Researchers caution that the release of Pixar’s Finding Dory may pose a threat to wild fish populations.

Scientists have issued a warning suggesting wild fish populations could be in danger if Pixar’s ‘Finding Dory’ proves to be a big hit later this year. The researchers from the University of Queensland and Flinders University in Australia say that clownfish populations on coral reefs have been declining ever since ‘Finding Nemo’ was released back in 2003 “due to the popularity of a ‘Nemo’ in household aquariums”. They estimate that over 1m clownfish are taken from the reefs every year, and are worried the same thing could happen again when the sequel is released in July.

The researchers are hoping that by raising awareness of the problem they’ll be able to help the wild population of Dory’s breed, the blue tang. They have set up the Saving Nemo Conservation Fund to educate people about the dangers of taking fish from the reefs, and to raise awareness of the captive breeding programs that supply pet shops with popular ornamental species like the clown fish and the blue tang.

“What most people don’t realise is that about 90 per cent of marine fish found in aquarium shops come from the wild,” said UQ School of Biological Sciences PhD candidate and Saving Nemo Queensland Project Coordinator Carmen da Silva. Reef fish populations are already struggling due to warmer sea temperatures and ocean acidification caused by global warming. The last thing they need is to be plucked off reefs.

The organisation has started a social media campaign #FishKiss4Nemo in a bid to gain the attention of Ellen DeGeneres, the popular talk show host who voices Dory. The campaign is hoping 1m “fish kiss” selfies from animal conservations around the world would draw Ellen’s attention so that she can start raising awareness about the plight faced by the blue tang and clownfish.

Protecting wildlife is one of the key themes of ‘Finding Dory’, so we’re sure Pixar will be happy to lend its weight to their cause. Disney•Pixar’s ‘Finding Dory’ swims into UK cinemas on 29 July, 2016. Watch a trailer below.

In conclusion, it is crucial to raise awareness about the impact of popular movies like ‘Finding Dory’ on wild fish populations. By supporting initiatives like the Saving Nemo Conservation Fund and participating in campaigns like #FishKiss4Nemo, we can help protect these vulnerable species and ensure their survival in the wild. Let’s all do our part to ensure that the beauty of our oceans remains intact for future generations to enjoy.