Exotic Fish Store Owner Sentenced for Fish Trafficking

A Pittsburgh man who ran an exotic fish shop was sentenced after pleading guilty to trafficking endangered fish species.

The man was given five years of probation, including 180 days of home detention, and 225 hours of community service. 

He admitted to illegally buying and selling Asian Arowana, more commonly known as a Dragon Fish. The Asian Arowana is an endangered freshwater fish and is also considered to be an invasive species. The freshwater fish is often sold for tens of thousands of dollars. The exotic fish shop owner also admitted to selling the invasive and injurious snakehead fish.

These are serious crimes as they are considered to be part of exotic animal trading, as well as inviting invasive species into the area.

This story is a reminder of why buying from pet stores and fish shops is so harmful. Supporting the exotic pet trade in any way is never a good idea as these animals are not meant to be kept in captivity as pets.

Fish are not meant to live in an aquarium or small tank. Just like every other wild animal, fish deserve to be free in their natural habitat and are happier and healthier that way. 

Related Content:

• Cruel Reality Behind the Pet Trade of the Betta Fish, a Fish Often Marketed as an “Easy Starter Fish”
• 5 Animals That are Victims of the Exotic Pet Trade
• Respect for Fish Day: Planet’s Most Abused Animals Can’t Run Or Scream
• 10 Facts that Prove Fish are Highly Intelligent and Emotional Creatures
• WHAT?! Up to 90 Percent of Tropical Pet Fish are Illegally Caught With Cyanide

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