Survey of endangered fish species of the Moraca River system

Radek Sanda

The Balkan Peninsula, especially the Adriatic and Ionian Sea drainages, is one of the greatest European centres of endemism. During the last decade, due to civil wars, sanctions, as well as NATO bombing, economy of Yugoslavia has been negatively influenced. Ichthyofauna, as an easy source of food, has been under high pressure of prohibited fishing techniques. This project recognises the need to survey present status of ichthyofauna of Montenegro's running waters belonging to Adriatic Sea drainage area. Field research will focus on threatened and endemic fish species. The project will also incorporate field technique training to graduate students and employees of local Agency of Nature Protection. Awareness will be achieved through presentation of results to local community, Government and NGOs.