Scientists Warn of Freshwater Crisis, Claiming One in Four Species Faces Extinction

A recent study reveals a dire situation for freshwater ecosystems, which cover less than 1% of Earth’s surface yet support over 10% of all known species, Earth.com reported in an article. Alarmingly, nearly 25% of these species, approximately 4,294, are at high risk of extinction, according to the International Union for Conservation of Nature’s (IUCN) Red List.

Key groups facing threats include crabs, crayfish, and shrimp, with 30% classified as endangered, while 26% of freshwater fish and 16% of dragonflies are also at risk. Major threats stem from pollution, habitat loss, invasive species, and overfishing, significantly impacting biodiversity and ecosystem services.

Regions like Lake Victoria, Lake Titicaca, and the Western Ghats are highlighted as hotspots for endangered freshwater species. The study underscores the urgent need for conservation efforts to protect these vital ecosystems, which are crucial for billions of people’s livelihoods and ecological balance. The findings are published in the journal Nature.