The Orestias ascotanensis, a small fish thriving in the hostile environment of Ascotan salt flat, faces significant threats from proposed lithium mining projects. While the fish has shown remarkable evolutionary adaptations to survive extreme conditions, local mining activities and water extraction are jeopardizing its population. Experts and residents emphasize the need for careful mining practices to safeguard this unique ecosystem.
At an elevation exceeding 3,700 meters (approximately 12,000 feet), the Orestias ascotanensis, often referred to as the “karachi,” thrives in the challenging conditions of the Ascotan salt flat. This diminutive ray-finned fish, which reaches a size of only 7.5 centimeters (3 inches), has adapted remarkably to the high levels of heavy metals and fluctuating salinity inherent in its environment. Marco Mendez, a professor at the University of Chile specializing in evolutionary biology, highlights the extreme solar radiation and temperature fluctuations, which can vary from 26 degrees Celsius (79 degrees Fahrenheit) during the day to below freezing at night. Research conducted at the Millennium Institute’s genome center has revealed that this unique fish possesses specific genetic adaptations that enable it to withstand various stressors, including heavy metals and low oxygen levels. Miguel Allende, the director of the institute, notes the rapid evolutionary adaptations occurring in the karachi, stating, “We’ve seen how they’ve done this in a short evolutionary time because there are other variants of this fish in less hostile environments. They’ve taken these genes and exacerbated them.” Despite its remarkable resilience, the fish’s survival is compromised by ongoing environmental threats, particularly from copper mining activities in the region, which have diminished its population due to excessive water extraction. Local resident Mauricio Anza expressed concerns, stating, “That’s what’s hurting them; when they take the water, the fish die.” Community members are actively engaged in conserving local flora and fauna, recognizing the fragile balance of their ecosystem. Moreover, Ascotan is identified as a prospective site for a private lithium mining project by the government, a development that has raised alarms among locals and conservation experts alike. They emphasize the necessity for stringent ecological safeguards to be integrated into the mining plans. Miguel Allende articulates this sentiment, asserting, “Mining activity, while important from an economic point of view, must be carried out with the aim of ensuring that this very particular environment is not lost forever.”
The Ascotan salt flat at elevations of over 3,700 meters is home to the Orestias ascotanensis, a notably adapted fish species that endures extreme environmental conditions. This fish’s unique adaptations include tolerating high heavy metal concentrations and significant temperature variances. However, the burgeoning interest in lithium mining for its economic benefits poses substantial threats to its habitat. The intersection of economic development and ecological preservation creates a critical discourse on sustainable practices in the region.
In summary, the karachi fish faces considerable threats from mining activities that could disrupt its fragile habitat in the Ascotan salt flat. While the species exhibits remarkable resilience and genetic adaptations, the impact of water extraction for mining threatens its survival. Protecting this unique environment is paramount, with local experts and residents advocating for sustainable practices to ensure the continued existence of this rare fish and its ecosystem.
Original Source: www.straitstimes.com
