What is it about?
The findings of this study reveal that 1 out of every 3 fish sold in restaurants, fish markets, and supermarkets are mislabeled and do not correspond to their genetic identification. This is a staggering number and raises serious concerns about the accuracy of labeling in the fishing industry.
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Why is it important?
In addition to highlighting the issue of mislabeling in the fishing industry, the study also sheds light on the importance of traceability in ensuring the sustainability of our marine biodiversity. Did you know that artisanal fishing provides 1 out of every 2 fish on the tables of Mexicans? This underscores the need for us to take a more holistic approach to manage our marine resources.
Perspectives
During the course of the study, we found over 100 different species of fish in our samples. This diversity is a testament to the richness of our marine ecosystems, and it is something that we should work hard to preserve. However, it is important to note that many of the fish that we identified in the study were global and aquaculture species that are commonly used as substitutes for wild marine fish. Examples of these species include tuna, salmon, mahi-mahi, catfish, and tilapia. Unfortunately, many of the wild marine fish that these species are used to substitute, such as grouper, snapper, red snapper, sea bass, and marlin, are generally overfished. This means that we need to be more mindful of the types of fish that we consume, and we need to work together to ensure that our marine resources are managed sustainably.
Adrian Munguia-Vega
University of Arizona
Read the Original
This page is a summary of: DNA barcoding reveals global and local influences on patterns of mislabeling and substitution in the trade of fish in Mexico, PLoS ONE, April 2022, PLOS,
DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0265960.
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