Many species of marine animals are now considered threatened or endangered, because populations have been depleted by fishing, hunting, and collecting for food and trade. Among the threatened species are the seahorses, giant clams, top shells, corals, sea cucumbers, marine turtles, sharks and rays, etc. The capture, collection, trade, and utilization of these species have been regulated under the Convention on the International Trade of Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES) and/or through other international and national organizations.

Heightened public interest in environmental protection and resource conservation has become an important factor in fisheries development around the world, particularly, in policy formulation for and within the fisheries sector. Public opinion has sometimes exerted unreasonable pressure and restrictions on the fishing and fish farming industries. The Southeast Asian region has a highly diverse marine fauna and flora, many of which have been traditionally used for human food and commerce. Thus, the region is easily targeted by environment-oriented groups, especially those from developed western countries that do not share the same level of dependence on marine life.

In view of the above, it is necessary for the fisheries and aquaculture sectors in Southeast Asia, including research and development organizations like SEAFDEC, to address the environmental concerns raised by the international community particularly with regard to threatened or endangered species.