Invasive aquatic pets: failed policies increase risks of harmful invasions

• Published in: Biodiversity and conservation Vol. 27; no. 11; pp. 3037 - 3046
• Main Authors: Patoka, Jiří, Magalhães, André Lincoln Barroso, Kouba, Antonín, Faulkes, Zen, Jerikho, Rikho, Vitule, Jean Ricardo Simões
• Format: Journal Article
• Language: English
• Published: Dordrecht Springer Netherlands 01.09.2018; Springer; Springer Nature B.V
• Subjects: aquatic organisms; Biodiversity; Biomedical and Life Sciences; business enterprises; Climate Change/Climate Change Impacts; Commentary; Communication; Conservation Biology/Ecology; Dogs; Ecology; Euthanasia; Fishes; Government regulation of business; habitats; industry; International economic relations; Invasive species; issues and policy; Jurisdiction; Life Sciences; Pet care industry; Pet industry; pet ownership; Pets; Policies; Political activity; Political aspects; Risk; Trade; Invasive species; Ornamental animal; Pet trade; Legislation; Conservation
• ISSN: 0960-3115; 1572-9710
• DOI: 10.1007/s10531-018-1581-3

Businesses in the pet trade collect and transport many aquatic species around the globe, and some of these individuals are released into new habitats. Some jurisdictions have introduced laws intended to regulate this trade, but these regulations have rarely had the desired effects. Laws regarding pets and the pet trade are often poorly communicated, poorly enforced, and not aligned with hobbyists’ beliefs. Consequently, some laws may increase the number of unwanted introductions instead of decreasing them. A significant change in approach is needed, involving far greater communication with scientists, administrations, politicians, the pet industry, and pet owners, promoting euthanasia of unwanted pets rather than release, and the creation and promotion “white lists” of low risk species that can be sold in the pet trade.