National Marine Fisheries Service Denies Federal Protection to Vulnerable Atlantic Wolffish

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

CONTACT:
Karen Wood, CLF (617) 850-1722
Peter Shelley, CLF (617) 850-1754

BOSTON, MA November  10, 2009 – The Conservation Law Foundation (CLF), New England’s leading environmental advocacy organization, criticized the National Marine Fisheries Service’s (NMFS) decision announced Friday to leave the rare Atlantic wolffish (Anarhichas lupus) on the path to extinction by failing to protect the unique creature under the Endangered Species Act.

“There is credible scientific evidence that the U.S. population of Atlantic wolffish is at risk of extinction as a result of fishing pressures and habitat losses,” stated Peter Shelley, CLF Vice President. “We are dismayed that the NMFS chose to base its determination on untested hypotheses that leave the future of the wolffish to chance, rather than to use well-recognized principles of precaution to ensure its survival.”

Particularly troubling was the grouping of the U.S. population of Atlantic wolffish with Canadian populations despite very limited data supporting mobility of the species across this range, as well as unsupported assumptions about genetic similarities between the U.S. and Canadian wolffish populations.  “There is a startling lack of evidence to support the assumptions put forth in the determination,” continued Shelley. “We stand by the well-documented evidence of declining wolffish populations in the U.S. and continued habitat destruction due to mobile fishing gears that dredge the ocean floor where they live and breed. We will be carefully reviewing the risk-prone line of thinking NMFS has pursued in this decision and exploring our options for further action.”

Atlantic wolffish are best known for their large set of canine teeth and the ability to crush whole oysters, lobsters and sea urchins. The wolffish, which has evolved with natural anti-freeze to keep its blood flowing in the 250-400 foot deep, ice-cold water it calls home, can live up to 20 years and weigh as much as 40 pounds. Unlike most fish which broadcast millions of eggs into the water to be fertilized by the male and then abandoned, the wolffish pair up to reproduce and spawning occurs internally. The male then protects the eggs in a nest for up to four months.

The Conservation Law Foundation (www.clf.org) works to solve the most significant environmental challenges facing New England. CLF’s advocates use law, economics and science to create innovative strategies to conserve natural resources, protect public health and promote vital communities in our region. Founded in 1966, CLF is a non-profit, member-supported organization with offices in Maine, Massachusetts, New Hampshire, Rhode Island and Vermont.