The cost of being valuable: Predictors of extinction risk in marine invertebrates exploited as luxury seafood

Steven W. Purcell, Beth Polidoro, Jean François Hamel, Ruth U. Gamboa, Annie Mercier

Research output: Contribution to journalArticlepeer-review

116 Scopus citations

Abstract

Extinction risk has been linked to biological and anthropogenic variables. Prediction of extinction risk in valuable fauna may not followmainstream drivers when species are exploited for international markets. We use results from an International Union for Conservation of Nature Red List assessment of extinction risk in all 377 known species of sea cucumber within the order Aspidochirotida, many of which are exploited worldwide as luxury seafood for Asian markets. Extinction risk was primarily driven by high market value, compounded by accessibility and familiarity (well known) in the marketplace. Extinction risk in marine animals often relates closely to body size and small geographical range but our study shows a clear exception. Conservation must not lose sight of common species, especially those of high value. Greater human population density and poorer economies in the geographical ranges of endangered species illustrate that anthropogenic variables can also predict extinction risks in marine animals. Local-level regulatory measuresmust prevent opportunistic exploitation of high-value species. Trade agreements, for example CITES, may aid conservation but will depend on international technical support to low-income tropical countries. The high proportion of data deficient species also stresses a need for research on the ecology and population demographics of unglamorous invertebrates.

Original languageEnglish (US)
Article number20133296
JournalProceedings of the Royal Society B: Biological Sciences
Volume281
Issue number1781
DOIs
StatePublished - Mar 5 2014

Keywords

  • Anthropogenic allee effect
  • Biodiversity conservation
  • Fisheries management
  • Opportunistic exploitation
  • Threatened and endangered species
  • Valuable fauna

ASJC Scopus subject areas

  • General Immunology and Microbiology
  • General Biochemistry, Genetics and Molecular Biology
  • General Environmental Science
  • General Agricultural and Biological Sciences

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