A new study has found that about 90% of marine aquarium fish sold in the US are taken directly from the wild.
Researchers analysed 734 species and discovered most were caught from reefs in the western Pacific and Indian oceans.
The global aquarium fish trade is worth over US$2bn and sells around 55 million marine animals each year.
Lead author Dr Bing Lin said the trade’s “murky” supply chains hide the true origins of many fish.
Forty-five species listed as threatened or declining, including the Banggai cardinalfish and clarion angelfish, were found for sale.
“Many endangered species slip through trade rules and still reach the market,” Lin said.
Experts warn the unregulated trade could worsen biodiversity loss unless stronger oversight and eco-certification systems are introduced.
Dr Marian Wong said better information for hobbyists and careful management of wild capture are vital for sustainability.
