Mexican authorities have banned the use of dolphins and other marine mammals for entertainment purposes

Mexico unanimously bans the use of dolphins and other marine mammals in entertainment shows

As reported by TUT.AZ, this is according to RIA Novosti.

"No marine mammal, regardless of species, can be subjected to extractive exploitation, whether for subsistence or commercial purposes. Capture may be permitted only for recovery, replenishment of populations, and reintroduction of these species into their natural habitat," states the published legislative bulletin.

The historic decision was unanimously adopted by all members of the Upper Chamber of the Mexican Parliament - support was expressed by both representatives of the ruling coalition and opposition deputies. The main goal of the innovations is to end the forced breeding of marine mammals in captivity and prohibit their use in entertainment shows popular among tourists and locals, which until now have been widespread throughout the country.

The reform also tightens the rules for scientific research involving marine mammals: now a special permit from the Ministry of Environment and Natural Resources will be required to conduct them. Only officially registered academic and scientific institutions will be granted the right to such research.

According to the new requirements, whales and other cetaceans can be kept exclusively in marine enclosures. Concrete pools and tanks are now prohibited by law. These animals are allowed to be kept only in open facilities with constant natural water exchange.