I don't think an outright ban on xl large fish is justified based on
their size alone. There are a number of factors to be consider. First
and foremost, can the fish live a quality of life in a captive
enivornment? Obviously size of the fish does come into play. In
addition, issues like does the fish school and how many fish does it
require to school to give the fish a sense of security? Another issue
is the activity level of the fish? Is it rather sessil and bottom
dewler or is highly active pelagic fish? In all fairness, some fish,
including these xl species tend not to move very far from their
territories, e.g. ambush preditors like the Nile Puffer. Despite their
size (18 inches), they can do fair well in a suitably sized tank around
120 gallons. The point being, an outright ban on xl fish is not really
justified. Each fish has to be taken into account.
In addition, we as fishkeepers must put the pressure on fish stores to
stop tolerating fish exporters filling up boxes with xl fish and for
them to stop carrying them as regular stock. I know when I see things
like Red-tail catfish in the store, I express my concerns. In
addition, when I see fish stores not stock xl, dyed and generally
acting responsible, I let them know that I am very pleased.
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