Humans have created so many problems for the environment- especially the climate. Many creatures living in fresh water are in danger now due to climate change caused by human activities.
A survey carried out by IUCN (International Union for Conservation of Nature) and published in the Journal “Nature“, revealed that habitats of fish, shrimp, and crabs, who live in freshwater, are in danger now. One of their species is on its way to extinction. These species include many living in the Western Ghats of India.
About 10% of all the living beings reside in freshwater. People, globally, depend on freshwater resources for potable water, flood control, and for facing climate change, since it is an integral part of the ecosystem. Therefore, it is necessary to guard the sources of fresh water for environmental protection and for the survival of humanity.
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According to Dr. Catherine Sayer, the chief of Freshwater Biodiversity Section of IUCN, said policies are to be followed by governments for protecting fresh water sources. The IUCN has red listed 23,496 species which depend on freshwater. Out of these species, 4,294 are battling for their survival.
Most of these species are to be found in Victoria Lake, Titicaca Lake, western zone of Sri Lanka and the Western Ghats of India. The needs of each species differ. The Tigers and elephants of the Western Ghats need a separate treatment as compared to other species like humpback whales. Freshwater fish are in danger due to dam projects, sand extraction, and hunting. Therefore, it is necessary to rejuvenate rivers and streams, establish rules for fishing, and control aggressive species.