Part 4 of the Wildlife crime – understanding risks, avenues for action learning series explores how corruption facilitates marine species trafficking.
2. Introduction to trafficking in marine species
2.4. How much are marine species worth to poachers and consumers?
Illicit proceeds from the marine trade can be significant, attracting organised crime groups and criminals operating in legal companies and industries.
- The international trade in marine ornamental fishes is estimated to be worth over USD 1.5 billion.
- Beluga sturgeon can produce 150 kg of eggs (caviar) valued at USD 1,865 per kg.
- Hawksbill turtles can sell for more than USD 1,000 each.
- The glass eel trade is estimated to be worth billions of euros per year.
- The most highly valued species of dried sea cucumbers can fetch around USD 3,000 per kg in Chinese markets.
- Dried seahorses sell for anything from USD 600 to USD 3,000 per kg in Asian markets.
- The estimated value of 20,000 totoaba swim bladders seized in China in 2019 exceeded USD 110 million.