Harmonizing Conservation with Livelihood: Aquaculture of Marine Ornamentals, A Model

The marine ornamental aquaculture and aquarium trade is a daybreak industry in the aquaculture sector, and the captive culture of them is a growing enterprise worldwide. As a result, the trade is expanding and has grown into a multi-dollar initiative. The increasing demand for marine organisms in the market appears to be a very lucrative venture. Most of the trading animals are being collected from the coral reef regions. This is one of the major threats to the marine environment, as coral reef regions provide various ecosystem services and also serve as a breeding and rearing ground for many treasured organisms. This warrants an alternative option such as captive propagation for meeting the ever-increasing demand. The action will reduce the pressure on the wild stock and also provide an alternate source of income for the coastal and island communities across the country. In this context, the article focuses on the importance and status of marine ornamentals and on the research initiatives on captive breeding, culture, technology dissemination, and adaptation. Moreover, special attention has been given to the Indian context.