PRESS RELEASE
ADRIATIC STURGEON: A LOST TREASURE IN THE BUNA RIVER
A recent study confirms the absence of the Adriatic sturgeon (Acipenser naccarii) in the Buna River, raising the alarm for urgent conservation actions and the restoration of biodiversity in this unique ecosystem.
Tirana, Albania | December 26, 2024 – The Buna River, located in the heart of the Buna-Velipojë Protected Landscape, stands as one of northern Albania’s most vital and biodiversity-rich ecosystems. Recognized internationally as an Emerald site, IBA, and KBA, the river is a sanctuary for the region’s diverse flora and fauna. However, this precious ecosystem is now facing a significant threat, as recent research has confirmed the alarming absence of the Adriatic sturgeon (Acipenser naccarii), one of its rarest and most critically important species.
A recent study conducted by PPNEA in Albania and EnvPro in Montenegro, in collaboration with environmental experts, has uncovered troubling findings about the Buna River’s ecosystem. Through a combination of traditional monitoring methods and environmental DNA analysis, researchers collected samples from key river segments during the summer of 2024. These samples were later analyzed in laboratories in the United Kingdom. The results confirmed a concerning reality: while the river still hosts a variety of fish species, the Adriatic sturgeon is now absent in this ecosystem. Long-standing concerns about the decline of this rare species have now been confirmed, highlighting the urgent need for ongoing monitoring and immediate conservation efforts to protect and restore its population.
The situation is driven by a combination of threats, including overfishing, especially illegal fishing, water pollution, and habitat degradation. This alarming situation highlights the urgent need for intervention, protection, and restoration efforts. Authorities in both Albania and Montenegro must ramp up their cooperation and take decisive action to protect the Buna River’s biodiversity. Without immediate and effective measures, not only will other crucial species be at risk, but the fragile ecological balance of this unique ecosystem could be threatened.
This study is part of a broader initiative “Setting the Foundation for a Sustainable Future for Buna River Protected Landscape in Albania and Bojana Delta in Montenegro” is focused on the Buna River-Velipoja Protected Landscape and Bojana Delta and aims to increase the knowledge of the freshwater species living in the transboundary, Buna River Protected Landscape and Bojana Delta” supported by the Critical Ecosystem Partnership Fund (CEPF). This ambitious project seeks not only to assess the biodiversity of the cross-border regions but also to take tangible steps toward protecting endangered species like the Adriatic sturgeon.
The disappearance of this once-present species in the Buna River highlights the urgent need for ongoing dedication and collaboration to conserve the river’s ecosystem. Efforts will focus on restoring degraded habitats and ensuring the protection of wildlife, including the Adriatic sturgeon.
More information about the project:
“Setting the Foundation for a Sustainable Future for Buna River Protected Landscape in Albania and Bojana Delta in Montenegro” is focused on the Buna River-Velipoja Protected Landscape and Bojana Delta and aims to increase the knowledge of the freshwater species living in the transboundary, Buna River Protected Landscape and Bojana Delta.
In addition, the project will highlight the importance of species such as Adriatic sturgeon (Acipenser naccarii), and European eel (Anguilla anguilla) and dedicate conservation actions towards its conservation.
LINK: CEPF – PPNEA
For media inquiries:
Xhemal Xherri, Project Manager, [email protected]
Lorena Pyze Xhafaj, Communications and Public Relations Officer, [email protected]
