The ornamental fish trade supplies millions of coral reef fish to the aquarium hobby globally, with significant welfare implications from collection methods through to home aquarium keeping.
Coral reef fish welfare in the ornamental trade is compromised at multiple stages: collection methods including cyanide use, transport in overcrowded conditions, handling, storage at wholesalers, and finally the aquarium environment itself. The high early mortality rate in imported reef fish reflects the cumulative stress of this journey. At the aquarium stage, reef fish have complex spatial, dietary, and social needs that home aquaria typically cannot meet. Responsible reef fishkeeping requires sourcing from certified sustainable and welfare-conscious suppliers, thorough research into species requirements, and commitment to providing appropriate conditions for the lifetime of the animal.