Fish and lampreys of the Biebrza river system with particular emphasis on the waters of the Biebrza National Park

Abstract

An analysis was conducted of available sources of information concerning research on the ichthyofauna of the Biebrza ecosystem and its tributaries, such as scientific publications, planning studies, monitoring results, angling surveys and other available materials. It was established that 43 species of fish and one lamprey, belonging to 14 families according to the current classification, have been found in the Biebrza and its tributaries to date. Among them, two species were found – the minnow (Phoxinus phoxinus) and the two-spotted minnow (Alburnoides bipunctatus), which were only recorded in the tributaries. The current number of ichthyofauna species is approximately 34, which is similar to other similar or larger lowland river systems in the country. Historical and current data on the diversity of fish fauna in the National Park and its buffer zone can be used for further research purposes and for planning conservation and investment projects.