Under what circumstance are endangered species prohibited from being traded?

Endangered species are prohibited from being traded without federal approval due to the regulations established by laws such as the Endangered Species Act (ESA). This act is designed to protect species at risk of extinction and includes provisions that govern the trade of these animals and plants. Federal approval is required to ensure that any trade does not further threaten the survival of the species in question.

The legislation aims to preserve biodiversity and maintain population numbers by restricting commercial activities that could harm endangered species. Knowledge of these regulations is essential for anyone involved in activities that could impact wildlife, such as trapping or trading.

The other options do not reflect the comprehensive restrictions in place. Guidelines from federal sources are not a prerequisite for prohibiting trade; rather, it is the endangered status itself that triggers these regulations. Additionally, the native status of the species does not dictate trade restrictions, as endangered species can be both native and non-native. Lastly, while hunting regulations may intertwine with trade laws, the prohibition of trade itself is primarily dependent on federal approval rather than hunting practices.