How will climate change shift the range of an Amazonian fish in South America?

What is it about?

This study investigates how climate change may affect the future distribution of an Amazonian fish species across South America, both in its native river basins and in watersheds where it has been introduced (non-native areas). Using species distribution models, we projected how suitable habitat for this fish might expand, contract, or shift under different climate change scenarios. Our results reveal important changes in the geographic areas where this species could thrive or struggle in the coming decades, with implications for both native biodiversity conservation and the management of biological invasions.

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Why is it important?

Understanding how climate change interacts with biological invasions is critical for effective conservation planning. This study provides one of the first assessments of how a native Amazonian fish could expand its invasive range under future climate scenarios, highlighting watersheds at heightened risk. These findings can directly inform early-warning systems, management strategies, and policy decisions to protect South American freshwater biodiversity from the combined threats of climate change and species invasions.

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