A new study reveals nearly a quarter of the world’s freshwater species are at risk of extinction. The research, published Wednesday, Jan. 8, in the journal Nature, analyzes more than 23,000 species of fish, crabs, dragonflies and other creatures.
According to the study’s co-author, “Most species don’t face just one threat, but multiple factors acting together,” underscoring the complexity of the situation.
This is the first global study focusing on the risks facing animals living in rivers, lakes, streams, wetlands and bogs. Although freshwater ecosystems make up only 1% of Earth’s surface, they are home to 10% of its animal species.
Data from the study reveals decapods, such as crabs and shrimp, are among the most vulnerable. 30% of these species face extinction.
Freshwater fish are also at significant risk, with 26% of species threatened. Additionally, 16% of dragonfly-related species face similar dangers.
Experts point to a combination of factors, including pollution, invasive species, climate change, and the construction of dams, as some of the leading threats to the ecosystems.
The study shows that 54% of the species analyzed are impacted by global pollution, with agricultural pesticides seeping into waterways and increasing harm to already vulnerable groups.
The authors warn without immediate action to address these threats, the situation will continue to deteriorate, putting even more species at risk.
The study also reports that at least 90 freshwater animal species have already been driven to extinction.
