An outline of the biology, distribution, and conservation of Neretva nase, Chondrostoma knerii (Actinopterygii: Cypriniformes: Cyprinidae), endemic to the Neretva River basin (Croatia and Bosnia and Herzegovina)

Abstract

Background. The Neretva nase, Chondrostoma knerii Heckel, 1843, is an endemic cyprinid species distributed in the Neretva River basin in Croatia and Bosnia and Herzegovina, designated in the EU Habitats Directive as a species requiring conservation within member states. According to the IUCN, the species is catalogued as vulnerable (VU). Available scientific data indicate that significant aspects of its biological and ecological characteristics, as well as conservation requirements, are scarce and largely composed of outdated records. This paper provides a summary of the main life history traits, particularly those related to the conservation challenges and a detailed list of the current state of knowledge. Material and methods. This review was based on published literature in the form of research articles, monographs, books and technical reports, as well as unpublished data Results. All available data were organized, critically analysed and presented in a comprehensive form. Issues related to species conservation were highlighted with respect to the impact of development activities. The longterm monitoring data of reproduction activity in the Hutovo Blato wetland were presented, showing the lowering of spring inflow capacity as the major factors for spawning success. Conclusion. This review will, hopefully, serve as foundation and indicative example for future research aimed at better understanding the origin and status of this fish species in order to assure effective management and conservation programs.

Summer Fish Migrations in the River Neretva (South-Eastern Adriatic Coast, Croatia) as a Consequence of Salinization

“…Although a very important ichthyologic and biodiversity area, the Neretva Delta (Croatia, Bosna and Herzegovina) has not been comprehensively researched with its marine and freshwater ecosystems. Most of the research partially addressed either the recruitment of the fi sh juveniles [5,13,19], individual marine species ecology [3,21], the ecological signifi cance of some freshwater fi sh endemic species [19,31], or the evaluation of signifi cant habitats like Parila lagoon [35]. The recent biodiversity changes and invasions of fi sh and crabs reported ongoing invasions of blue crab, Callinectes sapidus in the brackish ecosystems [14,30] and records of several invasive marine fi sh [23] and freshwater fi sh [15, 22, 34,].…”