Well, sort of.
While we need to look at the question of (inevitable) species extinction rationally and accept that what Barry said is factually correct, that should
not be an excuse for inaction and disinterest in the ongoing phenomena for which WE (as mankind) are responsible.
Clearly, in the case of the Totoaba and (consequently the Vaquita, WE are entirely responsible.
The "ideal" of preserving EVERY species in which we have the power to do so appears preferable to many but, pragmatically, we always need to
determine where the proper balance lies.
Saving a centipede, an ant or the like at the expense of worthy societal progress is fairly absurd while saving other species (if possible) may well
be worth the effort and expense. EACH one is unique.
My (usually sarcastic) criticism of the Vaquita effort has largely been that it was a long lost cause. It's possible (but unlikely) that the
Totoaba CAN be saved and the effort should be made.
Gill nets should have been BANNED completely decades back. Short of doing so, there will NEVER be a sustainable solution to the fisheries crisis.
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