Assessing the risk of overexploitation to a tarantula species in the pet trade

Journal article

The global pet trade in invertebrates remains poorly understood and underrepresented in policy and research. Tarantulas are a highly traded invertebrate group. Many individuals in trade are wild caught, and trade regulation is often lacking, raising concerns about the effect of trade on local ecosystems and populations. We addressed local concerns surrounding the international trade of Tapinauchenius rasti (Caribbean diamond tarantula), which is endemic to Saint Vincent and the Grenadines. We assessed the extinction risks associated with this widely traded species by analyzing supply of and demand for the species with the COM-B (capability, opportunity, motivation, behavior) model. This model breaks down decision-making into capability, opportunity, and motivation. We interviewed stakeholders throughout the supply chain and analyzed content of an online hobbyist forum and a time series of prices for this species and other tarantulas. In terms of motivation, there was limited preference for the Caribbean diamond tarantula due to its morphology and behavior. In terms of opportunity, the species was readily available, primarily through captive breeding. Collecting wild specimens is challenging due to enforcement measures and logistical difficulties, making it an unprofitable endeavor. In terms of capability, the species was relatively low in price, likely because it is easy to breed in captivity. As a result, the current wildlife trade does not pose a significant threat to the Caribbean diamond tarantula. Our methodology can serve as a valuable tool for assessing potential threats posed by trade to other spider species and possibly other invertebrates. Understanding these threats is crucial for promoting responsible and sustainable trade practices that minimize risks to wild populations while ensuring equitable benefits for communities coexisting with wildlife.

Authors: Rivera, SN; Joanny, L; Vique, I; Middleton, R; Verissimo, D

• Publication status: Published
• Peer review status: Peer reviewed
• Publisher: Wiley
• Journal: Conservation Biology
• Volume: 38
• Issue: 5
• Article number: e14362
• Place of publication: United States
• Publication date: 2024-09-09
• Acceptance date: 2024-02-15
• DOI: 10.1111/cobi.14362
• EISSN: 1523-1739
• ISSN: 0888-8892
• Pmid: 39248781
• Language: English
• Keywords: mercado de fauna; 蛛形纲动物; arachnid; invertebrates; trade dynamics; wildlife trade; arácnido; dinámicas de mercado; 无脊椎动物; 贸易动态; 野生动物贸易; invertebrados