We are Saving Nemo and other aquarium species from overcollection
Over 1 million individuals from the clownfish family (Pomacentridae) are taken from the reef EVERY YEAR for the aquarium trade. This overcollection, coupled with coral bleaching, is causing local extinctions and significant population declines. The good news is that clownfish can be easily bred in captivity, unlike Regal Blue Tangs (Dory), where 100% are still being taken from the wild.
Our solution is to supply aquarium stores with nursery bred fish, to educate consumers and to lead scientific research focussed on conservation.
We exist to protect marine aquarium species for future generations.
OUR STORY
The take-home message from the hit Walt Disney movie Finding Nemo is clear – don’t take fish off the reef.
At the time the film was released some of us were working in aquarium stores and saw the massive increase in demand for clownfish- everyone wanted one but few were aware that these fish were being taken from the wild for pets.
A decade after the film, clownfish continue to be highly sought-after and marine biologists are now discovering that in areas like the Great Barrier Reef and Philippines where they are being collected, wild populations are declining. Yep that is right, we can't find Nemo on some reefs anymore.
In an effort to prevent extinction, we and many others began breeding clownfish to supply local aquarium shops with a more sustainable and eco-friendly option.
Behind Saving Nemo is a passionate group of science educators, aquaculturists and marine biologists. We have pooled together our expertise for the sole purpose of funding nursery-breeding programs to stop the demand for wild caught fish, establishing research projects that help conserve wild populations and running education programs that enable people to learn how to protect, breed and care for marine ornamental fish.
