Save the Arapaima!
The Arapaima (Arapaima Gigas) is the largest freshwater fish in the world, reaching in excess of 10 feet and weighing up to 440 lbs. They are truly magnificent. However, because of they're gargantuan size they were over-fished to near extinction by commercial and indigenous fisherman in the past century.
Although the Arapaima population is starting to recover and stabilize, more stringent restrictions must be put in place to assist these regal Goliaths in their recuperation.
Please, assist me in strongly urging the Department of Fisheries in modifying their policies in the Amazon, Essequibo, and most especially the North Rupununi Wetlands. A time frame must be enacted where these fish may be allowed to go unharvested, so that they may continue to breed and re-establish their population. That way, a sustainable fishing practice may once again resume in this region in the near future.
Time is off the essence here, friends. We must act with haste. I thank you for any and all assistance you can offer in this matter, friends.
We the undersigned,
The over fishing of the Arapaima is a critical problem, one that must be addressed with swift and decisive action. I understand that this fish is a staple resource for native tribes of the Amazon and surrounding areas, but without protection and a chance for a population stabilization, this wonderful giant will die out.
I implore you, enact the necessary restrictions, be they fishing limitations on area, time, or whatever you deem a viable solution. We need to give these fish a chance to recover from the massive amount of over fishing they've been subjected to.
Please, for the sake of preserving a vital part of our Earth's history, do something to preserve and protect these amazing creatures before it is too late. Thank you for your time.
