In a mega operation triggered in seven states and the Federal District, the Brazilian Institute of Environment and Renewable Natural Resources (Ibama) seized more than 58 thousand genetically modified fish illegally marketed.
Genetically modified organisms (GMO) are marketed without authorization in Brazil. Modified ornamental fish species draw the attention of aquarists, mainly by the fluorescence .
Agents found varieties of Paulistinha species (Danio Rerio), tetra-black (GYMNOCORYMBUS TERNETZI) and beta (Betta splendens) genetically modified to issue fluorescence by inserting anemones or jellyfish genes. The fish Gain strong colors and when exposed to ultraviolet light, shine in the dark .
The operation resulted in 36 infraction notices, which total R $ 2.38 million in fines to traders. The fines imposed by Ibama to the offender can range from $ 60,000 to $ 500,000.
In addition to the Federal District, the operation took place in EspÃrito Santo, Minas Gerais, Mato Grosso, Pernambuco, Paraná, Rio de Janeiro and São Paulo.
In Minas Gerais, was one of the main targets of the inspection, in the municipality of Muriaé (MG). In 2022, agents found transgenic fish in free life in the rivers of the region. When animals are released in the environment, the fine can be considered very serious, and to the R $ 1.5 million .
Environmental risk
Importing, maintenance and trade of these transgenic varieties are not allowed in Brazil, due to the lack of risk assessment and not because they do not have commercial release issued by the National Biosafety Technical Commission (CTNBio).
The agency points out that the trade of OGM animals bring risks to the environment for the possibility of release in nature. “Bioinvanation of exotic species alone can already cause a major imbalance in the environments in which they are established. Because they are genetically modified, there is still the fact that the environmental damage that can cause is not known,” says Ibama.
In addition to modified animals, agents found axolotes (Ambystoma Mexicanum) and stingrays of the genre Potamotrygonwithout legal origin.
This content was originally published in genetically modified fish: Ibama seizes more than 58,000 animals on the CNN Brazil website.
Source: CNN Brasil
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