Environmental authorities investigate fish mortality and illegal fishing in Brazil

Environmental authorities in Brazil are addressing two separate incidents involving fish and fishing regulations. In Mariápolis, the Military Environmental Police intercepted two men using prohibited casting nets in the Rio do Peixe. The operation resulted in the seizure of a boat, an outboard motor, and approximately 14.4 kilograms of fish, including armal and mandi species. Some of the fish were below the legal minimum size or had been cut to evade inspection. The individuals were fined a total of R$ 2,576.00 and face criminal charges under the Environmental Crimes Law.

In Rio de Janeiro, over five tons of dead fish have been removed from Guanabara Bay near the Museum of Tomorrow. Cleanup crews collected approximately 5.7 tons of fish and debris within a 24-hour period. While the State Institute of the Environment (Inea) reported that water analysis showed no signs of contamination, officials are investigating the cause. Experts suggest the mortality could be due to discarded catch from commercial fishing nets, low oxygen levels, or currents transporting fish from other locations.