GoKawiilGlobal pet trade accelerates reptile and amphibian extinction risk, IUCN data shows
Conservation researchers warn that the booming exotic pet industry, now worth $2.5 billion for reptiles alone, is contributing significantly to the decline of reptile and amphibian species worldwide. Species like the variable harlequin frog and giant bronze gecko have seen population crashes, compounding threats from habitat loss and disease with the added pressure of legal and illegal wildlife trafficking. The authors call for urgent action to close legal loopholes that allow illegally sourced animals to be laundered into legitimate markets.