The decline of North American freshwater fishes
North America has a broad array of freshwater ecosystems because of the continent's complex geography and geological history. Within a multitude of habitats—that include streams, large rivers, natural lakes, springs, and wetlands—rich assemblages of fishes reside, representing diverse taxonomic groups with unique ecological requirements. They face an unprecedented conservation crisis.1 In the last few decades, the proportion of inland fishes of North America, which are considered imperiled or extinct, increased from 20 to 40%.2 Although extinctions have occurred, many species and populations are declining in range size and abundance. The fish biota of the continent as a whole remains diverse; however, we can take action to stem any further declines.
Citation Information
Publication Year | 2009 |
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Title | The decline of North American freshwater fishes |
Authors | Stephen J. Walsh, Howard L. Jelks, Noel M. Burkhead |
Publication Type | Article |
Publication Subtype | Journal Article |
Series Title | ActionBioscience |
Index ID | 70003605 |
Record Source | USGS Publications Warehouse |
USGS Organization | Southeast Ecological Science Center |