Invasive Macroinvertebrate and Fish Species and Their Impact on Fish Resources: A Case Study on Fishing Waters of Serbia

Abstract

The introduction of species outside their natural range is widely recognized to be one of the main threats to biodiversity and the second leading cause of animal extinctions. Freshwater ecosystems often have high rates of introductions of allochthonous macroinvertebrates and fishes arising from intentional and accidental releases of species. Problems potentially occur when these organisms integrate into the community, interact with native species, and increase competition for resources. It is known that zebra mussel Dreissena polymorpha, as well as fish species Carassius gibelio, Ameiurus nebulosus, Ameiurus melas, Lepomis gibbosus, and others have a negative impact on the autochthonous fish species of Serbia. Therefore, the aim of the present study is to assess the consequences of introduced macroinvertebrates and fishes, and their impact on fish stock (abundance and biomass) in some Serbian rivers and reservoirs.