Abstract
Wildlife trade is a key driver of the biodiversity crisis. Unregulated, or under-regulated wildlife trade can lead to unsustainable exploitation of wild populations. International efforts to regulate wildlife mostly miss ‘lower-value’ species, such as those imported as pets, resulting in limited knowledge of trade in groups like reptiles. Here we generate a dataset on web-based private commercial trade of reptiles to highlight the scope of the global reptile trade. We find that over 35% of reptile species are traded online. Three quarters of this trade is in species that are not covered by international trade regulation. These species include numerous endangered or range-restricted species, especially hotspots within Asia. Approximately 90% of traded reptile species and half of traded individuals are captured from the wild. Exploitation can occur immediately after scientific description, leaving new endemic species especially vulnerable. Pronounced gaps in regulation imply trade is having unknown impacts on numerous threatened species. Gaps in monitoring demand a reconsideration of international reptile trade regulations. We suggest reversing the status-quo, requiring proof of sustainability before trade is permitted.
Highlights
Wildlife trade is a key driver of the biodiversity crisis
Under-documentation, cause for concern? Our findings suggest a minimum of 36% of reptile species are being traded, many are coming from wild populations, newly discovered species can be swiftly exploited, and a minimum of 79% of traded species are not subject to Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species (CITES) trade regulation
Our findings reveal a worrying situation where a huge number of reptile species are being exploited, with little international regulation, implying a lack of reliable a priori estimates of the impact on wild populations
Summary
Wildlife trade is a key driver of the biodiversity crisis. Unregulated, or under-regulated wildlife trade can lead to unsustainable exploitation of wild populations. We find that over 35% of reptile species are traded online Three quarters of this trade is in species that are not covered by international trade regulation. Assessments focusing on a small subset of species or locations (often using variable methods) can fail to reveal the true extent of wildlife trade and potential impacts on traded species, especially within groups such as reptiles[5,6,7]. Gaps in conservation assessments leave many reptile species with little or no population data[14], meaning that many species could be being traded despite risks to population viability, especially if sourced from wild populations. We reveal global trade dynamics by mapping traded species origins, exploring species endangerment status, and reporting the extent of wild capture. We illustrate how current regulations fail reptiles, demanding immediate reconsideration of the status-quo
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