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Fishin' for Facts: Vaquita

Status:   ENDANGERED

Common names: Vaquita (vah-keeta) or

                  Gulf of California Harbor Porpoise          Scientific name:  

    Family Phocoenidae:

        Genus Species: Phocoena sinus

        5 feet (1.5 meters)

A variety of fish.

The vaquita is one of the most endangered species of whale. There are only a few hundred left.  Scientists feel the vaquita is endangered because it becomes trapped in nets set for a fish called the totoaba. The totoaba is also endangered. Strong efforts are being made by the Mexican Government, fishermen, and others to protect both the vaquita and totoaba.