Newly built border wall segment further endangers rare desert fish, conservation organization says
The construction of a new segment of the border wall in southern Arizona has raised concerns beyond just stopping illegal immigration. According to the Center for Biological Diversity, the new border wall and paved road in California Gulch are obstructing streamflow crucial for the survival of the Sonora chub, a rare desert fish found in the area.
The Sonora chub is described as a small, chubby fish with a distinct red coloration on its underside during breeding season. The Center for Biological Diversity warns that the new infrastructure will push these endangered fish closer to extinction. Krista Kemppinen, Ph.D., a senior scientist at the organization, stated that the survival of the Sonora chub depends on access to desert water on both sides of the border, genetic exchange with Mexican populations, and migration of fish from Sonora after droughts. The new construction hinders these vital processes.
As President-elect Donald Trump prepares to reenter office and intensify border security efforts, the urgency of designating California Gulch as critical habitat for the Sonora chub becomes even more apparent. Kemppinen emphasized the need for measures to protect the fish, such as keeping cattle out of their habitat and installing culverts in the new border infrastructure to maintain natural streamflow and migration routes.
The controversy surrounding endangered species and environmental protection has been highlighted recently by Trump’s criticism of California Governor Gavin Newsom for prioritizing the protection of fish species over wildfire prevention. The ongoing debate underscores the delicate balance between conservation efforts and other societal needs.
In light of these developments, it is crucial for federal officials to take immediate action to safeguard the Sonora chub and prevent further decline in their population. The Center for Biological Diversity’s call for intervention is a reminder of the interconnectedness of ecosystems and the importance of preserving biodiversity for future generations.
