Examinations of the Ember of Invasive Species Problems: Trade Turnover of Cumberland Sliders Trachemys Scripta Troostii in the Pet Shops of Eastern Poland

In Poland, just like in many other countries, selling Red-eared terrapins Trachemys scripta elegans as invasive has been prohibited, but there are other subspecies of Trachemys scripta on the pet market, constituting a threat to the native Pond turtle Emys orbicularis. I provide data on the structure of local trade in turtles in eastern Poland and the factors driving it after the introduction of a ban on trade in Red-eared terrapins. I also point out the role of Cumberland sliders Trachemys scripta troostii in replacing the banned subspecies. The dominant role of Cumberland sliders on the market resulted in cases of their unlawful introduction into the environment and the appearance of free-living individuals in Poland. The conclusions of the study point to the significance of economic mechanisms in preventing the dispersal of invasive species.