Marine wildlife faces threats in Luperón Bay and Gibraltar

Environmental concerns have emerged in Luperón Bay, Dominican Republic, following attempts to bring a large barge into the natural refuge. The barge, supported by tugboats named ‘Culloden’ and ‘Mitchell’, is reportedly being moved to Playa Chiquita for repairs involving welding. Local stakeholders and fishermen have expressed alarm, citing potential ecological damage to manatees and dolphins caused by rust and copper-based antifouling paint. The administrator of the Luperón Wildlife Refuge stated they were unaware of the barge's presence in the area.

In separate marine news, Spain's Ministry for the Ecological Transition and the Demographic Challenge (Miteco) has launched an investigation after an Iberian orca known as ‘Toñi’ was spotted in Gibraltar waters with marks on its dorsal fin consistent with pellet gun shots. Toñi is the oldest known member of this vulnerable population. Under Spanish law, harming such species is a serious offense that can result in criminal liability and fines of up to 2 million euros.