Canada seeks comment on endangered bluefin

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CHARLOTTETOWN, Prince Edward Island, Oct. 13 (UPI) -- Canadian officials are seeking public comment on a possible listing of the Atlantic bluefin tuna as an endangered species.

The Department of Fisheries and Oceans set a Dec. 14 deadline for comments on the matter, which CBC News said could doom the tuna industry on Prince Edward Island.

"It would become illegal to fish the species," said Sophie Bastien-Daigle, regional manager of the DFO species at risk program. "There would have to be other measures put in place to ensure its recovery."

Bluefin is a popular fish at sushi bars around the world and fetches a high price, CBC News said. About 350 commercial PEI fishermen are licensed to catch bluefin.

The Department of Fisheries and Oceans is expected to make a decision on the listing next year.

"We would actually like to hear from all Canadians who could be affected," said Bastien-Daigle. "We want to hear from them about their views on bluefin tuna, about how they would be affected by a listing decision."