Ecologists in Spain denounce the neglect of 'protected' Axarquia Cliffs

Ecologists denounce the abandonment and neglect of the Cliffs in Maro and Cerro Gordo. The cliffs in the protected area tower over the coastline and cover an area of 1,810 hectares, between the municipalities of Nerja and Almuñecar.
One of the main values of this natural landscape is the seabed, since it is practically considered a virgin coastline. However, despite 30 years of protection, the area is constantly under threat by illegal fishing.
Marine biologist Jose Antonio Rodríguez denounced the situation in a recent conference in Torre del Mar. He warned of the “serious state of abandonment” in the natural enclave shared by the provinces of Malaga and Granada.
Rodríguez explained that after 15 years, he returned over the summer to dive in the protected waters. He assured that he knew the seabed well since he used to do a lot of scuba diving in the area. According to the marine biologist, the situation of underwater life is exactly the same as that of unprotected areas. His experience in other natural areas had shown him the spectacular results of special conservation.
Rodríguez said he didn’t see any big fish or even a small pollack. He continued by saying that all of the coveted species by fishermen were missing. The biologist also highlighted that at a depth of about 16 metres, the sandy bottom was empty except for some Mullet fish by the rock. This is due to trawlers that leave the area desolate, even though fishing is prohibited.