An Argentine court has made a groundbreaking decision, recognizing two goldfish as sentient beings with rights. The goldfish, named Fede and Magui, were kept in a glass display case at a sushi restaurant in Buenos Aires. However, their living conditions were deemed unsuitable, prompting an anti-speciesism sanctuary to file a complaint with the courts.
The Court’s Ruling
The court ruled that the fish would be moved to a more suitable location, and that they would be declared subjects of law, or sentient beings. This decision sets a precedent for similar animals in inadequate conditions to lead a dignified life. According to Matías Trufero, the lawyer for the NGO Jaulas Vacías, the conditions of the fish violated Law 14.346, which penalizes animal abuse in Argentina.
The fish were moved from their 40-liter display case to a 2,500-liter fish tank at the home of Carlos José Aga, one of the specialists who helped with the rescue. Aga explained that fish are like astronauts, requiring careful monitoring of their vital parameters to avoid imbalances that could lead to a decrease in their immunity. Fortunately, Fede and Magui are now doing well in their new home.
Implications of the Ruling
The ruling has significant implications for the treatment of animals in Argentina. Trufero emphasized that it is not illegal to keep a fish in a fish tank, but it is illegal to keep them in conditions that cause mistreatment or cruelty. This includes inadequate space, insufficient food, and other acts punishable by law. The decision also highlights the importance of declaring animals as subjects of law, as it allows them to be considered victims and not things in cases of cruelty and mistreatment.
The case of Fede and Magui opens a door for these types of fish, very common in homes and businesses, to be legally protected. As Aga noted, a subject with a legal right can do little or nothing for themselves unless there are people who speak on behalf of those who cannot speak and enforce the law.
Original reporting: El Paso News (HLL/CB) — read the source article.
