The Cabinet of Antigua and Barbuda has decided to prohibit the catching of parrot fish due to their significant role in the creation of much of the sand that encompasses Barbuda’s 62 square miles of land.

Parrot fish contribute to the island’s beaches and natural defenses by consuming algae and breaking down coral, which helps in the production of sand.

This ban is part of the government’s initiative to safeguard Barbuda’s environment from further deterioration, particularly because parrot fish play a crucial role in the formation of the island’s shoreline, which is vital for preserving its distinctive landscape and shielding it from erosion.

This decision underscores the significance of marine conservation for Barbuda’s sustainability, ensuring that the island remains protected from the effects of climate change and rising sea levels.

Government officials have stressed the importance of preserving these essential fish populations, as a decline in their numbers could hasten coastal erosion, posing a threat to Barbuda.

Through the ban on parrot fish fishing, the Cabinet aims to guarantee the ongoing replenishment of the island’s beaches and the enduring health of its ecosystems