Liechtenstein releases new atlas on aquatic biodiversity

A new volume of the “Natural History Research in the Principality of Liechtenstein” series has been presented at the National Museum, detailing the state of the country's aquatic ecosystems. Based on field research conducted between 2021 and 2025 across 105 sampling sites, the atlas documents 26 fish species and two crustacean species, numbers which remain unchanged since the previous 2014 assessment.

A significant finding in this edition is the inclusion of three species of large mussels, which were not recorded in the previous volume. The freshwater mussel, for instance, has been successfully recolonizing habitats, with populations reaching thousands in some areas. These mussels rely on host fish, such as the widely distributed ide, for reproduction.

Environmental Minister Sabine Monauni noted that these species serve as vital indicators of healthy water habitats. The findings will inform future fishery regulations and the designation of species protection statuses. The research emphasizes the importance of river restoration and preparing for environmental challenges like dry periods to preserve these ecosystems.