Invasive species in the aquarium trade: Survey of attitudes, behaviors, and knowledge among US participants
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Abstract
Although the aquarium trade is an important pathway for direct and indirect non-native species introductions into freshwater systems, knowledge and attitudes of participants in the trade regarding alien species issues is largely undocumented. Therefore, we administered a survey to investigate attitudes and behaviors of aquarists and non-aquarists regarding the aquarium trade as a pathway for invasive species introductions. We hypothesized aquarists would be better educated on potential introductions than non-aquarists. Due to their engagement with organisms and replication of natural habitats, we also expected aquarists would exhibit more positive attitudes and behaviors toward the environment than non-aquarists. Most respondents seemingly understood the severity of invasive species problems, regardless of status as an aquarist. Aquarists thought the aquarium trade was less responsible for species introductions than non-aquarists and also felt more aware of laws regarding invasive species. However, over half of aquarists disposed of aquarium water down a drain in their house or directly into a nearby water body, which is a known mode of invasion. This information can inform further efforts to provide educational opportunities for participants in the non-native pet/aquarium trade, with the goal of enhancing protection efforts for native biodiversity.
Study Area
| Publication type | Article |
|---|---|
| Publication Subtype | Journal Article |
| Title | Invasive species in the aquarium trade: Survey of attitudes, behaviors, and knowledge among US participants |
| Series title | Hydrobiologia |
| DOI | 10.1007/s10750-025-05930-1 |
| Edition | Online First |
| Volume | 853 |
| Publication Date | July 05, 2025 |
| Year Published | 2026 |
| Language | English |
| Publisher | Springer |
| Contributing office(s) | Wetland and Aquatic Research Center |
| Description | 17 p. |
| First page | 281 |
| Last page | 297 |
| Country | United States |
| State | Alabama, Arkansas, Florida, Iowa, Louisiana, Mississippi, Missouri, Texas |