What is the primary goal of CITES?

The primary goal of CITES, or the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora, is indeed to prevent the illegal trade of endangered species. This international agreement aims to ensure that international trade in specimens of wild animals and plants does not threaten their survival. By regulating and monitoring trade practices, CITES works to protect various species that are at risk due to poaching, over-exploitation, and habitat loss, thereby contributing significantly to global biodiversity conservation efforts.

Other choices, while they may be related to conservation efforts, do not directly align with the foundational purpose of CITES. Promoting animal tourism can sometimes conflict with conservation aims if it leads to habitat disruption or exploitation. Documenting all species globally is more aligned with biodiversity databases and research organizations rather than CITES specifically. Enhancing breeding programs in zoos is typically a function of individual institutions aimed at species preservation but is not the primary mandate of CITES, which focuses on trade regulation. Understanding CITES' role highlights the importance of international cooperation in conserving biodiversity and protecting endangered species from the pressures of illegal trade.