Freshwater ecosystems, which cover approximately 1% of Earth’s surface, support over 10% of all known species. However, these habitats face significant challenges, as outlined in a recent study published in Nature.” Researchers evaluated 23,496 freshwater species, including fish, crustaceans, and insects, and discovered that 24% are at high risk of extinction. Key threats include pollution, dam construction, water extraction, agricultural activities, invasive species, and overharvesting. Notable endangered species include the mini blue bee shrimp of Sulawesi, the Atlantic helicopter damselfly of Brazil, and the shortnose sucker fish of North America. These species live in wetlands, lakes, rivers, and peatlands, areas that have shrunk by more than a third since 1970. The study highlights the importance of these ecosystems for biodiversity and the need for urgent conservation efforts.

Freshwater habitats provide essential ecosystem services, such as carbon sequestration, fisheries, and natural resources, contributing an estimated $50 trillion annually to global well-being. Regions with the highest number of endangered species include Lake Victoria in Africa, Lake Titicaca in South America, and parts of India and Sri Lanka. Researchers emphasized that threats such as pollution and invasive species require immediate attention. Conservationists advocate for integrated water management approaches that balance human water needs with ecosystem preservation. This study also serves as a baseline for tracking progress in reducing threats to freshwater species. Enhanced protections and strategic interventions are crucial to safeguarding these ecologically and economically vital ecosystems.