TRADE OF HERPETOFAUNA AS ORNAMENTAL AND COMPANION ANIMALS IN THREE MARKETS IN MEXICO CITY

Abstract

Amphibians and reptiles have gained popularity as pets, and the number of species offered for sale is increasing. The need to carry out studies that analyze wildlife crime within countries has been recognized in order to have a better understanding of the phenomenon. In order to know how many species and which ones are sold in Mexico City, we conducted 14 visits to three major markets in Mexico City and conducted an analysis of the groups of amphibians and reptiles sold as pets and ornamental animals. We recorded a total of 31,919 individuals comprising 90 different species (14 amphibians, 76 reptiles) and found that 92.8% of the amphibians and 76.9% of the reptiles are protected by the Mexican government NOM-059, IUCN Red List and/or CITES. Significant differences (W = 3.14, p < 0.05) were found in the number of registered organisms of the amphibian species, as well as in the number of registered individuals per reptile species (W = 7.52, p < 0.001). We consider it necessary to evaluate all native species of amphibians and reptiles in the commercial market that could be included in sustainable use plans as a tool for their management.