Reptile Dealers and their Price Lists

Abstract. If one tracks the development of herpetoculture by using reptile dealer price lists as a source, major trends are apparent. Due to loss of biodiversity and the public perceptions about animal protection,
one will never again see the array of wild-caught amphibians and reptiles offered for sale 50 years ago —a statement as to how the world has changed. Changes are the result of shrinkage of wild populations due to habitat destruction, arrival of invasive species, chemical contaminants, infectious diseases, over-collecting, human consumption, reptile skin trade, and better captive husbandry and increased sophistication of the customers. We will examine the types of dealers (large-scale importers, biological supply houses, mass breeders, smaller private breeders, zoos and aquariums) from the perspective of animal availability, types of animals, quantities, and price. “Dealer” can mean collector (in the wild), exporter, trader, importer, and breeder. These persons were (or are) the sources of animals; their clientele were (and are) pet shops, pet owners, hobbyists, private breeders, schools and universities, traders, other
dealers, zoos, museums, aquariums, and roadside attractions. There is a broad spectrum encompassed
by suppliers and customers.