“Black Market Lobster Sales on Social Media Endanger Cozumel Species”

In Quintana Roo, the illegal sale of fresh lobsters is taking place on social media platforms, despite a current fishing ban. This activity is disrupting the reproductive cycle of the species. Local fishermen have reported that the lack of proper fishing surveillance has allowed this to happen. Many of the lobsters being sold are smaller than the legal size limit, further exacerbating the issue.

The scarcity of lobsters during the fishing season is causing significant harm to fishing cooperatives. Fishermen have noted that there are only five inspectors available to monitor the extensive coastline of the Caribbean Sea and the Gulf of Mexico. This makes it incredibly challenging to prevent illegal fishing activities.

While the price of lobster has remained stable, the premature fishing of the species is threatening its reproductive balance. It's crucial to respect fishing bans and only purchase seafood products that have been caught legally. This will help to ensure the sustainability of the lobster population and the livelihood of local fishermen.