Customs officers at the San Luis Port of Entry in Arizona seized an astonishing $1 million worth of a highly sought-after and endangered fish, the totoaba. This marks the second-largest seizure of its kind in the state, with illegal fishing being one of the major factors contributing to the decline of the protected totoaba population.

Totoaba, scientifically known as Totoaba macdonaldi, is a species of fish that has been swimming in troubled waters since it was first listed as an endangered species back in 1979, reports AZFamily.

These creatures have a unique status in the world of wildlife trafficking, often referred to as the "Cocaine of the Sea" due to their high value in black markets.

Photo: Wikimedia Commons, License: Public Domain
The totoaba, scientifically known as Totoaba macdonaldi, is an endangered fish species.

The $1 Million Seizure

The U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) in mid-October seized a staggering 109 pounds of totoaba swim bladders, worth an estimated $910,000 to $1.365 million, Newsweek reports. The fish organs were cunningly concealed within a commercial shipment of frozen fish fillets.

This recent bust follows another major seizure in April, where a haul of totoaba worth $2.7 million was confiscated, AZFamily reports.

Photo: YouTube / CNN
The totoaba is often referred to as the "Cocaine of the Sea."

Totoaba's Habitat and Value

Totoaba fish are native to the Gulf of California and Mexican waters. They can grow up to 6.5 feet in length and weigh up to 220 pounds, NOAA Fisheries reports. According to U.S. Customs and Border Protection, the swim bladders of totoaba are particularly prized in traditional Chinese medicine and are considered a cultural delicacy in some Asian countries.

Some believe that these swim bladders have medicinal properties, including the ability to enhance fertility and improve circulation and skin vitality. As a result, a single totoaba swim bladder can fetch up to $10,000 in certain Asian markets, Newsweek reports.

Despite their value, it is illegal to take, possess, transport, or sell totoaba in the United States and Mexico due to their endangered status. The Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora and the U.S. Endangered Species Act provide additional protection globally and domestically.

Photo: YouTube / CNN
Totoaba swim bladders are highly prized in traditional Chinese medicine.

Conservation Efforts

The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration maintains that illegal fishing, habitat destruction, and unintentional bycatch have contributed to the decline of totoaba fish populations. The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, in conjunction with the Department of Homeland Security, continues to investigate the smuggling attempts of these protected animals. The collaboration between agencies, like CBP and USFWS, is vital in enforcing these critical laws and preserving endangered species.

The recent seizure of $1 million worth of totoaba swim bladders is a stark reminder of the ongoing challenges in wildlife conservation and the illicit trade of endangered species. With the totoaba facing multiple threats, it's clear that proactive efforts to protect these creatures are more important than ever.

It is our collective responsibility to ensure that these remarkable creatures remain a part of our planet's biodiversity.

Learn more in the video below.

https://youtu.be/5ZNSXIV8E8c?si=aML80wZjfvVqsk1w