Freshwater biodiversity threats and conservation constrains
Ivan Aranha
Department of Zoology, Ahmednagar College, Ahmednagar-414001 (India) Corresponding author: ivanaranha@gmail.com
ABSTRACT
The freshwater ecosystem is the most varied and vibrant ecosystem on this planet. It occupies less than 1% of the Earth’s surface making only 0.01% of the world’s available water sustaining more than 126,000 species. Due to its maximum share of planets biodiversity, they are global hotspots of biological richness with a high rate of decline too. Freshwater biodiversity is a priceless natural resource in terms of scientific, economic, educational and cultural aesthetics. Currently, it is in a very critical crisis and its conservation is vital. Overexploitation of resources, pollution through various anthropogenic ventures, water flow modification through dams and canals, habitat loss, exotic species invasion and their combined and interacting influences are the prime causes of vanishing freshwater biodiversity in Anthropocene. Apart from these direct threats climate change poses the greatest risk. Multiple stressors that lead to loss of sensitive species and an overall reduction in diversity increasingly influence freshwater ecosystems. Anticipating ecological responses to climate change rational and deliberate planning of engineering responses to climate change must be the pressing priority. Supplies of the freshwater ecosystem in terms of food capture to meet the demands of protein requirements will sustain only when freshwater ecosystems remain healthy. This review highlights the key forces declining freshwater biodiversity.