Many aquariums nationwide expressed approval of Thursday's decision by the Japanese Association of Zoos and Aquariums to ban its members from buying dolphins caught in contentious hunts off Taiji in Wakayama Prefecture. They said the move will energize captive breeding.
However, others expressed puzzlement as to why a global industry body weighed in to stop the practice, and some said they would explore ways to get around the ban.
JAZA members voted on Wednesday to remain part of the World Association of Zoos and Aquariums, and JAZA has informed the global umbrella group of its intention to remain a member.