Quarter of World's Freshwater Fish at Risk of Extinction, According to Assessment
Global heating, pollution, overfishing, and falling water levels among factors hitting populations, finds IUCN red list study
Freshwater Fish at Risk
An expert assessment has revealed that nearly a quarter of the world's freshwater fish are at risk of extinction. Factors such as global heating, overfishing, and pollution are contributing to the decline of these species. This assessment marks the first International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) red list evaluation for freshwater fish.
From the large-toothed Lake Turkana robber in Kenya to the Mekong giant catfish in south-east Asia, many of these species are in danger of disappearing. Climate change is also a significant threat, with nearly a fifth of all threatened freshwater species affected by impacts such as falling water levels, shifting seasons, and the movement of seawater up rivers. Out of the assessed species, 3,086 out of 14,898 were identified as at risk of vanishing.
Threatened Species and Success Stories
The latest assessment also highlights the increasing threat to species such as mahogany, Atlantic salmon, and green turtles. Mahogany, one of the most sought-after plants commercially, has been classified as endangered after a 60% decrease in numbers over 180 years due to unsustainable harvesting. Atlantic salmon, once a common species, is now near threatened after a 23% decline in its global population, mainly due to habitat loss and global heating.
However, there are success stories within conservation efforts. The saiga antelope population, classified as critically endangered, has seen an incredible increase of 1,100% in just seven years, primarily in Kazakhstan. The scimitar-horned oryx, once disappeared in the 1990s, has made a comeback after reintroduction efforts in Chad. These examples demonstrate the power of coordinated local, national, and international conservation efforts.
Green Turtles and Urgent Action
Central south Pacific and east Pacific green turtles are also at risk of vanishing due to rising temperatures and ocean levels. These sea turtles are major bycatch in industrial and artisanal fishing, and their eggs are considered a delicacy in some countries. The increasing global temperatures are affecting their hatching success, and rising sea temperatures are causing flooding of nests.
The IUCN species survival commission freshwater fish specialist group emphasizes the integral role of freshwater fish species in ecosystems, food security, livelihoods, and economies. Proper management of freshwater ecosystems, maintaining free-flowing rivers with sufficient water and good water quality, is vital to prevent further species declines and ensure a climate-resilient world.
