“What is a fish without a river?” Conservation Translocation of a Highly Threatened Cyprinid

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Authors: Leonidas Vardakas, Yannis Kapakos, Nicholas Koutsikos, Ioannis Leris, Eleni Kalogianni
Cited by: 0
References: 12

Abstract

ABSTRACT Conservation translocations are essential for reversing biodiversity loss. Here, we report a translocation initiative on the endangered Evrotas chub ( Squalius keadicus ) to re‐establish it in the Vassilopotamos River, within its historical range in Greece. Our approach combined feasibility assessments, invasive species control, demographic modelling and staged releases. Three years after the last release, the species persists, and individuals reach maturity; yet, reproduction remains undetected. Does that mean failure? Perhaps not, but persistence, while encouraging, is not enough. This effort highlights the promise and limitations of translocations and shows that long‐term monitoring and flexibility are critical for success.

Fields of Study & Subjects

Fish Ecology and Management Studies Fish Biology and Ecology Studies Fish biology ecology and behavior

Publication details

Journal / source
Aquatic Conservation Marine and Freshwater Ecosystems
Volume
36
Issue
1
Publication date
1 January 2026
Language
EN