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Facing extinction: How can Coregonus fish find a new lease of life amid conservation laws?
With global environmental changes, many species are facing the threat of extinction, and fish in the genus Coregonus are no exception. Coregonus belongs to the family Salmonidae, which includes a variety of fish commonly known as whitefish, with a diverse range of species, about 68 species have been described, and some species have become extinct or endangered in the past 100 years. These fish mainly inhabit lakes and rivers. Some species, such as Arctic salmon (C. autumnalis) and Belling salmon (C. laurettae), are migratory and can migrate between saltwater and freshwater.
"All Coregonus fish species are protected under Annex III of the Berne Convention and Annex IV of the EU Habitats Directive."
The conservation status of Coregonus fish reveals the significant impact of environmental change and human activities on this species. Particularly in Europe's Alpine lakes, many local whitefish species are under pressure, prompting conservationists to step up measures to protect these precious fish.
Species diversity and classification difficulties
The diversity of Coregonus species is often the subject of controversy. Past classification methods divided it into "true white fish" and "seasonal salmon", but this division does not reflect its true genetic relationship. According to molecular biology studies, these fish exhibit a more complex evolutionary tree, showing the existence of multiple species-related gene systems within the genus Coregonus.
“Many Coregonus fish species, whether considered separate species or the same species, are capable of mating and reproducing, resulting in complex intraspecific variability.”
Current research shows that the identification and classification of species has become complicated with the emergence of several species adjustments and variables. The genetic differences between some species can be subtle, and even morphologically distinct species are often similar in their genetic relationships, posing a challenge for scientists.
Legal framework for protection
Facing an ecological crisis, Coregonus fish strive to survive with the support of international conservation laws. These fish are listed as species in need of special protection under the Berne Convention and the EU Habitats Directive, which necessitates national and local governments to develop relevant measures to protect their habitats. These laws not only ban fishing but also require habitat restoration and protection.
“Strengthening conservation measures not only protects the species itself, but also means protecting the health of the entire ecosystem.”
In practice, the enforcement and supervision of these regulations is crucial. Ecological restoration projects have begun in some areas to try to solve problems such as water pollution and habitat fragmentation. These measures will help improve the living conditions of Coregonus species.
Prospects and Challenges
Although existing conservation measures offer Coregonus fish some hope of survival, many challenges remain. Climate change, habitat loss and invasion of alien species are all putting this fragile ecological network under threat. Scientists continue to call for more research and public attention to gain a deeper understanding of the ecological needs of these fish and the best conservation strategies.
Importantly, these protective measures require not only legal protection, but also public support and participation. Fisheries managers, conservation groups and local communities can work together to effectively implement these measures to protect Coregonus and its habitat and ensure that future generations can enjoy the existence of these beautiful fish.
As guardians of these vibrant creatures, we can ask ourselves, how can we protect these species while raising awareness of fishery sustainability and ecological conservation?
