Recent research has revealed an alarming trend: nearly 25% of freshwater species, including fish and invertebrates, are at risk of extinction globally. These findings highlight the urgent need for conservation efforts to protect these vital ecosystems.
Threats to Freshwater Ecosystems
According to the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) Red List, of the 23,496 freshwater species assessed, more than half are affected by pollution caused by agriculture and forestry.
Key threats include:
Water Pollution: From agricultural chemicals and forestry activities.
Landscape Alteration: Conversion of land for agriculture and water extraction.
Loss of Wetlands: 35% of the world’s wetlands have been lost between 1970 and 2015 — a rate three times faster than forest loss.
Disrupted River Systems: 37% of rivers longer than 1,000 km no longer flow freely.
Invasive Species: Non-native species threatening local populations.
The highest numbers of threatened species have been recorded in regions such as Lake Victoria in Africa and Lake Titicaca in South America.
The Importance of Freshwater Ecosystems
Despite covering less than 1% of Earth’s surface, freshwater ecosystems:
Support over 10% of all known species, including one-third of all vertebrates.
Play crucial roles in ecosystem functions such as flood control, climate change mitigation, and providing livelihoods for billions of people.
Call to Action
Lead researcher Catherine Sayer emphasized that the lack of data can no longer serve as an excuse for inaction. She underscored the critical role freshwater ecosystems play in supporting both nature and human populations.
This research serves as a call to immediate action to preserve these unique ecosystems for future generations.