Overview of the ornamental aquatic organisms market in Brazil

Abstract

This study aims to analyze the ornamental aquatic organisms market and identify key consumer obstacles in aquarium farming. A questionnaire comprising 57 questions was distributed via Virtual Social Networks (RSV), using the Snowball method during June and July 2023. The survey encompassed all 26 states and the Federal District. Data analysis relied on descriptive statistics. Out of 270 respondents, 65% were female, 34% were male, 0.4% identified as trans women, and 0.4% as trans men. Predominant states in the research included Minas Gerais (35.6%) and Amapá (20.4%). Regarding pet ownership, only 13% of consumers raise fish, behind the raising of dogs (56%) and cats (22%). Among the fish, 47% are small species, such as guppy, swordfish, betta, platy, and others. Reasons for discontinuing ornamental aquatic animal ownership included lack of time, insufficient information on care, pet mortality, and disease-related losses. However, 72% expressed continued interest in restarting. While the production of ornamental aquatic organisms has been on the rise, especially nationally, lack of information remains a primary barrier to increased adoption in Brazil. Therefore, expanding publicity, particularly through specialized aquarium stores, offers a viable solution to reducing mortality rates among aquarium animals and fostering consumer interest.