Why Is Abalone Illegal in South Africa? Everything You Need to Know
Abalone is a shellfish that belongs to the same family as oysters and mussels. It is also one of the most expensive types of shellfish because it can only be found on the South African coast and its abalone population is currently in decline. Abalone is illegal in South Africa, so unless you live there or have an acquaintance who manages a restaurant or hotel that sells the delicacy, there’s no way for you to get your hands on it. This article examines why abalone is illegal in South Africa and why consumers should care about this.
What is Abalone?
Abalone is a species of sea snail that is part of the family Haliotidae, including the Atlantic and Australian sea snails. Abalone is an essential source of protein for many coastal communities in Southern Africa and the Pacific Rim and is considered a luxury food. Abalone is a tiny mollusk that grows to about 3 cm in length. The abalone body consists of a soft, white edible flesh, or “sack” with inlaid red or purple lines and spots. The abalone’s top shell is covered in a thick, leathery layer of calcium carbonate, the source of the edible flesh. Abalone is found in the intertidal zone of the coast, where they attach to rocks with their horny footpads. The sea snail feeds primarily on algae, but it is also known to eat small animals and organic matter like plankton and tiny bacteria. Abalone is not a fish. It belongs to the family of mollusks, which are invertebrates with a soft body and a complex internal system of tubes called a “gland.” As abalone grow, they deposit a layer of calcium carbonate on the outside of their shells. The abalone can remove this layer to grow bigger. The abalone is a filter feeder; it sits on the seabed and uses its abalone to collect plankton from the water. The abalone uses its abalone to push the plankton into its tubes. The abalone sucks the water into its digestive system and expels the plankton through the anus. In some parts of the world, abalone is also used as a source of food for humans. In China, abalone is a delicacy and is used in various dishes. In the Philippines, abalone is used to make beer, desserts, and other dishes.
Abalone Exploitation in South Africa
Abalone is a species listed under Appendix II of the Convention on the International Trade in Endangered Species (CITES) and the Convention on the Conservation of Southern African Wildlife. Under these conventions, the international trade of abalone should be regulated. Unfortunately, as abalone is a luxury food item, it is also a target of illegal exploitation, smuggling, and trade within the borders of South Africa. The main threat to the sustainability of abalone fisheries in South Africa stems from the illicit trade of abalone. Abalone is gathered from the wild and farmed in the coastal areas of South Africa. Quotas set by various government agencies regulate the harvesting of wild abalone. However, the collection of farmed abalone is not controlled and is therefore susceptible to illegal exploitation.
Why Is Abalone Illegal in South Africa?
Abalone is not only illegal to possess or trade within the borders of South Africa; it is also illegal to collect from the wild or harvest from the wild. In addition to being illegal, harvesting or trading in abalone is also prohibited under the South African Environmental Management Act. This Act aims to protect the country’s biodiversity and ecosystems and is enforced by the South African Police Services. It is, therefore, no surprise that abalone poaching and exploitation have created a significant problem in South Africa. The illegal abalone trade has led to the depletion of abalone stocks, negatively impacting coastal communities that rely on abalone as a source of income.
Abalone and Human Health Benefits
Abalone meat is rich in protein and omega-3 fatty acids. It is an excellent source of calcium, phosphorus, iron, and selenium, which are beneficial for good health. The soft, white abalone meat has a sweet and meaty taste and is rich in amino acids, minerals, and vitamins, making it a complete protein. Abalone is low in sodium, cholesterol, and fat, making it a great alternative to red meat, poultry, and fish. Additionally, many people use abalone as a source of dietary supplements, as it is low in calories, inexpensive, and rich in minerals, vitamins, and omega-3 fatty acids. Abalone is not only good for your health but also the environment. Unlike fish and other sea creatures, abalone does not produce waste that pollutes the water. Therefore, it is a sustainable food source that can be consumed safely by humans and wildlife.
Conclusion
Abalone is a sea snail species listed under Appendix II of the Convention on the International Trade in Endangered Species (CITES) and the Convention on the Conservation of Southern African Wildlife. Abalone is valuable and sustainable seafood that has many health benefits, including the ability to promote good liver function and regulate one’s cholesterol levels. However, because it is illegal to harvest, trade, and consume in South Africa, those who consume it must do so illegally. Abalone is not only good for your health but also the environment. Unlike fish and other sea creatures that produce waste that pollutes the water, abalone does not have waste that pollutes the water. Therefore, it is a sustainable food source that can be consumed safely by humans and wildlife.
