Illegal trafficking of primates in markets in the province of Maynas (Loreto, Peru)

Aquino R.; Atías G.; Contreras G.; Tapia J.; Benites A. · Revista de Investigaciones Veterinarias del Peru (2026) · DOI: 10.15381/rivep.v37i2.33298

Resumen

The study focused on identifying primate species offered for sale in markets in the province of Maynas (Loreto, Peru). Visits were made to nine formal and informal markets in the districts of Belén, Iquitos, and Punchana to record the species for sale, as well as to ascertain their price and origin. Seventy-nine market visits were conducted from November 2023 to August 2024. Five primate species (20 individuals) were observed for sale between November 2023 and January 2024, and none in the following months. No other mammals were observed for sale at any point during the study. The only markets where primates were observed for sale were Puerto Belén, Modelo, and Masusa, with prices varying by species from S/20.00 to S/45.00 (US$ 1 = S/3.38).

Instituciones: Universidad Nacional Mayor de San Marcos; Universidad Nacional de la Amazonía Peruana