First ever ‘Red List of Freshwater Fish’ for the Isle of Man

First ever ‘Red List of Freshwater Fish’ for the Isle of Man

Manx Wildlife Trust, together with the Department of Agriculture, Fisheries & Forestry (DEFA), have completed a major new study entitled ‘Freshwater Fish of Conservation Concern in the Isle of Man (FFoCCIoM) 2024’, resulting in the publication of the first ever ‘Red List of Freshwater Fish’ for the Island. This important new document has been endorsed by the Isle of Man Government, Manx BirdLife and the Recreational Fisheries Management Board.

Freshwater Fish of Conservation Concern, Isle of Man (FFoCCIoM) 2024 is the first assessment of the conservation status of all native freshwater fish in the Isle of Man, highlighting the importance of conservation, better targeted research and management and collating information on the threats to our native species. 
The assessment uses the most recent data available from decades of research. A traffic light system of Red (greatest concern), Amber (unfavourable), and Green (least concern) is used to indicate the conservation status of each species. A list of invasive non-native species that must be monitored is also included. 
Of the nine species recorded on the official Manx List of Freshwater Fish, two were red-listed, three amber-listed and four green-listed. A further nine invasive, non-native species were identified.
Identifying the species of greatest conservation concern can assist with the prioritisation of conservation policy, strategy and funding. As an up-to-date account of the populations and ranges of all freshwater fish in the Isle of Man, FFoCCIoM 2024 is a useful resource to assist those wishing to understand and help to conserve fish populations and the habitats upon which they depend. 
The full report can be found at mwt.im/FFoCCIoM