Will the Bluefin Tuna be extinct by the end of 2010?

As you are all more than aware, I am an ardent non fish eater. I also rant a lot about eating only sustainable fish and shellfish but I want to draw to your attention the desperate state of a species that is believed to be extinct by the end of the year. Yes, that’s correct – completely wiped out. The Atlantic Bluefin tuna is so close to extinction that Mitsubishi (yes the car manufacturer) have actually started stock piling this species ready for when they are extinct. The blue fin tuna is so rare that several months ago, one fish sold for £111,000. So imagine when they are actually extinct what Mitsubishi will be able to command for each fish. Unfortunately, this is the politics and economics of extinction.

2010 is a crucial year for the blue fin and our actions could have a positive effect. Firstly, please continue to ensure that when you buy fish you choose those species sourced from sustainable stock. This will increase the scale of the fisheries that do adhere to the rules and manage their by catch. It also continues to support their businesses and will hopefully in turn encourage more fishermen to get involved. More importantly, please just be aware of the plight of the Bluefin Tuna. Get involved, sign petitions and boycott restaurants that are serving this dish. I'll try and get a petition on here for you all to sign. Thanks for taking the time to read this.