Urgent surveys to determine population status, key threats, and conservation action for three fishes endemic to Lake Poso, Sulawesi

© PROGRES

The emergency

Lake Poso in Sulawesi supports populations of three ASAP fish species. The drastic declines of these three species are largely considered to be due to predation by alien fishes in the 1970s which have since become invasive. 

In addition, a large hydroelectric dam project approved in 2005 has resulted in widespread dredging and reclamation, threatening the unique ecosystem of the lake and the traditional fishing approaches of the lake’s fishing community.  Urgent action is required in order to assess and obtain information on these freshwater fishes before it is too late.

Results

Surveys were completed in Lake Poso for the three target ASAP fish species. A provisional record of Duck-billed Buntingi was obtained. There were no survey records for either Rosen's Buntingi or Poso Bungu. Interviews with local fisherfolk provided useful information on fishing practices, fish abundance, and threats to the their livelihoods (and therefore to the Lake Poso freshwater ecosystem). The surveys and interview data area being used to design immediate follow up conservation actions. 

Reports

AT A GLANCE

Organisation: PROGRES

Country: Indonesia

Year project started: 2022

Species: Duck-billed Buntingi, Rosen’s Buntingi, Poso Bungu 

Supported by: Fondation Segré