Wildlife Trade Research Articles

Assessing the potential impacts of exotic reptile species advertised for sale in the South African pet trade

Assessing the impacts of non-native species is essential for preventing, monitoring and eradicating introduced species. In South Africa, impact assessment has been adopted for species introduced through various pathways, including the legal and illegal wildlife trade. We conducted a comprehensive literature search to collate information on the impacts associated with 76 non-native reptiles sold as pets in South Africa, using the Generic Impact Scoring System (GISS), Environmental Impact Classification for Alien Taxa (EICAT), and Socio-Economic Impact Classification for Alien Taxa (SEICAT). Using GISS, we found that 12 species were associated with environmental impacts (E_GISS), and 10 had socio-economic impacts (SE_GISS). For EICAT and SEICAT, 12 species had environmental and seven had socio-economic impacts, respectively. Despite extensive research efforts, most (82 %) of the evaluated species had no documented impacts, implying that these species are unlikely to have significant impacts. Environmental impact scores differed between GISS and EICAT, indicating that both schemes should be used when assessing environmental impacts. In contrast, while the socio-economic impact scores of GISS and SEICAT were comparable, both schemes provide a comprehensive assessment by capturing different aspects. Popular pet species such as the Iguana iguana, Python bivittatus, and Trachemys scripta elegans, already introduced in the country, scored the highest impacts in all schemes, prompting strict monitoring and policy development regarding their trade. Using multiple impact schemes, we show that despite extensive research efforts, 82 % of reptile species sold as pets in South Africa have no documented impacts. Concerningly, species with documented impacts showed high environmental but minor socio-economic impacts.

New Variants in the Chloroplast Genome Sequence of Two Colombian Individuals of the Cedar Timber Species (Cedrela odorata L.), Using Long-Read Oxford Nanopore Technology

The plant species Cedrela odorata has been largely exploited in the timber industry due to the high demand for its wood. Therefore, C. odorata has been considered a vulnerable species since 1994, under the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES). C. odorata is a key timber species included in the management and conservation plans for the Amazon and Central American rainforests. These plans include the development of genetic and genomic resources to study local populations of the species in Colombia. In this study, two novel chloroplast (cp) genomes were assembled and annotated using the MinION long-read sequencing technology. The new cp genomes were screened for sequence variants (SVs), and a total of 16 SNPs were identified, presumably unique to populations from the Amazon region in Colombia. Comparative genomics with other reported cp genomes from different populations of C. odorata support the hypothesis of intraspecific diversity associated with their place of origin. These cp genome sequences of C. odorata from Colombian individuals represent valuable genomic resources for the species, suitable for identifying novel DNA fingerprinting and barcoding applications.

Research on Suppression Measures for Illegal Trade in Wildlife Based on Change Theory

Research on Suppression Measures for Illegal Trade in Wildlife Based on Change Theory

Study on Illegal Trade in Wildlife Based on AHP and ARMI-Intervention-SVR Series Models

Study on Illegal Trade in Wildlife Based on AHP and ARMI-Intervention-SVR Series Models

Knowledge, attitudes, and practices towards the risk of zoonotic diseases, wildlife trade and wildlife consumption in Latin America

Knowledge, attitudes, and practices towards the risk of zoonotic diseases, wildlife trade and wildlife consumption in Latin America

Reducing the illegal wildlife trade based on multiple linear regression model

Reducing the illegal wildlife trade based on multiple linear regression model

Study on Illegal Wildlife Trade Based on Gray Prediction and TOPSIS Methods

Study on Illegal Wildlife Trade Based on Gray Prediction and TOPSIS Methods

Research on Trends in Illegal Wildlife Trade based on Comprehensive Growth Dynamic Model

Research on Trends in Illegal Wildlife Trade based on Comprehensive Growth Dynamic Model

Illegal wildlife trade measuring based on data-driven analyses

Illegal wildlife trade measuring based on data-driven analyses

A conflict of visions: Ideas shaping wildlife trade policy toward African megafauna

Abstract Among factors that threaten wild populations of African megafauna, wildlife trade has gained prominence as a global policy issue, with concerted international campaigns aiming to influence the trade of species such as elephants, rhinos and lions. Trade policy is strongly contested, confounding attempts to develop coherent approaches across jurisdictions and through international mechanisms such as the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES). This undermines conservation efforts. Understanding the drivers of such conflict may help to address this problem. Scholars of political science increasingly recognise the power of ideas as drivers within policy processes. Guided by this literature, we developed an analytical framework and conducted a thematic analysis to examine the ideas driving wildlife trade policy conflict. Our nested case study approach examined debates over trade policy toward African elephants, rhinos and lions at two levels: the international policy arena of CITES and within a single country, South Africa. Informed by earlier literature, we tracked the evolution of international trade policy debates over a 4‐year period (2016–2019) and analysed submissions to a national policy review process in South Africa that took place during 2020. During the study period, state and non‐state actors contributed to vigorous trade policy debates within seven key thematic issues across the case study species. Arguments were driven by both cognitive ideas, which specify cause‐and‐effect relationships, and normative ideas, which are values‐based and especially salient elements of anti‐trade stances. Fusing these cognitive and normative ideational elements, we identified three distinct overarching narratives relating to wildlife trade policy. These three narratives align with broader environmental policy and political narratives and elucidate inherent tensions within the CITES arena. They also reveal differing ethical interpretations and perceptions of risk and precaution. Policy implications. Wildlife trade policy conflict is driven at least in part by competing ideological visions, which may be entrenched by the CITES Appendix listing system. The structural role of CITES in perpetuating this polarisation—and the consequences thereof—warrants further research. Read the free Plain Language Summary for this article on the Journal blog.

Illegal Wildlife Trade gives insights into suspected Feline Panleukopenia Virus (FPV) Occurrence in Puma concolor

Illegal Wildlife Trade gives insights into suspected Feline Panleukopenia Virus (FPV) Occurrence in Puma concolor

Early warning of trends in commercial wildlife trade through novel machine-learning analysis of patent filing

Unsustainable wildlife trade imperils thousands of species, but efforts to identify and reduce these threats are hampered by rapidly evolving commercial markets. Businesses trading wildlife-derived products innovate to remain competitive, and the patents they file to protect their innovations also provide an early-warning of market shifts. Here, we develop a novel machine-learning approach to analyse patent-filing trends and apply it to patents filed from 1970-2020 related to six traded taxa that vary in trade legality, threat level, and use type: rhinoceroses, pangolins, bears, sturgeon, horseshoe crabs, and caterpillar fungus. We found 27,308 patents, showing 130% per-year increases, compared to a background rate of 104%. Innovation led to diversification, including new fertilizer products using illegal-to-trade rhinoceros horn, and novel farming methods for pangolins. Stricter regulation did not generally correlate with reduced patenting. Patents reveal how wildlife-related businesses predict, adapt to, and create market shifts, providing data to underpin proactive wildlife-trade management approaches.

Microbe surveillance in the amphibian pet trade: Results from a pilot study

AbstractRegional and global trade of live animals can contribute to the spread and emergence of novel pathogens, including several important pathogens of amphibians. However, understanding the spread or even frequency of infections in large, complex amphibian trade networks has been difficult, in part because businesses tend to be reluctant to participate in surveillance programs. Thus, we developed a novel approach to surveillance in which anonymous participating businesses were sent surveillance kits through a trusted trade advocacy partner, samples were returned to researchers via anonymous prepaid envelopes, and results were provided via a secure website with access regulated by a unique personal identification number (PIN) created by the business. We tested samples for the amphibian pathogens, Batrachochytrium salamandrivorans (Bsal), Batrachochytrium dendrobatidis (Bd), and Ranavirus spp. (Rv), as well as the beneficial microbe, Janthinobacterium lividum (Jliv), using quantitative real‐time polymerase chain reaction (qPCR). Out of 120 businesses invited to complete an anonymous socioeconomic survey, 24 volunteered to participate in pathogen surveillance, of which 14 were sent surveillance kits. Eight of these businesses returned samples consisting of swabs collected from amphibians in 78 terrestrial habitats and water filters from 49 aquatic habitats. Copies of a highly conserved vertebrate gene (EBF3N), quantified using qPCR, were consistently low (<100 copies) in returned samples, but similar to those collected by researchers, indicating comparable sample quality. Three samples (from two facilities) had detectable levels of Bd DNA; Bsal, Rv, and Jliv were not detected. This pilot study provides evidence that information about pathogens in pet trade networks can be acquired by developing partnerships with industry, and business participation might be enhanced by ensuring anonymity and inclusion of a trade advocacy partner.

Visitation patterns of endangered grey parrots (Psittacus erithacus) in a forest clearing in the Democratic Republic of the Congo.

The grey parrot (Psittacus erithacus), once abundant, has become increasingly threatened due to the combined effects of capture for the global pet trade and habitat loss. Although grey parrots are well studied in captivity, effective conservation efforts require a better understanding of their ecological requirements in the wild. The aim of this paper is to quantify grey parrot behaviours across the annual cycle. To do that, we studied groups of grey parrots gathering in a natural forest clearing in the Nkuba Conservation Area, eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo. Using parrot counts and focal sampling, combined with descriptive statistics, we found that an average of 40 grey parrots visited the clearing each day, following a regular pattern in which they first perched in the trees surrounding the clearing, vocalizing loudly, until the group landed in the clearing to feed, drink and interact with each other. Generalized linear models (GLMs) and generalized additive models (GAMs) showed that the time at which parrots arrived, landed at, and left clearings was influenced by the weather, seasonality and the month of the year. We also found that parrots shortened their visits when disturbed by predators or the presence of humans. Although the underlying mechanisms for grey parrot visits to forest clearings remains unclear, the consistency of this behaviour observed elsewhere in Africa and the feeding observed in the clearing in this study suggest that these area support important foraging habitat for the wild grey parrots. Therefore, ensuring the availability of such clearings is paramount to the long-term survival of the species. We suggest that future efforts to protect grey parrots in their native habitats focus on identifying clearings visited by parrots, monitoring these clearings and allowing parrots to visit them without disturbance or risk of capture.

The economy behind the forest: Understanding the effects of hunting and wildlife trade on the lives of tambrauw people

Backgorund: The objective of this study is to assess the usage and economic significance of non-timber forest products (NTFPs) derived from animal hunting and trading in Warmandi Village and Weyaf Village, located in the Tambrauw Regency of Southwest Papua. Method: The research employed a descriptive methodology with a quantitative orientation. The collection of primary data involved the use of observation, interviews, and questionnaires with 13 key respondents who are employed as hunters in the two communities. Findings: The findings revealed that the primary commodities consist of four distinct wildlife species, specifically deer, wild boar, Mambruk birds, and tree kangaroos. The annual economic value of non-timber forest products (NTFPs) derived from wildlife amounted to Rp175,680,000. Wild boar made the highest contribution, accounting for 61% of the total value, followed by deer at 31%, Mambruk birds at 7%, and tree kangaroos at 1%. Non-timber forest product (NTFP) use is conducted through diverse methods, which encompass the trade of unprocessed, processed, and conserved meat. Game products are sold not only in Tambrauw Regency but also in the markets of Manokwari and Sorong Regencies. Conclusion: This study emphasizes the significance of sustainable management and government oversight in harnessing the economic potential of wildlife non-timber forest products (NTFPs) for the well-being of local populations. Novelty/Originality of this article: By revealing the specific economic value of different wildlife species, this study provides new insights into the importance of sustainable NTFP management in complex socio-ecological contexts.

Knowledge and perception of university undergraduate students about invasive alien species

The pet trade often introduces invasive alien species (IAS), causing harmful effects on native species. Additionally, limited awareness of the origins and impacts of IAS prevails among the public. This study aims to assess the knowledge and perceptions of university students regarding exotic species and the factors motivating the acquisition of exotic pets. To achieve this, an online survey was conducted among undergraduate students. From the surveyed group, 84% recognized IAS. However, misconceptions persisted, with 58.6% wrongly identifying IAS as native. The survey findings also revealed that social media motivate exotic pet ownership. Interestingly, while some IAS were perceived with tenderness and deemed deserving of legal protection, others were considered unsuitable for presence in Chilean ecosystems. Overall, the study underscores the significance of promoting awareness regarding IAS, their effects, and responsible exotic pet ownership to protect the fragile equilibrium of Chilean ecosystems.

Characterising dispersal and potential impacts of non‐native red swamp crayfish (Procambarus clarkii) populations in the coastal plain region of the pee Dee River basin, U.S.A.

Abstract Non‐native species can spread rapidly through aquatic ecosystems in association with both natural and anthropogenic mechanisms, but the relative importance of these two mechanisms in determining the spread of a species is not always clear. The red swamp crayfish (Procambarus clarkii) has been introduced to multiple continents, including waterbodies in the United States where both natural and anthropogenic dispersal are likely to have contributed to its current distribution. The present study combined comparisons of historical and contemporary distributions of P. clarkii and several high conservation priority crayfish species, regional field sampling, and microsatellite‐based genetic approaches from the Pee Dee River basin in North Carolina and South Carolina to understand the dispersal patterns of P. clarkii and its potential effects on native crayfishes. Field sampling and microsatellite analyses revealed widespread populations of P. clarkii throughout the study area with catchment‐specific patterns of population genetic structure, wherein more distinct genetic structures were found in the basin with historic aquaculture activities and a longer period of occurrence. The rapid spread of P. clarkii has occurred concurrently with extirpations of populations of native crayfishes, namely the Waccamaw crayfish (Procambarus braswelli), the Carolina Sandhills crayfish (Procambarus pearsei) and the coastal plain crayfish (Procambarus ancylus). The rapid spread of P. clarkii and coincident extirpation of native crayfishes calls for more extensive regulatory controls to help prevent the intentional or accidental release of non‐native crayfishes through aquaculture practices, bait releases, the pet trade and the environmental education industry.

Development and validation of a novel forensic STR multiplex assay for blue (Anthropoides paradiseus), wattled (Bugeranus carunculatus), and grey-crowned crane (Balearica regulorum)

The blue crane (Anthropoides paradiseus), wattled crane (Bugeranus carunculatus), and grey-crowned crane (Balearica regulorum) are species of concern as their populations are declining and they face several threats including habitat loss, disturbance and illegal trade. In South Africa, these species are bred in captivity for trade purposes which is permitted and regulated globally under the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES). Legal sustainable trade through captive breeding of endangered wildlife species such as cranes has been promoted to counteract the illegal trade of individuals from the wild. Captive breeding independent of wild populations may reduce the harvest pressures on wild bird populations which in turn benefit the recovery of exploited species. This approach is considered to be controversial by some individuals. Although captive breeding of endangered species, for both population sustainability and commercial purposes, is promoted to aid in conserving species, concerns have been raised with regards to breeding facilities being used for laundering of animals. To monitor the legal trade of cranes in South Africa a short tandem repeat (STR) assay following recommendations of the International Society for Forensic Genetics (ISFG) was developed and validated. An STR assay comprising of four multiplexes that include 16 STR markers and two gender determination markers was proven to be highly informative with average polymorphic information content (PIC) values of 0.806, 0.646 and 0.725 for A. paradiseus, B. regulorum and B. carunculatus respectively. In addition, the assay showed sufficient discriminatory power for parentage assignment of closely related individuals in all three species (A. paradiseus: PI = 1.7×10−24, PIsibs = 4.7×10−08, and B. carunculatus: PI = 1.4×10−19, PIsibs = 2.9×10−07 and B. regulorum: PI = 1.7×10−12, PIsibs = 5.0×10−05). Analysis of 251 samples suggested that the validated multiplex assay ensures reliability, reproducibility, and repeatability for applications in forensic case work where illegal trade of offspring is suspected through verifying parentage of captive birds in breeding facilities.

Role of local markets in illegal wildlife trade and conservation efforts for trafficked species

In recent years, there has been a noticeable increase in wildlife crime worldwide. In Benin, hunting activities are prevalent near protected areas, facilitating networks engaged in the illicit trade of wildlife products. Consequently, there is an urgent need to investigate the specific role of local markets in wildlife trafficking to support conservation efforts. This study examined 24 markets selling carcasses of animals and conducted interviews with forestry officers to compile a list of ex-situ wildlife management centres and the species they protect. A total of 161 wildlife species were identified, including 39 mammal species, 33 reptile species, and 89 bird species, whose products are traded in these markets. A substantial portion of these species is classified as endangered on the IUCN Red List and the appendices of the CITES convention. These products originate from both domestic and international sources, including Nigeria, Ghana, Burkina Faso, Niger, Cameroon, and Senegal. The beneficiaries of these trafficked products span populations in Benin, Nigeria, China, Burkina Faso, India, Ghana, Niger, and Togo. Interestingly, the proximity of markets to protected areas did not significantly impact species richness within the markets, although traded species reflected those found in protected areas. Furthermore, our investigation revealed 20 ex-situ wildlife management centres in Benin, demonstrating a strong correlation between species managed ex-situ and those traded. This study highlights the substantial pressure exerted by illegal wildlife trade on conservation efforts in Benin.

Research On the Strategy of Combating Illegal Wildlife Trade Based on Logistic Regression-ARIMA Model

Research On the Strategy of Combating Illegal Wildlife Trade Based on Logistic Regression-ARIMA Model