Abstract
AbstractThe pet trade is the main cause of the growing number of exotic reptiles worldwide, posing a risk for invasion emergence and species extinction. In this study, we identify and analyze the obstacles involved in controlling the native and exotic reptile trade in Brazil to identify the main gaps and limitations in this regard. We propose measures that will aid in the planning of public policies that are more effective to protect native fauna. The pet trade regulation in Brazil is currently guided by poorly implemented policies. The main problems are associated with failures in legislation and enforcement, corruption, and lack of resources. As a result, the illegal trade control, current efforts for the sustainable use of biodiversity, and the prevention of the introduction of exotic species are insufficient. We recommend a multidisciplinary approach, based on actions to reduce legislation deficiencies and inconsistencies, intensification of inspection actions, and investment in educational actions aimed at raising societal awareness.
Highlights
In the last century, the global economy has opened new pathways for the pet trade to become globally widespread and profitable (Baker et al, 2013)
We present an overview of the challenges and obstacles encountered in controlling the reptile pet trade in Brazil and propose measures to assist in fauna management and public policy planning
Environmental crimes are considered lesser offensive potential crimes and, usually, only fines are imposed. The values of these fines, in turn, are insignificant in comparison with the profit obtained from the illegal trade: R$5,000.00 (about $939.00; converted to $09/09/ 2020 using an exchange rate 1$= 5.32 R$; Brazilian real (BRL)) per native wildlife specimen included in the official list of endangered species (ICMBio, 2018) and regulated by the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES), and R$500.00 per unlisted species (Decree No 6514/2008); and less than 5% of environmental fines are paid (Borges, 2018)
Summary
The global economy has opened new pathways for the pet trade to become globally widespread and profitable (Baker et al, 2013). The international reptile pet trade raises another major concern: the introduction of exotic species.
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