La protection of the parrotfish and other species essential to the health of coral reefs is once again in the spotlight in Dominican RepublicIn recent days, the Dominican Government has approved a extension of the ban current regulation on the fishing, capture and marketing of parrotfish (family Scaridae), sea cucumber (Holothuroidea) and other herbivorous fish that are key to the balance of the marine ecosystem. This restriction, established through new government decrees, will be in force from July 2, 2025 to July 2, 2027, according to the Ministry of Environment and Natural Resources and the Executive Branch.
With this measure, the authorities seek safeguard coral reefs, ensure the recovery of marine populations that have significantly declined and strengthen the fishing sustainability in coastal areas. It also responds to the need to reduce risks to fishermen, as the use of compressors and diving equipment to extract these species has caused repeated serious incidents.
Protected species and prohibited activities
The new closed season includes the total ban to fish, capture or market the following families:
- Scaridae: parrotfish, soap, butu, parakeet.
- acanthuridae: doctor and surgeon fish.
- pomacanthidae: angelfish.
- Chaetodontidae: butterfly fish.
- Holothuroidea: sea cucumbers and holothurians.
Also I know restricts the use of compressors and diving equipment with air both day and night for the extraction of these species, since this practice has led to accidents, injuries, decompression sickness and even deaths among sea workers.
Reasons behind the ban and environmental relevance
The importance of Parrotfish and of the herbivorous fish protected under the ban lies in their function within the marine ecosystem. These species control the growth of algae On reefs, they help keep corals in better condition and promote the natural production of White sand on Caribbean beaches. The decline of these species would cause serious consequences for tourism and coastal biodiversity.
Compliance with the regulations will be the responsibility of, in addition to the Ministry of the Environment, CODOPESCA, SENPA, the National Police and the Ministry of DefensePenalties for non-compliance with the ban are set forth in several environmental and regulatory laws in the country.
Surveillance and challenges in enforcing the ban
During the year 2025 they have already been carried out interventions to curb illegal trade, such as the closure of establishments in RÃo San Juan that were selling parrotfish out of season. However, authorities recognize that it is necessary strengthen surveillance, especially in tourist areas such as Boca Chica, where the clandestine sale of these species is common.
The Deputy Minister of Coastal and Marine Resources, José Ramón Reyes, has stated that It is a priority to increase the number of inspectors and the presence of security forces at critical points., in order to ensure that the ban is respected and the objective of biological recovery is achieved.
What citizens can do to collaborate
Everyone's participation is key to the initiative's success. Among the most effective forms of support, the authorities suggest:
- Inform and raise awareness to fishermen, merchants and residents about the importance of respecting closed season periods.
- Do not consume or sell parrotfish, sea cucumber or other protected species in restaurants or markets.
- Report suspicious activities or unauthorized fishing to the responsible institutions to facilitate a rapid response.
- Promote alternative capture methods and sustainable, which do not involve the use of compressors or harmful techniques, such as the use of aggregation ponds.
Only one exception to the ban is contemplated: the collection of holothurians (sea cucumbers and similar species) will be permitted for scientific research or projects officially endorsed by the Ministry of the Environment.
The extension of the ban reaffirms the commitment of Dominican Republic with the protection of the marine environmentThe success of this measure requires the collaboration of authorities, fishermen, and citizens to ensure the recovery of coral reefs and preserve marine biodiversity, ensuring the country's natural wealth for future generations.
