Notes
tuna – マグロ;
overfishing- 過剰漁獲
spawning – 産卵
regulation – 規制
sustainably-持続可能に
generation – 世代
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Kanji Nishi used to catch many big bluefin tuna near Iki Island. But now, there are almost none left. In 2005, fishermen there caught 358 tons of tuna. In 2014, they only caught 23 tons. Many young fishermen have quit. Experts say overfishing is the main reason. Most tuna are caught before they can grow up and have babies. This is hurting the population.
Japan made some fishing rules, but experts say they are not strong enough. The rules are based on old data, and many fish are still being caught in spawning areas. Some people and companies want to fish more sustainably, but the government has close ties with big fishing businesses. This makes it hard to change.
Some local fishermen started a self-ban in summer to protect the fish. But real change needs stronger government action. If nothing is done, future generations may never see bluefin tuna in the sea.
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(Please read All at sea: Lack of regulations hurting tuna stocks for details. Image from Japan Times.)
