Boxer Popfish Nears Extinction in Mexico

JOSÉ MARÍA MORELOS, MX — Mexican and international scientists have raised alarms over the possible extinction of the fish known as the "Boxer Popfish," one of seven endemic species of the Chichankanab Lagoon, located in this municipality of Quintana Roo.

During a recent monitoring expedition conducted in April, experts failed to detect a single specimen of this species, either visually or through environmental DNA analysis. This has led to fears that it may have completely disappeared from the wild.

According to the researchers, the primary cause of the Boxer Popfish's disappearance is the introduction of invasive species, such as tilapia and guppies, which have displaced the native fish. Furthermore, changes in the chemical composition of the water, including a drop in salinity, have directly affected the endemic species.

"Not a single specimen has been seen for two years. The situation is critical," stated members of the conservation team.

In response, specimens and eggs of other popfish species have been relocated to specialized facilities in Bristol (United Kingdom), Vienna (Austria), and soon to California, as part of an international conservation program. The transfer was carried out under strict protocols to guarantee the survival of the fish during the journey.

The experts noted that the Chichankanab Lagoon is a unique ecosystem in the world, having once been home to seven species of fish that existed only in this location. If the disappearance of the Boxer Popfish in the wild is confirmed, it would be the third species from this group lost in recent decades.

"This is not just a local case. It is part of a global biodiversity loss crisis," they stated.

Work is currently underway to design programs for the possible reintroduction of species into the lagoon and on environmental education projects with local communities.