Impact of Climate Change on Tropical Fish in Central Sahara
Author Information
Author(s): Trape Sébastien
Primary Institution: Institut de Recherche pour le Développement (IRD), Dakar, Sénégal
Hypothesis
Have the relict populations of fish in the Adrar mountains of Mauritania survived the ongoing drought?
Conclusion
The tropical relict fish populations of the Adrar mountains of Mauritania are highly endangered, with several extinctions already occurring due to prolonged drought.
Supporting Evidence
- Four of the thirteen previously recorded fish populations have become extinct since the drought began.
- The Ksar Torchane spring, home to a unique fish species, dried up in 1984, leading to its extinction.
- New fish population extinctions may occur if low rainfall continues.
Takeaway
This study looked at fish living in the Sahara and found that many are in danger because of less rain. Some fish have already disappeared.
Methodology
The study involved a literature review and field surveys to locate water bodies and assess fish populations from 2004 to 2008.
Limitations
The study relied on historical data from pre-1960 surveys, which may not fully represent current conditions.
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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