This was done after Caspian Sea states agreed to limit catches of the fish from which it is taken. The Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species, known as Cites have allowed Azerbaijan, Kazakhstan, Iran, and Russia permission to export 3.761 tons (4.15 US tons) of beluga caviar.
However, environmentalists have attacked the UN decision, calling it irresponsible.Experts estimate the Caspian’s caviar stocks have fallen by more than 90% since the late 1970s because of over fishing.
Julia Roberson of the environmental group Caviar Emptor states that as per the most recent data, beluga stocks in the Caspian declined by 45 percent between 2004 and 2005, thereby making the decision detrimental for the fish.
Well if caviar ceased to be such a prized feast, its demand would go down and fish populations would flourish. Moves to combat declining sturgeon stocks are a must.
Via: New York Times