Sparkling fish, murky methods: the global aquarium trade

LES, Indonesia (AP) — Millions of saltwater fish are caught in Indonesia and other countries every year to fill aquariums around the world, contributing to the degradation of delicate coral ecosystems. While there are efforts to reduce some of the destructive and illegal practices, such as cyanide fishing, the trade is difficult to regulate and track as it stretches from small-scale fishermen in seaside villages through middlemen, export warehouses, international hubs and finally to pet stores in the U.S., China, Europe and elsewhere. A U.S. law prohibits the import and sale of fish caught using illegal methods, but experts say it is rarely applied.