New research shows about 90% of marine aquarium fish sold by major US retailers are taken directly from the wild.
The study, led by Dr Bing Lin from the University of Sydney, found most fish come from the western Pacific and Indian oceans.
Globally, around 55 million marine animals are traded each year, in a $2.15bn industry dominated by US demand.
“Much of the trade is opaque – from reef to retail,” said Lin, noting that many buyers don’t know their fish are wild-caught.
Among the species sold were 45 listed as threatened, including Banggai cardinalfish and clarion angelfish.
Many endangered species bypass international trade protections, ending up on the market despite conservation rules.
Lin called for stronger oversight, better traceability, and credible eco-certification to ensure sustainable sourcing.
Dr Marian Wong from the University of Wollongong warned poor management could harm wild populations and disrupt social fish groups.
“The more information we have, the better choices we can make,” Wong said.
