Hurdles and opportunities for conservation of native fish biodiversity in Nepal

A steep north–south elevational gradient in Nepal supports a diverse freshwater fish fauna ranging from coldwater to tropical species. About 23% of the land area of Nepal is protected, but the conservation of water resources and aquatic species, which provides critical ecosystem services, has yet to be a primary goal. Threats to native fishes include habitat alteration, nonnative species, dams, unregulated exploitation, and climate change. Additionally, the fishes of Nepal are undersampled and inadequately known, with high levels of taxonomic uncertainty, potential cryptic species, and species that are likely unknown to science. Opportunities for effective conservation of native fish biodiversity are emerging, however, and center on the co-production of knowledge and co-development of conservation strategies with local communities. A multifaceted approach that integrates conservation with sustainable development is needed to protect Nepal's unique ichthyofauna and to promote a sustainable future for aquatic resources that are crucial to Nepal's ecology, economy, and culture.