Abstract

Fishing for ornamental purposes begins in the Dominican Republic in the 80's. The country is consolidated as a medium-sized exporter of marine species destined for trading in recreational aquariums, exporting to 8 countries on three continents. The methodology and characteristics of this activity are described. The most important species and the export rates between 2008-2015 are listed. A total of 162 species distributed between invertebrates and fish are exported annually. Of this total, 43 families of fish are used, being Serranidae the one with the greatest number of species captured. Crustaceans are the most demanded group of invertebrates, with Pagurites cadenati at the head of exports. Finally, it is recommended to continue with the Order Resolution for the Fishing of Ornamental Marine Organisms to establish catch limits and conservation of the species captured.

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