An unexpected phenomenon has raised concerns among the fishermen of Pucusana and Punta Negra.. Over the past few days, it has been observed a notable presence of silverside and squid on the banks of the docks, something unusual for this time of year and which has captured the attention of both seafarers and local authorities.
Several neighbors and fishermen have taken advantage of the situation, collecting directly the stranded specimens with their hands, as shown by numerous videos shared on social media. This sudden abundance It has provided a temporary income for artisanal fishermen, although it has also generated concerns about the future of fishing activity and the availability of species in the area.
Alarm among seafarers over the impact on artisanal fishing
Juan José Siles, leader of the Pucusana fishermen's union, has expressed his concern to the unusual presence of large schools of squid in the vicinity of the dock. According to Siles, squid is seen as a scavenger and predatory species which, when approaching the coast, can threaten the survival de peces small as the silverside and the pintadilla. You can also inquire about the giant guitarfish to better understand this type of endangered species.
«At first it seems like an opportunity to make a quick buck., but if the situation continues, the number of smaller species, essential for artisanal fishing, is likely to be significantly reduced," explains Siles. The leader emphasizes that What is a boom today could turn into a worrying shortage in the coming weeks if pressure on shore species continues.
Possible causes and the role of environmental factors
Fisheries specialists and authorities link this phenomenon with changes in sea conditions, such as unusual variations in temperature and oxygen, which can force these species to abandon their usual habitats and seek refuge near the coast. Squid, in particular, tend to inhabit deeper waters. and it is not usual to find it so close to the surface.
Furthermore, environmental stress caused by pollution or hypoxia It is also mentioned as a possible trigger, as these factors can disorient the fish and cause them to end up stranded outside their usual areas. This pattern of strandings has been recorded in other areas of the Peruvian coast in recent weeks, showing the repetition of a worrying trend. It may also be helpful to review how Changes in the marine ecosystem affect species such as silverside.
The search for food is another of the reasons mentioned. In areas with high concentration de peces small or crustaceans, the squid can follow its prey to the shore, bringing with it other species such as the silverside.
Reactions and measures to the silverside situation
The fishing community is taking action. In recent days, urgent meetings have been held between fishermen and local authorities. to define the actions necessary to protect artisanal fishing and ensure that silverside and other traditional species do not disappear from the coast.
The fishermen themselves emphasize that the “small fish”, where the silverside is the star, It is the daily sustenance of dozens of families in the area. The squid invasion is forcing many to rethink their fishing strategies, while seeking a balance that allows them to take advantage of the current boom without compromising the future of the sector.
For now, the Pucusana and Punta Negra coastline continues to display unusual sights, with silverside and squid within easy reach. Uncertainty about the consequences of this phenomenon remains latent while specialists delve deeper into their analysis.
