The **Legislature of Misiones** approved a law declaring the native fish **Gymnogeophagus che**, popularly known as **”chanchita” or “juanita”**, as a **Provincial Natural Monument and of Public Interest**.
The measure aims to ensure its **preservation, reproduction, and protection** against environmental threats, consolidating the province’s commitment to the **conservation of native species**.
## A symbol of Misiones’ biodiversity
The “chanchita” was discovered in 1986 and inhabits the **Urugua-í stream**.
This freshwater fish, belonging to the family of **South American cichlids**, was identified in 1986 and is found in aquatic ecosystems of the region. It lives in **pairs or groups**, near the bottom, and feeds on **invertebrates, larvae, and small fish**, showing an **omnivorous diet with a carnivorous tendency**.
Its behavior includes **excavating the sandy substrate**, contributing to the **ecological dynamics** of its habitat. It is a **calm and peaceful species**, with a marked **adaptation to the river environment**.
## Physical characteristics of Gymnogeophagus che
A discreet fish but **vital for the balance** of Misiones’ streams.
– **Coloration**: Light brown to olive-yellowish, with **dark vertical bars** and a **distinctive black spot** on the flank.
– **Distribution**: Endemic to **South America**, confirmed presence in **Misiones**.
– **Behavior**: Bottom excavator, transforms the habitat, and lives in groups.
– **Feeding**: Omnivorous, with a preference for **mollusks, larvae, and aquatic insects**.
## Legal tools for the effective protection of this native fish
**The law grants powers to the Ministry of Ecology to safeguard the species.**
Deputy **Rolando Roa**, project informant member, highlighted that the regulation allows the **provincial government** to implement concrete actions to protect Gymnogeophagus che in its **natural habitat**, especially in the **Urugua-í stream area**.
The **Ministry of Ecology** will be responsible for implementing the safeguard measures.
## Science, territory, and environmental commitment
**Misiones strengthens its ecological agenda in the face of national cuts.**
During the legislative debate, the contrast between **provincial support for science** and **national cuts** was emphasized.
Roa mentioned the value of initiatives such as those of **CONICET**, reaffirming that Misiones opts for **its own resources to care for nature**, recognizing the work of **local scientific teams**.
## Conservation with local identity
The “chanchita” as a symbol of **Misiones’ fauna and environmental education**.
The declaration as a Natural Monument not only protects a vulnerable species but also promotes its **cultural, educational, and scientific value**.
The “chanchita” becomes a symbol of **regional biodiversity**, ideal for campaigns of **community awareness**, **environmental education**, and **responsible tourism**.
*Cover photo: Pablo Burchardt/@biofoto.fotografia*
