What is the impact of fish maw trade on endangered species?

Question

Accepted Answer

The fish maw trade is contributing to the endangerment of several fish species, with DNA evidence revealing the presence of critically endangered and endangered species in products sold in Malaysia and Singapore.

A study has identified DNA from six endangered and critically endangered fish species within fish maw products available in Malaysian and Singaporean markets. This discovery highlights a significant threat to these vulnerable populations, as the processing and trade obscure the origins of the fish maw, making it difficult to ascertain sustainability. The trade's structure, relying on broad commodity classifications, further exacerbates the issue by failing to differentiate between species, thereby masking the impact on threatened fish.
Critically Endangered Species Identified in Fish Maw Products

Researchers detected DNA from the European eel and the large yellow croaker, both classified as critically endangered by the IUCN, in samples procured from stores in Malaysia and Singapore. Notably, eleven samples contained DNA from the European eel, a species whose export has been banned by the European Union since 2010. This indicates a continued, albeit illicit, trade route for these protected species.
Blackspotted Croaker Most Frequently Detected Species

The blackspotted croaker, designated as near threatened by the IUCN, was the most prevalent species identified in the analysed fish maw. It was found in 58 out of 480 samples tested. While not yet critically endangered, its frequent appearance suggests significant pressure on its populations, potentially pushing it towards a more threatened status due to trade demand.
Broader Range of Endangered Species Involved

Beyond the European eel, large yellow croaker, and blackspotted croaker, the DNA analysis also revealed the presence of other endangered species. These include the cassava croaker, American eel, fourfinger threadfin, and iridescent shark. The identification of these diverse species underscores the widespread impact of the fish maw trade across multiple vulnerable fish populations.
Challenges in Verifying Sustainability and Origin

The processing of fish maw, which involves drying, flattening, cleaning, and washing the swim bladders, renders visual species identification nearly impossible. This reliance on genetic methods for accurate identification complicates efforts to regulate the trade and ensure sustainable sourcing. Furthermore, broad commodity classifications used in trade regulations often lump various dried fish products together, obscuring the specific species involved and their conservation status. Experts recommend avoiding fish maw if its species, country of origin, or sustainability cannot be verified, due to the risk of contributing to further endangerment as trade shifts to other depleted species.

Reading history

Hide →

This history is cleared when the page is closed.

What is the impact of fish maw trade on endangered species?

Loading

Was this article helpful?

Helpful

Not helpful

Report an issue

1

0

0

Share with friends