Global Wildlife Trade Involves 107,000+ Species, Double Previous Estimates

New research reveals that over 107,000 species are used and traded globally—more than double earlier estimates. The study, published in Science, analyzed data from the IUCN Red List, CITES trade records, and other sources to map the breadth of wildlife use, from pets and food to medicine and ornamental plants. Researchers warn the true number is likely much higher because most species lack trade or collection data, particularly in biodiversity-rich regions. This unprecedented scale underscores the urgent need for better monitoring and regulation to prevent overexploitation and extinction. The findings highlight that wildlife trade is not just a conservation issue but also a public health and biosecurity concern, as it increases the risk of zoonotic disease spillover. With millions of people depending on wild species for livelihoods, the study calls for balanced policies that support sustainable use while protecting vulnerable species. The gap between documented and actual trade suggests that current conservation efforts may be vastly underestimating the threat to global biodiversity.