Discuss: Maori Eels
3 comments
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1 Simmons Buntin on Jun 18, 2010
2 Stephanie Bowman on Jun 19, 2010
“Cheers” for James Prosek’s article on the longfin eels of NZ! I too am working on a book (for children)and an art/science outreach program to help raise awareness about the threat of extinction these ancient, endemic creatures face. They are as endangered as the kiwi bird, but are still COMMERCIALLY fished and exported! The Maori may lose their living myths if NZ’s Ministry of Fisheries does not place a moratorium on commercial longfin eel fishing.
I really appreciated James’ mention of the crucial need to preserve our mythologies surrounding eels and other creatures. Flat science is great for giving us facts, but mysteries quicken our hearts and spirits, motivating us to act to save vanishing ecosystems.
3 Jim Takita on Jun 09, 2011
I came across this article and video by accident. I, however feel an attachment to the eels and have been interested in them for as long as I can remember. I have read Mcphee’s book on eels and have been to Japan and visited the eel farms there and eaten at the special eel restaurants. But nothing prepared me for New Zealand and the Maoris!
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For another interesting take, read Stephanie Bowman’s guest Terrain.org blog entry, with original illustrations, at http://blog.terrain.org/2010/05/06/saving-the-longfin-eel/.