The manjuari, a remarkable fish species, faces a critical threat to its survival. This ancient creature, possibly dating back 150 million years, is now teetering on the brink of extinction. You might be surprised to learn this fish existed alongside the dinosaurs.
Currently, conservation efforts are underway in Cuba’s Zapata swamp, the largest natural reserve in the Caribbean. Biologists are working tirelessly to rescue the Cuban giant sawfish, as the manjuari is also known. It’s a race against time to protect this biological relic.
Here’s what makes the manjuari so special:
* Ancient Lineage: It’s a living fossil, having survived for an amazing 140-150 million years.
* Unique Appearance: The manjuari is characterized by its long,slender body and sharp teeth.
* Critical Status: Classified as critically endangered in Cuba and listed on the International Union for Conservation of Nature’s (IUCN) Red List as 2020.
* Ecological Importance: Considered a true “jewel” of Cuban fish fauna.
However, the manjuari population has plummeted dramatically in recent years. A key factor is the introduction of an invasive species – the Asian swamp eel – in the late 1990s. This non-native predator has devastated the previously pristine wetland habitat.
I’ve found that innovative solutions are often needed in these situations. Fortunately, a breakthrough has emerged. Biologists have developed a method for successfully breeding the challenging manjuari in captivity.
Here’s how the recovery program works:
- Manjuari are spawned at a nearby aquaculture facility.
- Biologists carefully nurture the young fish,which start out incredibly small – about the size of a pencil.
- once mature, the manjuari are reintroduced into their natural habitat.
This approach offers a beacon of hope for the future of this extraordinary species. It’s a testament to the dedication and ingenuity of the conservation team. Protecting the manjuari isn’t just about saving a single fish; it’s about preserving a piece of our planet’s ancient history.




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