World Aquatic Animal Day

World Aquatic Animal Day is a day dedicated to raising awareness about the importance of our water resources and the many species that call them home. It's a time to reflect on the ways in which we can protect and preserve these invaluable ecosystems, ensuring that they continue to thrive for generations to come.

As we celebrate World Aquatic Animal Day, we're reminded of the critical role that aquatic species play in our lives. From providing food and livelihoods for millions of people around the world to supporting countless other species that depend on them, aquatic ecosystems are essential to the health and well-being of our planet, so don’t hunt the species and don’t destroy their habitat.

But despite their importance, these ecosystems are under threat. Pollution, overfishing, and climate change are just a few of the many challenges that our water resources face today. That's why it's more important than ever that we take action to protect them.

So, on this World Aquatic Animal Day, let's commit to doing our part to preserve these invaluable resources. Whether it's by reducing our use of single-use plastics, supporting sustainable fishing practices, or advocating for policies that prioritize the health of our waterways, there are many ways in which we can make a difference. Together, we can ensure a bright future for our aquatic ecosystems and the many species that depend on them.

Did you know that the following species are in the Lao PDR:

CITES I species:

1. Siamese crocodile (Crocodylus siamensis)

2. Indian narrow-headed softshell turtle (Chitra indica)

3. Indian flapshell turtle (Lissemys punctata)

4. Burmese star tortoise (Geochelone platynota)

5. Chinese softshell turtle (Pelodiscus sinensis)

CITES II species:

6. Green sea turtle (Chelonia mydas)

7. Hawksbill turtle (Eretmochelys imbricata)

8. Olive ridley turtle (Lepidochelys olivacea)

9. Loggerhead turtle (Caretta caretta)

10. Giant river stingray (Himantura chaophraya)

11. Mekong giant catfish (Pangasianodon gigas)

12. Irrawaddy dolphin (Orcaella brevirostris)

These species are all protected under the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES), which regulates the international trade of endangered species. It's important that we work together to ensure that these and other endangered species are protected and preserved for future generations to enjoy.

(Picture source: inaturalist.org)