The University of Arizona-owned Biosphere 2 introduced the critically endangered Sonoyta pupfish into a stream inside of its desert biome Friday. <\/p>\n
Once found throughout the region, the pupfish can now only be found in the Southwest portion of Organ Pipe National Monument, near the International Border. <\/p>\n
“The only place in Arizona where they exist is Quitobaquito Spring, naturally,” said Brett Montgomery, a pupfish specialist with Arizona Game and Fish. “That’s just one disaster away from them not existing anymore. So, that’s why we set up this refuge population.”<\/p>\n
Forty-eight pupfish were introduced today in the new stream at Biosphere 2. <\/p>\n
The introduction of pupfish is part of a Safe Harbor agreement between the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, Arizona Game and Fish and Biosphere 2. <\/p>\n
“Now we are becoming a safe haven for a species of fish that is endangered and I’m thrilled we can do that,” said Joaquin Ruiz, Biosphere 2 director. “It has to do with the scale of the place.”<\/p>\n
Arizona Game & Fish plans to introduce more in the coming months. <\/p>\n
Pupfish have offspring several times a year. <\/p>\n
They expect to see baby pupfish by spring. <\/p>\n
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Pat Parris is an anchor and reporter for KGUN 9<\/a>. He is a graduate of Sabino High School where he was the 1982 high school state track champion in the 800 meters. While in high school and college, he worked part-time in the KGUN 9 newsroom. Share your story ideas and important issues with Pat by emailing pat.parris@kgun9.com or by connecting on Facebook<\/a>, Twitter<\/a>, and Instagram<\/a>.<\/p>\n<\/p>\n