The Freshwater Fishes of Madagascar: A Study of an Endangered Fauna with Recommendations for a Conservation Strategy

The native Madagascan fish fauna, and most particularly the endemic freshwater community, has undergone severe attrition throughout the surveyed area The decline of the native fauna is strongly correlated with two primary factors: the presence of exotic species, which are now widespread and habitat degradation resulting from extensive forest clearance. In an attempt to document ichthyofaunal changes through time, we compare our collections with historical distribution records (based on museum collections and literature records) from the same areas. The results of this study reveal a pressing need to consider the islands ichthyofauna, watersheds, and river drainages if design of natural areas and parks is to be effective.