Authorities in Argentina have seized more than 700 marine animals that were being trafficked from Kenya for the exotic pet trade.
The animals were discovered on 26 April at Ezeiza International Airport near Buenos Aires during a joint operation involving environmental authorities, customs officials and wildlife organisations.
The shipment included tropical fish and marine animals often sold for aquariums, including surgeonfish, puffer fish, lionfish, butterflyfish, octopuses, crabs and starfish.
Many animals died during transport
According to conservation groups, many of the animals arrived dead after spending around 120 hours in transport. Surviving animals showed signs of severe stress and shock after the long journey.
The rescued animals were taken to facilities operated by Fundación Temaikèn near Buenos Aires. Veterinarians and marine wildlife specialists worked for more than 28 hours to stabilize the surviving animals.
Emergency rescue teams installed additional tanks with special heating, filtration and water systems designed for tropical marine species.
Rescue workers also slowly adjusted the animals to new water conditions to improve their chances of survival.
Concerns about growing wildlife trade
Wildlife experts say the illegal trade in marine animals for home aquariums is growing around the world. They warn that the trade damages coral reef ecosystems and causes high death rates during capture and transport.
According to the organisations involved in the operation, this was the third seizure of trafficked marine animals at the same airport within one year, suggesting an established trafficking route.
Authorities have not yet announced whether any arrests were made.
The rescued animals remain under specialised care while officials decide what will happen to them next.
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