The rush for the rare : reptiles and amphibians in the European pet trade

Abstract

The exotic pet trade has been identified as a main threat to many reptile and amphibian species, especially for optically attractive species or those with special biological features. The international exotic pet trade is largely unregulated and in large parts still heavily depends on wild-caught specimens. Rarity sells, and species that are new to science or new on the pet market are highly sought-after and may fetch record prices. The European Union is a main hub and destination for both legally and illegally sourced wildlife. In the German town Hamm, one of the largest reptile trade shows in the world takes place four times a year, attracting traders and clients from across Europe and beyond. Based on ten case studies, our article illustrates marketing mechanisms and trade dynamics for reptiles and amphibians, which have only recently been described by science. The paper also highlights the problems of insufficient international legislation to prevent over-exploitation of such species or even those which are nationally protected in their country of origin, and presents solutions.