The contribution of the pet turtle industry to the Louisiana economy

Abstract Aquaculture makes a substantial contribution to economic activity in Louisiana. The Louisiana pet turtle industry is a less well‐known aquaculture industry, which contributes substantially to economic activity, especially at the local level. A modified version of an input‐output model, constructed with IMPLAN, is used to evaluate the industry's impact on the state economy. The industry is estimated to generate 9. 703 million in total output, 4. 696 million in Gross State Product, 3. 625 million in labour income and 882 jobs in the Louisiana economy. This impact would be expected to be pronounced in smaller towns. A recently developed use of the industrial chemical Vantocil could lead to the lifting of the ban by the FDA on the domestic sale of baby pet turtles. Such a development should result in significant growth in the pet turtle industry, which would in turn enhance its contribution to the economy of Louisiana communities.