Croatian Journal of Fisheries (Dec 2012)
BIOLOGICAL AND ECOLOGICAL CHARACTERISTICS, DISTRIBUTION AND CONSERVATION STATUS OF NERETVAN RUDD, Scardinius plotizza (HECKEL AND KNER, 1858) (PISCES, CYPRINIDAE) IN THE HUTOVO BLATO WETLAND, BOSNIA AND HERZEGOVINA
Abstract
This paper presents data on the biological and ecological characteristics, distribution and habitat, vulnerability and the need for protection of Neretvan rudd Scardinius plotizza (Heckel and Kner, 1858) (Pisces, Cyprinidae), an endemic species of the lower River Neretva in Croatia and Bosnia and Herzegovina. In the area of Hutovo Blato wetland in Bosnia and Herzegovina, this species are numerously represented. It is a resident species and generally prevalent in the colder water areas of the Gornje Blato, such as Lake Deran where it inhabits the deeper central area covered with underwater vegetation. In the choice of habitat, less difference between juvenile and adult populations was observed. Although the current population status of this species in the Hutovo Blato may be assessed as stable, it is likely to be considered endangered in the future if the trends of various negative impacts that threaten its existence prolong. The wetland area of the Hutovo Blato, which is characterized by a large number of endemic species of narrow distribution range, is threatened by significant negative changes in habitat, hence urgent evaluation and protection measures are needed. In order to improve the conservation status of this species, as well as high ichthyological diversity of this area, of particular importance are the following: effective protection of habitat, improved water management measures and prevention of further introduction and spreading of exotic species. Also, it is necessary to accurately determine its taxonomic position. It is proposed that IUCN classifies this species as Near Threatened (NT) in Bosnia and Herzegovina on the basis of its current status, as well as projections for future development and the IUCN criteria.
