It is this resinous wood that is in demand and Aquilaria trees are often cut down indiscriminately in the search for it. The high value of agarwood products is also stimulating illegal harvest and trade in several range countries. Populations of eight Aquilaria species have already declined to the point where they are considered threatened and are included in the 2000 IUCN Red List. Of these, six are considered at risk from over-exploitation . Unless further action is taken to control agarwood harvest and trade, wild Aquilaria populations will continue to decline.
Sturgeon are a unique and valuable resource, both biologically and economically.
They come from an ancient line of fish and have thrown light on aspects of fish evolution. Some species live up to 100 years, only maturing at 25 years, and reach large sizes. They are also a key ecological component of the rivers and lakes they inhabit. They are extremely valuable for the caviar that many species produce, and the meat is also in great demand. The North American species were almost eliminated by over-exploitation early in the last century, but following years of strict protection, are now beginning to recover.