A landscape analysis and one health approach to an invasive species pathway: Pet and aquaria trade in the eastern Caribbean

Abstract

Background

The pet and aquaria trade is a pathway for the introduction of invasive alien species (IAS) into sensitive Caribbean ecosystems. This study aims to assess the impact of this trade on IAS management in the Caribbean.

Methods

A multipronged approach was used, involving stakeholder engagement, trade flow analysis, questionnaires, a regional IAS workshop, and a One Health Invasive Alien Species Prioritization (OHIASP) method, to examine the pet and aquaria trade in Barbados and the Organisation of Eastern Caribbean States (OECS). These methods allow for a comprehensive tool necessary to prioritise IAS challenges worldwide particularly in Barbados and the OECS.

Results

The study assessed seven Caribbean countries: Barbados, St. Lucia, Grenada, Dominica, St. Kitts and Nevis, St. Vincent and the Grenadines, and Antigua and Barbuda. Barbados reported the highest annual import values for pets (USD $371,604) and aquaria (USD $450,860) using data from 2016 to 2020. The species range was very narrow and likely a reflection of data collection systems. Trinidad and Tobago was the primary regional source for pet and aquaria imports. In total, 35 IAS were chosen for prioritization. Based on their weighted score, prioritized IAS were ranked in order of relative importance using a one-to-five selection scale. A priority list of 13 IAS was identified from the pet/aquaria imported into Barbados and the OECS.

Conclusions

This marks the first ever study using an OHIASP tool for examining, quantifying and ranking IAS risks in pet and aquaria trade pathways. This can assist zoonotic disease risk prioritization where necessary. Effective IAS management in the Caribbean requires multipronged approaches, data and information systems that integrate indigenous knowledge, leverage digital tools, and build community ownership, to overcome inherent regional vulnerabilities.