Detection and Confirmation of Freshwater Blenny Salaria fluviatilis (Actinopterygii: Blenniidae) in Bosnia and Herzegovina

Abstract

Abstract Distributional range of freshwater blenny Salaria fluviatilis extends to the tributaries along the Mediterranean and Black seas. It is considered endangered in several Mediterranean European countries. Although previously mentioned in the lists of freshwater fish species, its presence has never before been confirmed in Bosnia and Herzegovina. Consequently, this has led to doubts about its distribution there. A sample specimen of freshwater blenny was obtained from the lower Neretva River (Adriatic Sea watershed) in Bosnia and Herzegovina in May 2020, representing the first reliable record of this species. Considering that this record confirms older reports, however, it seems that earlier surveys have failed to locate the fish. Knowledge of the composition of fish species in river basins and updating their list are among the important requirements for managing the biodiversity of each country, as well as water and fish resources.