Evaluation of the conservation status of Orestias spp. with communities in the Central Andes, Peru

Milagros Gertrudes Rojas Lock

Other project team members: Katherin Celica Taramona Zevallos, Betsy Norita Huaricapcha De la Sota, Kevin Abner Ortega Quispe

The project addresses the lack of information on the threatened species of Orestias spp. (freshwater killifish) in the Carhuamayo sub-basin, Peru, which are endangered by livestock farming, water pollution, and exotic species. Despite these threats, there is insufficient scientific data on their direct impact on Orestias spp. populations. Therefore, the aim is to strengthen the local capacities of the indigenous communities in the Carhuamayo sub-basin for the conservation of these species, generating biological, environmental, and social scientific information, and updating their conservation status according to IUCN criteria. Participatory methods will be used to train communities in the identification, monitoring, and conservation of Orestias spp. Community sampling will be conducted using trap nets, genetic analysis through mitochondrial DNA, and the creation of geographic distribution maps using GIS. Additionally, the social perception and cultural value of the species will be evaluated. The results will include the strengthening of local capacities, taxonomic identification of the species, geographic distribution maps, and an update of the conservation status of Orestias spp. These products will be applied to improve management and conservation policies, actively involving the communities in the protection of these native species.

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