DATELINE :- 11th February 2000
SEAHORSES THREATENED
Scientists say seahorses in 'dramatic decline'
An international project is under way in an attempt to preserve various species of seahorse around the globe. British scientists at London Zoo are working with McGill University in Montreal, Canada on Project Seahorse, gathering information on population changes and campaigning for measures which would halt the declines that appear to be occurring.
Building developments and pollution have contributed to the destruction of coral reefs, mangrove swamps and estuarine beds, all homes to seahorses, say the scientists. And fishermen are estimated to catch some 20 million of the creatures each year for sale as curios, live tank attractions and the consituent of some Orinental medicines.
Examples of threatened groups, say the scientists, include populations in South African, which are "almost wiped out"; and across South-East Asia, where a team of scientists, co-ordinated by Project Seahorse, have established a dozen trial conservation zones across the Philippines and Vietnam. Here fishing communities are encouraged to move away from dynamite and poison fishing to more sustainable methods that would preserve the seahorse - and other species into the bargain.