marine protected areas: Where harmful activities are restricted or prohibited.
- Habitat recovery and restoration: Like reefs and meadows.
- pollution reduction: Promoting recycling, responsible use of plastic and waste management.
- Environmental education: To raise awareness about the importance of marine life and the dangers of illegal trade.
- Promote responsible consumption of seafood, preferring sustainable and certified sources.
- Promote scientific research and technology to improve conservation.
- international collaboration: To combat trafficking and regulate global fishing.
Every action, from legislating to participating in cleanup campaigns, contributes to protection. Citizen monitoring, through mobile apps or reports, can make a difference, as in the case of turtle nesting on Iberian beaches.
Numerous recovery centers, aquariums, and marine parks in Spain and around the world have been supporting conservation through research and breeding and reintroduction programs, such as the monk seal in Madeira or the vaquita marina in Mexico.
The situation of endangered aquatic species is worrying, but progress has also been made thanks to global scientific and social cooperation. Protecting our seas and rivers not only preserves species, but also maintains the planet's balance and guarantees a natural legacy for future generations.