Protected golden crucian carp found near Banská Štiavnica

An ichthyological survey conducted in late October at the Kysihýbelské ponds near Banská Štiavnica has confirmed the presence and successful natural reproduction of the protected golden crucian carp. The species is listed as strongly endangered in the Red List and holds national importance in Slovakia.

Conservationists from the Štiavnické vrchy Protected Landscape Area (CHKO) reported that the sampled fish showed good growth and condition, with various age categories indicating a healthy breeding population. However, the survey also identified the presence of the non-native silver crucian carp in a nearby pond. This invasive species poses a significant competitive threat to the endangered native population due to its biology and ecology.

To preserve biodiversity, experts suggest leaving the pond containing the golden crucian carp untouched to serve as a gene pool, while recommending the elimination of the silver crucian carp population in the adjacent pond. The findings will be used to optimize local fisheries management.