Study finds nearly 25% of freshwater species face extinction risk

A global study has found that nearly 25% of freshwater species, including fish and dragonflies, are at high risk of extinction. This assessment evaluated 23,496 species and highlighted pollution and habitat loss as major threats. The study revealed that over half of the threatened species are impacted by pollution, mainly from agriculture. Freshwater habitats are also suffering from land conversion, water extraction, and dams, which disrupt fish migrations. Crabs, crayfish, and shrimp are the most at risk, with 30% facing threats. The report emphasizes the need for targeted conservation efforts for freshwater species, which are crucial for biodiversity and human livelihoods.