At Least 113 Chilean Devil Rays Killed: Beijing Customs Seizes 226 Pieces of Mobula Tarapacana Gill Plates | IUCN Publishes Global Status of Sharks, Rays, and Chimaeras

On December 2, 2024, the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) unveiled its latest report, Global Status of Sharks, Rays, and Chimaeras. This monumental study, spanning over 2,000 pages and involving contributions from 353 experts across 115 countries, provides an alarming look into the survival crisis facing sharks, rays, and chimaeras worldwide. The report highlights urgent challenges like overfishing and bycatch and calls for immediate conservation action. As a co-author of the report, Professor John MK Wong of Qatar’s Ministry of Climate and Environment emphasized the importance of local knowledge in shaping this comprehensive assessment. Unlike prior studies dominated by international experts, this report integrates firsthand insights from local researchers, reflecting the spirit of the Kunming-Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework and the United Nations' Sustainable Development Goal 17 on global partnerships.

On the same day, Dec 2nd, the Beijing Daxing Airport Customs announced the seizure of 5.055 kilograms of manta ray gill plates, comprising 226 individual pieces. These items, discovered in the luggage of an incoming passenger who failed to declare them, were identified as belonging to Mobula tarapacana, also known as the Chilean devil ray. This species, classified as Endangered by the IUCN and listed under CITES Appendix II, is protected due to its vulnerability to overexploitation.


Manta birostris | Credit: John MK Wong


The Hidden Cost: 113 Rays Lost to Illegal Trade


The confiscation of 226 gill plates is a stark reminder of the devastating impact of wildlife trafficking. Since each ray typically has two gill lobes, this seizure suggests the death of at least 113 Chilean devil rays. These majestic creatures, with wingspans reaching up to 3.7 meters, are often admired for their gliding grace near the ocean’s surface and their ability to dive to depths nearing 1,900 meters.


Rhizoprionodon acutus | Credit: John MK Wong

Their gill plates are sought after for use in traditional remedies, contributing to an illicit trade valued at nearly $1 billion annually. This tragic exploitation underscores the urgent need for strengthened enforcement against wildlife trafficking and a shift in consumer behavior.

Beijing Customs’ swift action is a commendable example of how enforcement agencies can protect endangered species and ecosystems. As consumers, we too bear responsibility. By refusing to buy or use products derived from endangered wildlife, we can disrupt the demand driving this destructive trade. The message is clear: no trade, no slaughter. Together, enforcement and public action can pave the way for a future where biodiversity thrives.


This is a translation of the OceanWetlands post:

《全球1/3的鲨鱼、魟鱼与银鲛物种濒临灭绝！IUCN发布最新报告 | 大兴机场海关查获蝠鲼鱼鳃制品226件》

https://mp.weixin.qq.com/s/--8kdwXkt2v7-qaCy2twfg

Credit: IUCN


Translator: Wendy

Reviewed by: Richard


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