Is a U.S. Certified Healthy Trade Program Feasible for Pet Amphibians?
Channel: Conservation and Adaptation Resources Toolbox
Date: 2022-10-25

The recent decline in wild populations of amphibians worldwide coincides with a period of rapid globalization and international trade of wildlife. The potential for pathogen transmission within and beyond the amphibian trade network makes it important to explore the attitudes and behavior of businesses and consumers involved in the industry. Over the past two years, we have developed relationships with the US pet amphibian industry through a partnership with the Pet Advocacy Network. In 2021, we performed a pilot study that characterized the knowledge, attitudes, and behaviors of businesses and consumers in US pet amphibian trade. In 2022, a planning team met to discuss creation of an industry-led certification program. During his talk, Dr. Gray will discuss the possible impacts of pathogens in wildlife trade networks, characterize the perceptions of US pet amphibian businesses and consumers, and share initial steps being undertaken to establish a US pathogen-free certification program for pet amphibians. 

Presented by Matthew Gray, University of Tennessee
October 25, 2022