Seahorses are among the many unfortunate victims of the illegal wildlife trade, particularly in the bustling streets of Metro Manila. Despite the enforcement of strict conservation laws, dried seahorses are still being sold in local marketplaces, according to a recent study published in the Philippine Journal of Science. Using DNA barcoding technology, researchers uncovered the extent of this illegal activity and emphasized the urgent need for action to protect these threatened marine species.

In Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), seahorses—members of the family Syngnathidae and genus Hippocampus—have long been highly valued. They are believed to possess properties that can treat or prevent various conditions, including infertility, kidney diseases, and asthma, as well as provide anti-aging, anti-tumor, and anti-fatigue benefits. This perceived medicinal value has fueled an international trade that places unsustainable pressure on seahorse populations.

The Philippines, renowned for its rich marine biodiversity, serves as both a source and a market for numerous marine species, including seahorses. Despite the protections offered by the Philippine Fisheries Code (Republic Act 8550) and the Wildlife Act (Republic Act 9147), the illegal trade of seahorses persists.

A study conducted by researchers from Far Eastern University and the DA-NFRDI utilized DNA barcoding to identify seahorse species being sold illegally. This advanced technique, which uses mitochondrial gene markers, is particularly effective for identifying processed or degraded specimens.

From 22 dried seahorse samples collected from TCM stores in Binondo, Manila, and aquatic pet shops in Pasay City, 15 samples were successfully sequenced. The analysis identified two primary species: Hippocampus kuda and Hippocampus comes.

Alarmingly, 78 percent of the samples from Binondo and 62 percent from Pasay were identified as H. kuda. Notably, all seahorse species are classified as “vulnerable” by the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN), underscoring the urgency of addressing this illegal trade.

The persistent trade underscores significant gaps in policy enforcement. Despite being listed under Appendix II of the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species (CITES), seahorses continue to be overexploited. Weak enforcement of existing laws and inadequate penalties exacerbate the problem, enabling illegal traders to operate with relative impunity. Researchers caution that this ongoing exploitation could result in catastrophic declines in seahorse populations, destabilizing marine ecosystems and reducing biodiversity.

The study highlights the urgent need for stricter monitoring and effective policy interventions. It recommends investigating trading behaviors and identifying key locations where dried seahorses are commercially sold, including black markets and TCM shops. Additionally, pinpointing the primary sources of live or fresh seahorse harvesting is critical to addressing the root of the problem. The authors also advocate for expanding the use of DNA barcoding to track other wildlife species affected by illegal trade, such as manta rays and sea dragons.

While the findings present a grim reality, the study demonstrates the potential of modern science to combat wildlife crimes. DNA barcoding not only facilitates species identification but also provides crucial evidence for law enforcement and conservation planning. With the implementation of robust measures, the Philippines can combat the illegal wildlife trade, ensuring that future generations can continue to marvel at the enigmatic seahorse thriving in its natural habitat. ### (Cyrenes Moncawe)

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Reference:

Bueno, K. P. R., Boleche, G. R. P., Cruz, L. J. A., Geronimo, A. J. C., Bugaoan, J. F. P., Rey, J. T. S., Santos, M. D., & Pereda, J. M. R. (2024). DNA barcoding of dried seahorses illegally sold in Metropolitan Manila, Philippines, as traditional Chinese medicine (TCM). Philippine Journal of Science, 153(6A), 2171–2183.Bottom of Form