Conservation and Broodstock Management: International Trade in
Sturgeon and Paddlefish Species - the Effect of CITES listing
C. Raymakers-2002
International Review of Hydrobiology, 87(5-6):
525-537
Abstract:
Since 1 April 1998, the international trade in
Acipenseriformes (25 species of sturgeon and 2 paddlefish) is monitored and
controlled under CITES (Convention on International Trade in Endangered
Species of Wild Fauna and Flora). CITES trade data for 1998 suggest that the
international trade in caviar is substantial, totalling 275 tonnes, and
dominated by a few nations: 95% of the caviar is exported and imported by
less than 20 countries. The 1998 world exports, as reported by CITES
Parties, also included 44.6 tonnes of sturgeon meat and 0.5 million live
specimens (juveniles and fertilised eggs) of sturgeon and paddlefish. Data
analysis and consultation with relevant authorities and traders indicate
that CITES listing of all Acipenseriformes has resulted in better monitoring
and control of the international trade of these species. Range states were
recommended to establish annual export quotas for specimens and products of
Acipenseriformes, but the scientific bases for setting these quotas are
often unclear and would benefit from verification by independent experts.
This mechanism was initiated following the decision adopted in April 2000 of
incorporating Acipenseriformes in the Significant Trade Review of CITES.
Primary results concluded that for six species (Acipenser gueldenstaedti,
A. nudiventris, A. schrencki, A. stellatus, Huso
huso and H. dauricus) the provisions of CITES were not
implemented properly by range States and international trade may therefore
be detrimental to the survival of wild populations. Under the Significant
Trade Review CITES has the capacity to influence the conservation strategy
implemented by exporting countries that are Parties to the Convention. It is
an on-going process that will continue as long as the CITES forum considers
that ranges States do not comply with CITES provisions.
(TRAFFIC Europe Regional Office, Boulevard Emile
Jacqmain 90, B-1000 Brussels, Belgium, e-mail: craymakers@traffic-europe.com)