Samarkand, 2 December 2025 – Parties adopted measures to strengthen and clarify the use of Source Code R (ranching) for aquatic species, ensuring it is applied only when supported by clear scientific evidence and used in line with its original intent.
This is a major step forward for marine conservation — especially for the Humphead wrasse (Cheilinus undulatus), a species heavily targeted for captive grow-out as a luxury food items, mainly in mainland China and Hong Kong. Despite CITES-listing (monitoring trade), the species remains Endangered, and its wild populations have not benefited from current “ranching” approaches nor since it was listed on Appendix II in 2005 which requires non-detriment findings and its populations are decreasing.
By tightening rules around Source Code R, Parties have taken a meaningful step toward reducing inadequate practices of ranching of aquatic species.
A big thank you to all Parties and observers who worked to advance this issue. This decision brings new hope for the Humphead wrasse and many other vulnerable aquatic species – in the future this will potentially also be important for marine ornamental fishes in the aquarium trade and being bred in captivity, although today still few species reproduce when in aquaria.
#CITES#CoP20#Conservation#MarineWildlife#HumpheadWrasse#IUCN#biodiversity
Photo: Derek Keats, pexels.comPhoto by Derek Keats:
