Aquatic Biodiversity Preservation Act of 2025

The Aquatic Biodiversity Preservation Act of 2025 directs the Secretary of Commerce to establish a program mapping the genetic code (genome) of priority aquatic species, including endangered fish, species linked to harmful algal blooms, and culturally significant species identified by tribes or Native Hawaiian organizations. Covered entities like federal agencies, states, tribes, universities, and nonprofits will collect samples, sequence genomes to high standards, and catalog data. All sequenced genomes must be made publicly available within 360 days (except for tribal-led projects, which retain control over data sharing), with $2 million annually allocated for 2025-2031 to fund this effort. The law aims to support conservation, management, and enforcement by creating a shared genetic database for scientists and policymakers.