La pesca de organismos marinos ornamentales y su impacto en los arrecifes de coral

Abstract

Fishing for ornamental purposes began in the Dominican Republic in the 1980s. The country is consolidated as a medium exporter of marine species destined for the recreational aquarium trade, exporting to 8 countries on three continents. The most important impacts on coral reefs are described and how this activity is carried out in the country is detailed. The most important species and export rates for 2016-2019 are listed. A total of 162 species distributed between invertebrates and fish are exported annually. Of this total, 43 families of fish are used, Serranidae being the one with the largest number of species caught. Crustaceans constitute the group of invertebrates most in demand, with Pagurites cadenati at the head of exports. Finally, it is recommended to continue with the Ordering Resolution for the Fishing of Marine Organisms of Ornamental Interest to establish catch levels and preservation of the species caught.