A new study has revealed that 90% of marine aquarium fish sold by major US retailers come directly from the wild.
Researchers found most fish are caught in the western Pacific and Indian oceans, with little transparency from “reef to retail.”
Globally, about 55 million marine animals are sold each year in a trade worth over US$2bn, driven largely by US demand.
Among the 734 species analysed, 45 are listed as threatened or declining, including the Banggai cardinalfish and clarion angelfish.
“Many threatened species slip through global trade rules,” said Dr Bing Lin from the University of Sydney, who led the study.
Experts warn unregulated harvesting could further endanger wild populations and disrupt delicate reef ecosystems.
They call for stronger traceability, eco-certification, and consumer awareness to ensure sustainable and ethical sourcing.
“This trade is incredibly opaque,” Lin said. “We need clear oversight to protect biodiversity and support responsible fisheries.”
