A comprehensive study has highlighted the alarming threat to 108 marine species facing extinction in Cuba. Conducted from January 2021 to December 2024, the project, named "Threatened Marine Species in Cuba," was directed and coordinated by the Institute of Marine Sciences (Icimar), part of the Ministry of Science, Technology, and Environment, as reported by the state-run Granma newspaper.
Among these endangered species, 29 are classified as in "critical danger," 26 are considered "endangered," and 53 are labeled as "vulnerable." Corals are at the top of the "critical danger" category, followed by sharks, rays, bony fishes, and turtles.
While mangroves, seagrasses, macroalgae, sponges, and mollusks were not evaluated as threatened under international criteria, 25 species were preliminarily categorized as "threatened," according to Dr. Aida Caridad Hernández Zanuy, a senior researcher at Icimar, speaking to the state publication.
Dr. Hernández Zanuy emphasized the significance of this study, stating, "For the first time, a nationwide investigation was conducted to pinpoint marine species at risk of extinction. Expert teams with extensive experience in the taxonomy of the ten studied organism groups—marine vegetation (mangroves, seagrasses, macroalgae), sponges, mollusks, corals, and other cnidarians, echinoderms, bony fishes, sharks and rays, turtles, and mammals—were assembled, following the methodology proposed by the International Union for Conservation of Nature."
As a result of the project, the taxonomy of 4,398 marine macroorganisms was updated, representing nearly half of the species recorded in Cuba to date. "The list includes 1,921 mollusks, 965 bony fishes, 386 cnidarians, including corals, 303 sponges, and 83 sharks, among other examples," detailed Dr. Hernández Zanuy.
The threat of extinction arises from several factors, including biodiversity loss linked to pollution, unsustainable production practices, poaching, illegal trade, and the introduction and spread of exotic and invasive species.
Understanding the Threats to Cuba's Marine Biodiversity
What are the primary causes of marine species extinction in Cuba?
The main causes include biodiversity loss due to pollution, unsustainable production methods, poaching, illegal trade, and the introduction and spread of invasive species.
How many marine species are considered critically endangered in Cuba?
Out of the 108 endangered species, 29 are classified as critically endangered.
What role does the Institute of Marine Sciences play in protecting marine life in Cuba?
The Institute of Marine Sciences (Icimar) coordinates research projects to identify and address the threats facing marine species, relying on expert teams and international methodologies to protect Cuba’s marine biodiversity.