Golden mantella - London zoo 2007

Given that these are Critically Endangered, I'm surprised they're on the Availability List at the Pet Shop that I work in, meaning should we want to, we could get some in. And they have been available for some time.

The same is true for quite a few species of fish. The fact that a species is rare in the wild does not necessarily mean that it is not easy to keep and breed in captivity. When a species is as small, cute and attractive as the golden mantella, hobbyists have every incentive to breed their stock.

Alan

Indeed, today I found out someone in the local area are breeding a type of Marine Fish that is incredibly difficult to breed in captivity, and is turning it into a business, supplying to wholesalers all over the country.

Agreed, there is lotsa experience in private hands and a good load of double standards too both in acquisition and the unpalatable side of the animal trade to which us private breeders are prime culprit.

Now if I were judge, jury and executioner ... (take any pick of various possibilities along the lines of MP THE CUSHION). Pain without relief ... one would say!