Illegal trade in wildlife is threatening Costa Rica's biodiversity. The most sought after species are the limpets, parrots, jaguar cubs, toucans, squirrel monkeys and tropical fish. "We don't have the resources to control the illegal trade," said Juan Rodriguez, a biologist with the country's ministry of environment and energy. According to him, most of the arrested traffickers are set free after they pay a minimal fine ranging between us $156-312. He opines that the small amount of fine encourages the illegal trade.
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