Elysia, I have no problems with species originating in US waters being cultured in the USA. Indeed, I am strongly in favor of it. You mentioned Hippocampus erectus, which is native to Florida. It makes more sense to collect or culture this species in the USA, rather than in net-pens in SE Asia.
I am still trying to obtain more information about whether Atlantic species of seahorses are being reared in net-pens in SE Asia. We need to know whether the culture methods used in SE Asia pose an environmental threat through the escape of exotic (non-native) species.
While I agree that information about holding methods and other conditions in exporters, importers, and wholesalers' systems is difficult to obtain, much information is available.
I suggest you read the paper that I wrote and the paper by Christina Schmidt (about holding and mortality info) that appeared on the SPC Live Reef Fish Information Bulletin (No. 13). You should be able to google their web site and download the papers.
Peter Rubec
I am still trying to obtain more information about whether Atlantic species of seahorses are being reared in net-pens in SE Asia. We need to know whether the culture methods used in SE Asia pose an environmental threat through the escape of exotic (non-native) species.
While I agree that information about holding methods and other conditions in exporters, importers, and wholesalers' systems is difficult to obtain, much information is available.
I suggest you read the paper that I wrote and the paper by Christina Schmidt (about holding and mortality info) that appeared on the SPC Live Reef Fish Information Bulletin (No. 13). You should be able to google their web site and download the papers.
Peter Rubec
