Why restore and protect desert fishes? Lessons from history, economics and biology

Authors: Scott A. Bonar

Year: 2012 (xliv)

Abstract

In times of limited funding and competing priorities, why preserve the strange and unique organisms that inhabit aquatic ecosystems of the desert? Significant research has been conducted to conserve these species. Yet a critical part of conserving aquatic ecosystems in the desert is being able to explain to the general public what substantial benefits they provide. Conservation professionals have made good arguments why these organisms should be protected, yet further information is available still to those who need to convince reluctant segments of the public as to their value. Fish and other species found in desert waters have played important roles in human history, serving economic, medical, religious, food and technological functions. Many were critical for advancing society. Today aquatic species in desert waterways provide millions of dollars to local economies, and are contributing to breakthroughs in human health, engineering and other disciplines. Advances in technology are unlocking further benefits to humans from these unique organisms. An overview of the value provided from aquatic ecosystems in the desert provides many reasons why they are so important to protect.