World’s smallest porpoise under threat from China's craze for 'aquatic cocaine' – video
by Guardian Staff from on (#10CHE)
Affluent Chinese have developed an unhealthy appetite for dried swim bladders, known as 'aquatic cocaine', which has put two Mexican marine species more at risk. There are fewer than 100 vaquitas (the world's smallest porpoise) left and no one knows how many totoaba, but their numbers are dwindling even further as their swim bladders, also known as a maw, can fetch up to more than $4,000. The swim bladders are mostly bought by wealthy Chinese as 'collection items or gifts' and financial investments. Vision: www.vaquita.tv
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