A recent global study has revealed alarming findings about freshwater biodiversity, indicating that nearly a quarter of freshwater species, including fish, dragonflies, and crustaceans, are at risk of extinction. Conducted by a team of over 1,000 researchers, the study highlights the meaningful threats posed by pollution, dam construction, agriculture, and invasive species. Since 1975, 35% of the world’s wetlands have been lost, severely impacting ecosystems that support 10% of all known species. Eva B. Thorstad, a researcher at NINA and a leader in the IUCN’s expert group on salmonids, emphasizes the urgent need for strategic action to halt biodiversity loss. While Norway has relatively few freshwater species, local ecosystems are still under threat from human activities, pollution, and climate change, necessitating immediate conservation efforts.
Norway boasts an abundance of clean freshwater, a unique resource that requires vigilant protection, according to Eva B. Thorstad. The latest Norwegian Red List highlights the plight of several species, including the critically endangered noble crayfish and various dragonflies, while migratory fish like eels and salmon face significant threats due to barriers in their habitats. Thorstad emphasizes the need for tailored conservation strategies, noting that while salmon can benefit from local management efforts, the European eel’s international life cycle necessitates cross-border cooperation for effective preservation. As freshwater fauna face increasing extinction risks, proactive measures are essential for safeguarding these vital ecosystems.
Q&A Interview: Freshwater Biodiversity at Risk - Insights with Eva B. Thorstad
Time.news Editor: Thank you for joining us today, Eva B. Thorstad, a leading researcher at NINA and part of the IUCN’s expert group on salmonids. Your insights into freshwater biodiversity are invaluable, especially in light of the recent global study suggesting alarming extinction risks for freshwater species. What were some of the most surprising findings from this study?
Eva B. Thorstad: Thank you for having me. One of the most shocking revelations is that nearly 25% of freshwater species, encompassing fish, dragonflies, and crustaceans, are at risk of extinction. This underscores the urgent need for detailed understanding and action. The compounded effects of pollution, dam construction, agriculture, and invasive species have increasingly threatened these ecosystems. It’s a wake-up call that we must address immediately.
Time.news Editor: The loss of wetlands at such a staggering rate—35% since 1975—certainly stresses the urgency. Can you elaborate on why wetlands are so crucial for biodiversity?
Eva B. Thorstad: Absolutely. Wetlands are incredibly rich ecosystems that support about 10% of all known species. They serve as vital habitats for many freshwater species and act as natural filters for pollutants. Losing these areas degrades the entire ecosystem from the microbial level up, affecting not just individual species but the intricate web of life that depends on them.
Time.news Editor: In Norway, how do these global trends affect local freshwater ecosystems, especially given that the country is known for its clean water resources?
Eva B. Thorstad: While Norway does have relatively fewer freshwater species, our ecosystems are still under threat. human activities, pollution, and climate change pose significant risks. For instance, the latest Norwegian red List highlights species like the critically endangered noble crayfish and various dragonflies that are in peril. Even migratory fish like eels and salmon face barriers in their habitats due to human infrastructure.
Time.news Editor: What strategies do you beleive can be implemented to protect these vital ecosystems effectively?
Eva B. Thorstad: Tailored conservation strategies are essential. For salmon, local management efforts can yield positive results, focusing on habitat restoration and pollution reduction. However, for species like the European eel, which has a complex international lifecycle, cross-border cooperation is necessary. This means developing joint conservation plans with neighboring countries to ensure their migratory paths remain intact.
Time.news Editor: With extinction risks on the rise for freshwater fauna, what practical advice would you offer to individuals and communities looking to contribute to conservation efforts?
Eva B. Thorstad: Individuals can play a crucial role in conservation. Simple actions, like reducing plastic use, participating in local clean-up initiatives, and promoting native plant growth in their gardens, can make a difference. Community involvement in monitoring local waterways and advocating for sustainable agricultural practices can build awareness and foster proactive change. Engaging with local conservation groups can also amplify efforts to protect these species.
Time.news Editor: Thank you, Eva, for shedding light on these urgent challenges and potential solutions. Your expertise is vital as we strive to safeguard freshwater biodiversity for future generations.
Eva B.Thorstad: Thank you for this prospect. It’s imperative that we unite in our efforts to protect these ecosystems—not only for the species that inhabit them but for the health of our planet as a whole.