Discussion Paper | Discussion Paper | Discussion Paper | Discussion Paper | Discussion Paper | Discussion Paper | Discussion Paper | Discussion Paper | Discussions Biogeosciences 2 , and T. Wilke 1 5348 5347 , S. Trajanovski 2 , C. Albrecht 1 -Ring 26–32 IFZ, 35392 Giessen, Germany ff Of the 11 IUCN (International Union for Conservation of Nature and Natural Re- Lake Ohrid, the European biodiversity hotspot, is a prime example for a lake with Based on field surveys, monitoring data, published records, and expert interviews, This discussion paper is/has been under review for the journal Biogeosciences (BG). Please refer to the corresponding final paper in BG if available. Hydrobiological Institute Ohrid, Naum OhridskiDepartment 50, of 6000 Animal Ohrid, Ecology Republic & of Systematics, Macedonia Justus Liebig University, and future of Lake Ohrid and its biota. Given the number of identified threats, it is tourism and populationloss, growth, (6) (4) unsustainable exploitation non-indigenous of species, fisheries, and (5) (7) habitat global climatesources) alteration threat change. or classes scored, seven havelatter moderate and threat three severe classes impacts. are These pollution. energy We production review and anding mining, discuss and ecosystem biological institutional management, responsibilities, resource existing parks environmentalmeasures, use, and international monitor- and reserves, conservation biodiversity activities, and and species and ongoing raising research on of conservation public awareness. Following this summary, we evaluate the status quo we aimed torize (1) existing assess conservation threats activities andneeds to strategies, for Lake Lake and Ohrid. Ohrids’ (3) outlineticular We (endemic) future species) compiled biodiversity, conservation as threats (2) to well as bothidentified summa- specific to for taxa the Lake (and lake Ohrid in ecosystems are: cases itself. to Major (1) par- conservation watershed concerns impacts, (2) agriculture and forestry, (3) often displaying an extraordinarily highcases degree these of biota biodiversity are and also experiencing endemism, extreme in anthropogenic many impact. a magnitude of narrowpressure. range Unfortunately, endemic evidence for taxa aover that the “creeping are last biodiversity decades, under crisis” and increasing hasmediated major socio-political environmental accumulated anthropogenic changes changes. have gone along with human- Freshwater habitats and species living intion freshwater are than generally terrestrial more prone or to marinefreshwater extinc- ones. resources are Immediate conservation thuscalled measures of for ancient eminent world-wide lakes. importance. This While is these particularly lakes true are for famous so for being evolutionary theatres, Abstract Biogeosciences Discuss., 7, 5347–5382, 2010 www.biogeosciences-discuss.net/7/5347/2010/ doi:10.5194/bgd-7-5347-2010 © Author(s) 2010. CC Attribution 3.0 License. A freshwater biodiversity hotspot under pressure – assessing threats and identifying conservation needs for ancient Lake Ohrid G. Kostoski 1 2 Heinrich-Bu Received: 21 May 2010 – Accepted: 17Correspondence June to: 2010 C. – Albrecht Published: ([email protected]) 13 JulyPublished 2010 by Copernicus Publications on behalf of the European Geosciences Union. 5 25 15 20 10 Discussion Paper | Discussion Paper | Discussion Paper | Discussion Paper | Discussion Paper | Discussion Paper | Discussion Paper | Discussion Paper | er zones for the CCA around the ff 5350 5349 ects of human impact, (c) the establishment of ff ective. Implementation and particularly with a view to the enforcement of national Anthropogenic pressure is most often related to human population increase, as seen These activities should, among others, ultimately lead to a trans-boundary major ff recently has been registered in famous Lake Baikal (Moore et al., 2009). ognized in an increasing numberwhich of were ancient lakes, thought including to famous beLake large Titicaca largely water (Albrecht inviolate bodies et such al., as 2009b) Lake or Malawi the (Genner Caspian et Seaaround al., (Riedel the 2008), et lakes al., of 2006). (Sturmbauer, Sulawesi 2008). (von Rintelen Major and environmentaldue Glaubrecht, changes to 2008) massive include extraction or reductions for thecreasing of agribusiness, fishery-related seasonal African water climatic eutrophication, Rift levels extremes, pollution, and in- evidence toxification that (Cohen, 1994). global There change is impacts growing ancient lakes and rapid warming, for example, The degree of these changes,Ancient however, varies lake from endemics lake totheir are often lake particularly small (Cohen, ranges, 1994, vulnerable resulting 1996). As to in a an environmental imminent consequence risk changes of ofcosmopolitan due the extinction species biodiversity (e.g., to increases. Cohen, crisis In 1994). in addition, ancient newly lakes, introduced the species have relative been proportion rec- of highly endemic (Purvis et al.,and 2000) Harper, as well 2004). asthat ecologically Such specialized have conditions species continuously (Norris prevail existed in2008). since so before While called the these ancienting last lakes lakes, an Interglacial extraordinarily that are (Albrecht high is, famous degree andbiota lakes for of Wilke, are being biodiversity also and evolutionary under endemism,these theatres, in extreme lakes often many anthropogenic cases are display- pressure these subjecting (Coulter decline to et in al., human-induced population 2006). environmental densities and and Most loss biotic of of change, endemic includ- species (Coulter et al., 2006). freshwater resources are thusare, of however, challenges eminent to recognizing importance impacts ofresponses (Dudgeon environmental changes such et and al., species as 2006). extinctionhabitat debt, loss There that or is, degradationronmental (e.g., a perturbations Kuussaari delayed are et more extinction likely al., of in 2009). species specialized following habitats Extinctions (Glavin, following 2007) envi- and for ones (Abell, 2002; Strayer, 2006). Immediate conservation measures for world-wide zold, 2009). It hasliving been in repeatedly freshwater emphasized that are freshwater generally habitats more and prone species to extinction than terrestrial or marine 1 Introduction It is generally accepted thatof humans are species currently since causing the theThomas greatest disappearance mass et of extinction al., the 2004a; dinosaurs Cadottetrends some et continue, 65 al., one million half 2008). of years Some allhabitat ago researchers species destruction, suggest (e.g., will be that pollution, extinct if in invasive present less species, than and 100 years climate due change to, e.g., (Strauss and Pe- Management (CZM) areas thatlake. would constitute bu conservation area of the Ohrid-Prespaboth region humans that and would nature. allow long-term integration of laws should be enhanced.and conservation Increased management research practicesidentify on are conservation the priorities. necessary. lakes’ Publicparallel The limnology, awareness needs latter biodiversity, should to research be protect should implementation enhanced. the and unique Facing enforcement biodiversity these of of thelong-term Lake General integrated Ohrid, Management and we Plan suggest sustainable thatstudies urging use would on (a) ensure of ecology, biodiversity the andCore lake e Conservation and areas its (CCA), watershed, including underwater (b) reserves, scientific and (d) Coastal Zone degradation of Lake Ohrid andprehensive the conservation creeping strategy biodiversity should crisis includereduction already measures of evident. that pollution, A result particularly com- in with aneutrophication phosphorous, immediate in process. order to slow Thee down existing the ongoing watershed management should become more clear that only concerted international action can stop or at least slow down further 5 5 25 15 20 10 25 15 20 10 Discussion Paper | Discussion Paper | Discussion Paper | Discussion Paper | Discussion Paper | Discussion Paper | Discussion Paper | Discussion Paper | erent ff 5352 5351 ect more than one of the above concerns. ff erent spatial scales are involved, ranging from the local to ff ects. Di ff assess threats to Lake Ohrids’ (endemic) biodiversity, summarize existing conservation activities and strategies, and outline future conservation needs for Lake Ohrid. Threats to the Lake Ohrid ecosystem are manifold, sometimes obvious in other Based on field surveys and long-term observations, monitoring data available at the Direct or indirect habitat destructions occur in these lakes. As a consequence, ben- Lake Ohrid, the European biodiversity hotspot (Stankovic, 1960), is a prime example 1. 2. 3. many of the threats listed in Table 1 a tial threats assessed is ofanthropogenic course threats, incomplete which and may here actMajor we in have complex conservation restricted interconnected concerns ourselves ways to (Cohen,(2) identified 1994). agriculture for and Lakespecies, forestry, Ohrid (5) (3) are: habitat tourism alteration(7) (1) or and global watershed loss, climate population impacts, (6) change. growth,more unsustainable indirect These exploitation (4) concerns e of non-indigenous may fisheries,ecosystem include wide and scales. direct Threats threats assumedon or as either may basis cause of in these the concerns sides may of be present the lake (Albania, Macedonia) or be ubiquitous. Moreover, cases rather subtle withlong-term. the In time this frame paper, for weticular consequences compile species) ranging threats as to from well both as immediatespatial specific to scales to taxa the with (and lake varying in ecosystems intensities cases itself. (Fig. to These 1). par- threats The act list on of di current and particular poten- past, ongoing and future threats,whichever using is a time the frame longerRed of List three (not Criteria generations exceeding (IUCN or Standards tenimpacts 100 and years, were years Petitions assessed Subcommittee, in 2010). usingecosystem the Environmental the oriented. future) scoring scheme as Four1 provided required impact (slight by scores by impact), GIWA, ranging the which 2importance from is (moderate of 0 impact) more each to (no key 3 knownfound issue (severe in impact) (Table 1). the impact) through GIWA were Details Methodology used on handbook to determining for scaling quantify impact and the scores scoping can (GIWA, be 2001). The threat assessment carried outboth in the this International paper Union is for basedand Conservation on of the the Nature guidelines Global and provided Natural International by used, Resources Waters (IUCN) which Assessment are (GIWA). primarily IUCN designed threat classes to were assess key threats to species. They involve 2 Threats Hydrobiological Institute Ohrid (HBI),conducting examining expert interviews, the we extensive aim published to: record, and Albrecht, 2007; Albrechtgone and along with Wilke, human-mediated 2008), environmentaldevelopments changes increase and (Watzin the et major need al., for socio-political 2002).respective a conservation These changes new strategies comprehensive have for assessment Lake of Ohrid. threats and anthropogenic pressure. TheRepublic transboundary of lake Macedonia is (from(from shared hereon hereon by called called the Macedonia) Albania). Formerconsidered and to Yugoslav the Taking be Republic surface one of of areanumber Albania the of into most endemic account, diverse species ancient Lake (Albrechtings lakes and Ohrid have in been Wilke, is the listed 2008). even world byof Lake UNESCO with Ohrid the since regard and 1979/1980 to Ohrid its as the region”.crisis” surround- “Natural has and accumulated Unfortunately, Cultural over Heritage increasing the evidence last for decades a (Tocko and “creeping Sapkarev, 1978; biodiversity Wilke and thic communities are alteredsen and et eventually al., 2009). food webs Highlysometimes adapted become rapid and interrupted environmental specialized changes species (Marijnis- often (Noges cannot et cope al., with 2008). these for a lake with a magnitude of narrow range endemic taxa that are under increasing 5 5 25 15 20 10 20 10 15 Discussion Paper | Discussion Paper | Discussion Paper | Discussion Paper | Discussion Paper | Discussion Paper | Discussion Paper | Discussion Paper | mann, 2010; Vogel et al., ff cient sewage treatment systems. In ffi ected water bodies in the Ohrid Basin. ff 5354 5353 ects of the Sateska inflow on Lake Ohrid (Watzin et al., 2002). ff uent Crni Drim River and the diversion of the Sateska River. It is, however, a ffl Solid waste washed into the lake (Fig. 2g) is another problem as sanitary landfills, Besides untreated domestic sewage, there have been major inflows of toxic sewage Domestic and industrial waste waters pose another major threat to Lake Ohrid. The Karstic springs such as those in Sv. Naum, Zagorican, and Tushemist also have a The River Sateska was diverted into Lake Ohrid from its former path into the River Water abstraction is currently considered to be of minor importance in Lake Ohrid lake (Mining and Processing Researchtamination Institute, can 1999). be These traced specific in sourcesalso of the present con- sediments a (Vogel et permanentto al., threat the 2010a). to shore Remaining Lake (Watzin stockpiles et Ohrid,been al., particularly reduced 2002). in large the Moreover, waste though past dumps mining years, this and close may metal only processing befor has temporary example (Fig. in 2e). Bukovo/Koselskastandards. or at Tushemisht, are rare or do not meet modern plants in the pastgreatly two reduced. decades A recent and study has thus(Topi found et these raised al., PCB sources levels 2010). in of edibleon Heavy fish major the metal of pollution Lake Albanian contaminations Ohrid have side, from, been consequences however, for remain to example, a Cr be major or caused problem Fe-Ni by with mines up unforeseeable long-time to 56 000 tons per year of waste flowing into the Macedonian side is partlyPopulation disfunctional growth (D. (see Georgiev, personal below), communication, andprovide 2008). rapid a urbanisation major in source both ofspots”, Albania sewage characterized and water, which by Macedonia flows high into contaminationdensely Lake with populated Ohrid. bacteria areas So have (Fig. called been 1), “black identified such as around around Pogradec (Watzinfrom et the al., textile 2002). industry incar Ohrid parts (OTEX), electrogenerator galvanization fabrics facilities. (EMO), and Economic Zastava reasons have forced the closure of many on the Albanian side.standpoint, they These also harbour springs several endemic are species2008). not themselves (Albrecht only and Wilke, very important from a hydrological ring collecting system for domestic sewage installed in the late 1980s on parts of the Negative impacts are most obvious in the Zagorican/Tushemisht feeder spring complex Ohrid. These springs are some of the most a karstic connection between these twopact lakes, of several Lake studies Prespa have watersthat investigated on the the Lake phosphorus im- Ohrid transported (e.g. from AmatajOhrid eutrophicated et Lake in al., Prespa the 2007). may jeopardize It futurewere Lake was identified (Matzinger concluded in et Lake Ohrid, al.,et which al., 2006a). facilitate 2007) the process and Increasedmajor of which phosphorus prerequisite eutrophication pose for concentrations (Matzinger sublittoral a and serious profundal threat endemic to life (Stankovic, hypolimnetic 1960). major dissolved impact oxygen – on the the water balance, temperature regime, and oxygen supply of Lake revealed the adverse e (Matzinger et al., 2006a,the b), a partly because annualmajor balance problem is in achieved neighboring by Lake regulating Prespa (Fig. 3). Given the underground hydraulic through populated areas withthe nonexistent catchment or area, ine less than 25% of wastewater is treatedCrni (GEF, Drim 1997). in 1962ever, in order it to has improve been the(Jordanoski water a et balance major al., of source 2006). thecourse lake. of is A Since organic also then, major and impacting how- 2010a) silt the inorganic (Fig. load 2h). littoral matters mainly Long-term around fed microbiological caused the into as by mouth well the deforestation as (Ho physico-chemical lake along investigations its The natural tributaries of Lake Ohridon the such Macedonian as side the and Daljan, theside Grasnica, Cerava, and carry Pogradec, Koselska and anthropogenic rivers Verdova rivers nutrients ona and the threat Albanian sediment to loads oligotrophic (see Lake Sect. Ohrid 2.2) (e.g., and Vogel thus et pose al., 2010). Most of those rivers flow 2.1 Watershed impacts 5 5 25 15 20 10 25 15 20 10 Discussion Paper | Discussion Paper | Discussion Paper | Discussion Paper | Discussion Paper | Discussion Paper | Discussion Paper | Discussion Paper | 5356 5355 s into Lake Ohrid cause for concern. The same ff e et al., 2010), are increasingly under pressure due to the construction ff ects of agricultural activities in the surrounding areas is providedects by the the eutrophication complete process in Lake Ohrid. Irrigation in much of the watershed Logging and subsequent silt runo Pesticides accumulate in the Lake Ohrid fish and thus pose a real health hazard to A variety of pesticides are used, including copper sulfate, lindane, organophos- ff ff of (often illegal) houses and boat facilities. side has seen a rapiding expansion in of Pogradec settlements, after and the an formerbacterial explosion communist pollution of system has the collapsed increased population (GEF, tremendously 1997). liv- inthese Since this developments then, area are (Watzin not et controlled al.,impacts 2002). by on any Again, the western lake European ecosystemcatchment standards will area and only have many become become densely evidenttine populated at coastal as areas, a which well. later are date. More highlyspecies sensitive importantly, Slopes (Hau and even in of pris- great the importance for point endemic a major problem inEx-Yugoslavia greatly the reduced Lake the Ohrid numberROSTE, area. 2004). of The tourists Political last instability frequenting fewboth years, the following however, have in lake the seen (UNESCO Macedonia breakup an increase of andwith in tourist tourist Albania. facilities, numbers sports recreational Themainly areas, number around campsites, the and of resorts Macedonian weekend is towns houses, rising of rapidly, hotels, Ohrid beaches and Struga. Particularly the Albanian source of contamination in Lake Ohrid (Watzin et al.,2.3 2002). Tourism and population growth Though the shores of(Holtvoeth Lake et Ohrid al., might 2010), haveand over been the Pogradec populated past for – decades100 thousands three 000 have of lakeside (Fig. years grown towns 2a). – considerably Ohrid, The with Struga, growing a number of combined both population permanent of residents and roughly tourists is well. is true for human mediatedevents large in scale both fire intensity events (Fig.Wood and 1), processing frequency which plants, (D. by particularly Georgiev, far personal along exceed natural the communication, Albanian 2008). shore are another significant changes in Lake Prespa might, however, impact the water balance of Lake Ohrid as sides. Given the underground connection between lakes Prespa and Ohrid, water level many banned substances arepesticide readily use available are on not the available (UNESCO black ROSTE, market. 2004; Specific Watzin et datahumans al., on consuming 2002). them (UNESCOture/forestry ROSTE, are 2004). disruption of Otheruse, formerly major increased interacting impacts sediment lake/watershed of loads habitats agricul- lake and due erosion level to changes due land to duefor deforestation to Lake of water Ohrid, nearby extraction. but areas, constitutes and water The a are latter major abstracted issue may every for be year Lake less Prespa, for directly where plantations huge important mainly amounts on of the Macedonian and Greek fertilizers from 1998 until 20072008). has increased progressively (Supreme Audit Institution, phates, synthetic fungicides, andin others. the In Pogradec 2001, district 8901 kg of of Albania. pesticides were In applied Macedonia, agrochemicals are regulated, but e draining of Lake Maliqet in al., Albania 2000). (Fig. 2f)a Today, the approximately intensive 80 use years ofincreases ago fertilizers the (e.g., and problem. Denefle overuseaging of In pesticides 160–200 kg/ha/yr both directly in Albaniathe the and Environmental 1990s. Institute Macedonia, in fertilizer 2005, The(Monitoring 2006, use laboratory Annual and is of by Monitoring the Pogradec) high, Report in Environment aver- and the carried Forest year out Agency 2007, by shows that the use of chemical Land use changes anda particularly major concern, intensified and agriculture theirtem in impacts (Watzin the are et Ohrid of al., watershed great 2002).north, importance are northwest, Agriculture to and is the southwest carried Lake of Ohrid out the Ohrid ecosys- on basin many (Fig. areas, 1). particularly A in negative the example of the 2.2 Agriculture and forestry 5 5 25 15 20 10 25 15 20 10 Discussion Paper | Discussion Paper | Discussion Paper | Discussion Paper | Discussion Paper | Discussion Paper | Discussion Paper | Discussion Paper | , ect the return ff Leptodora kintii and c do not yet exist (Fig. 2b). ffi c, which allows people to readily reach ffi 5358 5357 Diaphanosoma brachiurum as early as 1957 (Ministry of Environment and Physical Planning, Adjacent wetland habitat destruction is particularly obvious in the northwestern In general, Lake Ohrid appears to harbour far fewer invasive species than other The lake has also witnessed the introduction of non-indigenous macrophytes such as In addition to noise emission resulting from sport boating there is also a permanent Another major problem is increasing boat tra has been drained. Moreover, thea destruction decrease of of the wetland the Studencisko distribution blato range caused of some relic wetland plant associations, which Changes, fragmentation and completeident destruction in of several macrophyte partsinfluence, associates new of are macrophyte ev- the associationsand develop lake in Pestani), (Trajanovska, and some 2009). fish locations spawninginto (e.g. grounds cyprinid near As in spawning Trpejca a grounds these (Spirkovski regions result and may Ilic-Boeva, of convert 2004). from this salmonid (Strusko negative pole) and northeasternversion region (Studencisko of blato). wetlands Due into to the agricultural intensive areas, con- melioration, and soil sealing, the terrain (often concrete constructions), beachesin and this context, other but touristic alsoation facilities private of is weekend mainly houses a coastal have majorhabitats habitats directly factor have (see contributed been to above; destroyed the alsobecome alter- (Fig. see severely 2e) Fig. reduced. 2l). and Uniquebeen the macrophyte Some altered reed communities of by around belts these shoreline Lake manipulations adjacent coastal Ohrid and to nutrient have the enrichment (Watzin lake et have al., 2002). The number of observations ofyears non-indigenous and species will such probably species rise should in be the carefully coming monitored (e.g.,2.5 Wilke et al., Habitat 2010). modification The significant alteration or evenLake loss Ohrid, of mainly habitats associated isOhrid, an with ongoing expansion Struga, problem of and in settlements and Pogradec around around (Fig. the 1). major towns The construction of building, boating facilities recently (S. Trajanovska, unpublished data). Balkan lakes (Albrechtlittoral et parts al., such as 2009a). thehome Ohrid to Bay several It or non-indigenous areas is, gastropod near species the however, (Albrecht Lin et obvious Peninsula have al., that lately unpublished become data). highly impacted along the River Drim. Interestingly, this notorious pest species has not been recorded 2003). The introduction tookAfter place a via short the period, Studencista this Canal species close was to reported Biljanini in the Spring. Sveti Naum and Sum springs and to displace the nativeductions Ohrid have not trout. been studiedcannot The adequately. be Therefore impact ruled the out. introduction of Changes of thesesions in fish zooplankton and of diseases communities crustacean are other evident species fish withwhich such recent species inva- as prefer intro- warmer wateraverage bodies. water temperature This in could Lake Ohrid potentially (Kostoski be et related al., 2004). toElodea an canadensis increasing Non-indigenous species become more importantlarly with in ongoing ancient human lake disturbance ecosystems,Ohrid, (Stift et particu- exotic al., 2004; fishes Albrecht likedecades et al., ago the 2009b). (Serafimova, rainbow 1985) In Lake trout and(Talevski et at and al., least 2010). the seven The such silver rainbow species carp trout can is have be a been found particular today introduced concern, since it might be able spawning areas. This is veryspawn important at since exactly it the isthese same known areas that (Spirkovski time almost and as all Ilic-Boeva, when 2004). cyprinid fishes there are maximumdanger of numbers pollution. of Regulations concerning tourists private boat in tra 2.4 Non-indigenous species the even most remote partsfor of example, the are lake. known Waveswetland from ecosystems to speed (e.g. be boats Schmieder and destructiveof and water to the scooters, Pier, 2000). littoral spawning communitiesthe fishes Disturbances same and to a time, even their decrease adjacent natural the number and of long potential existing spawners and spawning the grounds extent and, of existing at 5 5 25 15 20 10 25 15 20 10 Discussion Paper | Discussion Paper | Discussion Paper | Discussion Paper | Discussion Paper | Discussion Paper | Discussion Paper | Discussion Paper | c jams ffi ects of in- ff ects of decreased ver- ff ect and anoxia has been ff cult to assess. However, ev- ffi ) seems to have become a fur- ). There are still no control mea- from nearby roads (Fig. 2e). Tra ff 5360 5359 cult to trace since most often data on the former Salmo ohridana ffi processes into the lake. There are unpredictable threats ff culties have hampered a comprehensive monitoring of such ffi Oncorhynchus mykiss aguabonita ) but also the belvica ( Valuable studies in this context have been conducted by the EAWAG, Switzerland The golden trout ( Many of the karstic springs in the basin have been tapped for drinkingProcesses water like like eutrophication more indirectly contribute to the alteration of habitat Salmo letnica There are other threats to thehouseholds lake and on various industrial scales plants, likealong acid and the rainfall, runo international ash coastal pollution roads from increasea the emission risk of factor car for gasses the andtion represent lake. activities may Sealing foster of runo opensuch soil as along a the major shoreline boat for accident various with construc- subsequent pollution (as has happened in 2009). warming have been demonstrated for thealso sensitive Vogel hypolimnetic et dissolved al., oxygen 2010b). (see predicted Eutrophication by also amplifies the this end e true of (Matzinger the et century al., 2007). if phosphorus load and2.8 warming predictions hold Other threats as correlated faunal change accumulated circumstantialical evidence conditions for in changing ecolog- Lake(Mankolli Ohrid and that Peculi, might 2010). at least partly be attributedthat to addressed global the warming sensitivity ofThese Lake Ohrid studies to global revealed warmingcreased that (Matzinger nutrient et global inputs al., 2007). warming intotical Lake amplifies mixing Ohrid and the (see less above). detrimental frequent Subtle complete e e deep convections potentially caused by global Climate change appears to beidence the has threat been that accumulated isclimate for most changes a di (e.g., Thomas causal etcal link al., Diversity, 2009). of 2004b; Monitoring species Secretariat results of extinctions into the both and the Convention re-current limnological of characteristics Biologi- as well 2.7 Climate change structure of the Ohridhas trout been (Szymanczak stated not et onlytion al., for for 2009). fishery these management salmonids has A butROSTE, been also major 2004). established for decline in carp Pogradec in only and in fish bleak. 2002 catch An (UNESCO associa- ther threat to the nativeand Ohrid in trout the since springs it of was Sv. Naum found (Z. in Spirkovski, the personal fish communication, catch 2010). both in the lake 2.6 Unsustainable fisheries A major impact for( the ecosystem has beensures overfishing on particularly the Albanian of side the andErroneous illegal Ohrid fishing management trout on the and Macedonian side stocking prevails (Fig. practices 2c). have also impacted the population through, for example, changesstrate in the (Fig. microfilm 2i). and2010; algae Many Wagner et communities of al., on 2010) those rocky andstates changes sub- are of di happen habitat over areprofundal, long not periods technical available. di (cf. In Matterpotential changes. deeper et habitats al., like the sublittoral or even the Environment and Physical Planning, 2003). Sum Spring north of Lakewhich Ohrid. had Other been springs the like Bej typedestroyed Bunar locality completely northwest of by of road an Ohrid construction endemic town, (Fig. spring 2d). snail taxon, have recently been have now become strictly limited to a few minor parts of Studencisko blato (Ministry of 5 5 15 20 10 25 15 20 10 Discussion Paper | Discussion Paper | Discussion Paper | Discussion Paper | Discussion Paper | Discussion Paper | Discussion Paper | Discussion Paper | 5362 5361 ects of impacts on the ecosystem. The outlined conservation concerns together ff In Albania, the Ministry of Environment, Forests and Water Administration is respon- Legislation concerning conservation and management of natural resources in both Major transboundary cooperation on Lake Ohrid conservation issues began in 1998 The Hydrobiological Institute Ohrid (HBI) belongs to the Ministry of Education and Overall, it is clear from the above assessment that Lake Ohrid is currently facing is not yet implemented due to financial issues (D. Panovski, personal communication, derstanding between the Governments of Albaniament and of Macedonia in the 1996. Protection and Thebetween “Agree- Sustainable Development Albania of Lake and Ohrid and Macedonia(Faloutsos its et was Watershed” al., signed 2006). onmittee This (LOWC) 17 resulted with in June legal founding 2004countries. of authority and The the over LOWC-secretariat Lake ratified the began Ohrid to in entireeral Watershed work Lake 2005 support in Com- Ohrid May to 2006 watershed, the inThe i.e. LOWC Ohrid. bilateral in and It secretariat both provides members gen- from istion both one Plan countries of for (Faloutsos management the et of organizations the al., concerned Lake 2006). Ohrid with watershed. the It Strategic was Ac- established in 2008 but countries has been summarized elsewhere2006; (e.g., Strauss and Watzin et Pezold, 2009). al., 2002; Faloutsos et al., with the Lake Ohrid ConservationManagement Project (LOCP) Board (see (LOMB) also was Sect. formed 3.4). after The the Lake Ohrid signing of the Memorandum of Un- ment and Physical Planning. sible for environmentalThe protection ministry measures cooperates and withtion acts (Strauss other through and ministries Pezold, various onside 2009). of directorates. issues Lake No related Ohrid local tomost but institute responsible a nature authorities exists new conserva- are monitoring at exclusively lab present based has in on Tirana. been the established Albanian recently. However, fishery. Sciences and is accreditedtheir to biodiversity, water monitor quality and the the state changesenvironmental in of protection the the ecosystems. is Local lakes carried governmental in out Macedonia by as local well authorities as of the Ministry of Environ- of Economics hosts various institutes such as for tourism, veterinary sciences, and ble for the UNESCO Commission and the Museum of National History. The Ministry 3.1 Institutional responsibilities A number ofMacedonia, institutions there at are Lake several Ohridand ministries environment. are responsible concerned The forunit with Ministry protection for conservation of for the protection Environment the issues. of andwhich biodiversity Lake Physical manages In Ohrid the Planning (now Bilateral realization hostswatershed. Board of a for the The local protection projects National of Park for LakeMinistry authorities the Ohrid), of protection of the of Environment Galicica Lake and Park Ohrid Physical act and on Planning. its the behalf The of ministry the of culture is responsi- protecting Lake Ohrid and its biota. 3 Activities concerning Lake Ohrid protection average impact score of only 2impacts may (see still Table 1). contain singular Table 2tion or lists concerns multiple threats examples previously with of discussed. severe threats related to the majorboth conserva- an ecosystem and aplex creeping setting biodiversity and crisis. limnological Thisof features is e complicated of by the thewith lakes’ com- proven basin and and predicted the consequences have considerable led delay to a variety of activities that aim at Of the 11 threatwith classes an scored impact (Table 1), value only ofsevere geological impact 0. events (3). Seven are threat These currentlylogical classes latter scored resource threat have use, moderate classes and (2) are pollution. and energy Note three production that classes some and of mining, the bio- threat classes with a current 2.9 Comparative threat analysis 5 5 25 15 20 10 20 15 10 Discussion Paper | Discussion Paper | Discussion Paper | Discussion Paper | Discussion Paper | Discussion Paper | Discussion Paper | Discussion Paper | s and rocks between Gradishte and ff 5364 5363 erent zones, i.e. strictly protected, tourism recreational, ff cial authorities, local non-governmental organizations (NGOs) ffi A first national study on the biodiversity of Macedonia (First national report) was The National Park Galicica was declared in 1958 and covers an area of 25.000 ha. Another national park, the transboundary Prespa Park was established in Febru- A General Management Plan for the Ohrid and Prespa region was prepared by the There is also progress on the Albanian side, for example, a new sewage treatment Of special concern is sewage treatment. Wastewater is pumped along the shore Apart from these o published in 2003 (Ministrycomprehensively of Environment lists and organisms Physical occurring Planning, in 2003). Macedonia This and report also includes the Lake scheme, however, exist, mainly on the Greek side (UNESCO ROSTE, 2004). 3.4 Biodiversity and species measures The Convention on Biologicalcessed Diversity in (CBD) 1994. was The status ratifiednia of in and various Macedonia 1998 international is environmental whilst summarized agreements Albania in in ac- Faloutsos Alba- et al. (2006). ary 2000, in Aghios Germanos,thus Greece is (Fig. also 3). significant It forthe covers Lake both two Ohrid, Prespa lake given lake the basins systems.plemented tight and hydrological in The connection the idea between bilateral of agreement creating signed a in UNESCO 2004. Biosphere Major Reserve reservations was against im- the 2006). The park is subdivided inand 3 commercial zones di (Fig. 2k).Lubanishta The on shoreline cli Lake Ohridtected (Fig. as 3). well However, the asPark. lake the water The Sv. bodies National currently Naum Parkber do opened spring 2009). not a complex belong modern to are information the strictly center National pro- quite recently (Novem- On the Macedonian side, UNESCO“Natural and declared Cultural Lake Heritage Ohrid of and thea Ohrid the major region” surrounding in step area 1979/1980 towards as (Fig. internationalLake 3). and Ohrid. This has national It been recognition is of planned the to natural extent treasures this of to the whole lake watershed (Faloutsos et al., 3.3 Parks and reserves progress has been achievedagricultural by and forestry. the LOCP in the context of establishing sustainable 44 km of sewers, whichlake, will will treat be most added of to the the system shoreline (UNESCO on ROSTE, the 2004). UNESCO Macedonian Commission side in of collaboration the Planning with Skopje. the Ministry The of planparliament. Environment passed and the Physical governmental procedures and was ratifiedsystem by has been installed for parts of Pogradec and the surrounding settlements. Less the 1980s. Alongstrategy with of these permanent environmental initiatives, monitoring legislative of regulations Lake Ohrid, have carried led outthrough to by a the a 25.4 HBI. km national longcharged collector into system River into Crni alecting Drim. plant system Lack near in of Struga the funding from late suspended where 1980s the it (GEF, construction is 1997). of dis- the In col- two additional construction phases, lished in Pogradec, as athere centre were for 31 coordinating NGOs allto with local 700 67 NGOs members. at with Lake Sofinancing 2200 Ohrid. are far, members national the Initially budget (Panovski number (grants), of and membership NGOs fees Kekenovski, and has 2002). international increased 3.2 grants. The main Environmental monitoring sources and ecosystem of management Macedonia initiated measures to abate the environmental degradation of the lake in major goals of the bilateralLake “Agreement Ohrid on and Protection its and Watershed”. Sustainable Development of such as the Macedonian Limnological SocietyOhrid are concerned and with have conservation at been Lake actively involved in the LOCP. “The Green Center” was estab- 2010). The bilateral secretariat is responsible for ensuring the implementation of the 5 5 25 15 20 10 25 15 20 10 Discussion Paper | Discussion Paper | Discussion Paper | Discussion Paper | Discussion Paper | Discussion Paper | Discussion Paper | Discussion Paper | orts can only be successful ff 5366 5365 cials that conservation e ) habitat in Lake Ohrid, financed by the UNDP and ffi e et al., 2010). Research into protection strategies for partic- ff Nuphar lutea orts aim at spawning Ohrid trout at the HBI Ohrid (financed by the Agricul- ff Research in sustainable agriculture, forestry, and tourism is currently either under- An international symposium on the protection of natural lakes in Macedonia high- Further EU conservation programs are not yet implemented, for example, within the IUCN red book listings are available for Lake Ohrid fishes (Smith and Darwall, 2006) Major e Species recovery activities for particular species in Lake Ohrid have been occasion- There are conservation activities for particular Lake Ohrid species, most notably when local people areregion. involved The and environmental issues are of aware Lake of Ohrid thus the are natural regularly covered treasures by local of and their home ular habitat types andconducted regarding vulnerable the species impact is of climate required. change. Far morerepresented research or should non-existent. be region However, has the been need proposed several for times ecotourism (e.g., Grazhdani, in 2010). thelighted Ohrid the urgency Prespa of coordinatedal., conservation 2007). measures for It Lake is Ohrid well (Guseska known et to o There is currently littleceptions research include the devoted spawning to and conservationIlic-Boeva, release 2004). at program for Lake the There Ohrid. Ohridcurrent is trout population Notable (Spirkovski lack and states ex- of for knowledgeexception basically of (e.g. all ecology invertebrates. and Hau distribution Molluscs as might well be as a notable and charophytes (Trajanovska, 2009).15 According Charophyta to species are the considered latter criticallyare author, endangered, 7% in 13% are of the endangered, the 27% vulnerablebelong total group, to 13% the are low risk datasuch group. deficient, For assessments while other do taxa most and notprepared of in and currently the particular expected the species exist. to endemic (40%) be invertebrates For released in molluscs, 2010 however, (Albrecht3.6 an et al., assessment unpublished is Research data). on conservation and raising of public awareness (2006–2009). Natura 2000 network (Emerald network inever, non-EU exist countries)., in National both initiatives, Albania how- and Macedonia. projects have included the DRIMPOL Project (2003–2005) and the DRIMON Project eral project (2009–2011) ofto partners establish from permanent Albania, monitoring Macedonia of and Lake Norway, intending Ohrid according to the EWFD. Other such standing and influential(LOCP) of GEF Project which (Albania/Macedonia).management has The project been World from Bank 1999–2004 theGerman financed with the bilateral US$ KfW Lake 4.4 Lake Mio. Ohrid Bankprojects Ohrid are The have concerned Swiss Conservation with also particular governmentboundary management and been and watersheds monitoring involved issues of in (UNESCO thepreparation Macedonia, trans- of ROSTE, the Albania EU 2004). Water and Directivetoring for of Montenegro. the Lake lake. Ohrid Smaller according Developing An to biological the tools example European for Waterframe moni- Directive is (EWFD) is the a trilat- yellow water lily’s ( carried out by the Macedonian Limnological Society from 20063.5 to 2008. International activities There are international activities concerned with conservation issues, the most out- on the Albanian side of Lake Ohrid (Z. Spirkovski, personalture communication, Ministry). 2010). One(Fig. of 2j). the According major to goalsa a total recent is of conservation to 20 assessment yield species) ofare using sustainable the endangered IUCN and native populations criteria, fish 4 in 1 species fauna species the (with are is lake vulnerable critically (Talevski et endangered, al., 5ally 2010). species carried out or planned. One such example is the revitalization of the endangered data sets exist for a few selected taxa. for fish. A(fishery fishing law, ban article hasfishing 24). during been the spawning in Since period place only, 2003, i.e. in the no Macedonia restrictions state exist since for law the 2004 on rest and of fisheries the until year in 2014 Albania prohibit Ohrid flora and fauna. Red listings are planned for various taxa, but only preliminary 5 5 25 15 20 10 25 15 20 10 Discussion Paper | Discussion Paper | Discussion Paper | Discussion Paper | Discussion Paper | Discussion Paper | Discussion Paper | Discussion Paper | cult to ffi e et al., 2010). cient to halt the ff ects” (discussed ffi ff beds has shrunk (Trajanovski, 2005). 5368 5367 orts belt reductions and alteration of adjacent wetland ff Dreissena cult to prove, but evidence exist which shows that ffi Phragmites ects have been visible for decades. Changes in the abundance ff orts are, without doubt, necessary to protect one of the greatest ff orts, internationally funded like the Lake Ohrid Conservation Project ff Rapidly increasing habitat alterations will further reduce suitable habitats for endemic Benthic algal blooms and related increases in opportunistic algal-feeding minnow In contrast, species loss is di Increasing the public awareness was the 4th component of the Lake Ohrid Conser- Whereas these e treasures of Lake Ohrid – its unique biodiversity – they may not be su organisms that arethe partly number restricted of toupcoming non-indigenous very years. and small This eventually areas can invasivein be within Wilke species et related the will al., to 2010) lake. likely the but loss rise also of Moreover, direct in human “eco-insularity4.2 the activities e (see Sect.1). Challenges to conservation e Major bilateral e (LOCP), have attempted to stabilize and even improve the situation of Lake Ohrid. et al., 2004;demonstrated Jordanoski by increased et algal al., covers ofthe 2004). littoral lakes karstic (Fig. rocks, Signs even 2i). inphosphorous of remote The loads parts eutrophication has complex of been are interplay described of already (Matzinger dissolved obvious, et oxygen al., content 2007). and increased some profundal gastropod speciesDecline have of become populations extremely has rare been (Hau butions of recognized major from macrozoobenthic long-term groups (Trajanovski studies andparative Budzakoska, on study 2002). biomass on A distri- the com- presentdescribed status in of the 1936 charophytejanovska, were flora 2009). has not The shown decline that registeredpopulated in 5 water littoral during species quality areas recent around has the extensive been tributary investigations recorded mouths and by (Tra- heavily the HBI monitoring program (Lokoska populations were reported as earlymunity as of 1978 (Taylor Lake and Gerking, Ohridquences 1978). for has the The ecosystem fish changed integrity com- arespawning significantly grounds not due (e.g., yet to studied. Talevski The ethabitats alteration are of al., the of traditional 2010), importance for conse- many native fish species in the lake. (Trajanovski, 2005). The general benthicchanged composition and in the the depth profundal range of of the the lakes has Given the variety of threatsral Lake and Ohrid is spatial facing, explicit theirassess. nature, complex Some consequences interaction, consequences and for are tempo- ecosystems subtle,are and others already are biota observable. subject are to Among di and a the shifts time latter, lapse, in habitat yet species others destruction,that composition decline some are of of the populations, these mostof e obvious. major It macrozoobenthic taxa should, as however,already a be observed result noted 35 of environmental years change, ago for example, (Tocko and was Sapkarev, 1978) and continues to occur 4 Status quo and future of4.1 Lake Ohrid and its Current biota situation and future consequences site is an absoluteand necessity. the HBI An Ohrid agreement toestablishment between be of the signed such Lake a in Biwa museum. summer 2010 Museum represents (LBM) an initialvation step Project. towards the Public involvementboth was countries. achieved Increased public through awareness contractsof resulted, for with the example, the “Green in the Center” NGOs establishment (Faloutsos in of et Pogradec al., or 2006). the adoption of 21 June as “Day of Lake Ohrid” projects in order tocation, raise 2010). awareness Several websites amongOhrid. nowadays pupils inform The (D. about Museum Georgiev, of environmental Struga personal issuesexhibition – communi- at on Nikola Lake Lake Nezlobinski Ohrids has a nature.the biological However, since department establishment Ohrid and of an town lacks a a permanent similar institution, public museum on Lake Ohrid as unique heritage regional media. Local schools regularly undertake excursions and perform dedicated 5 5 25 15 20 10 20 25 15 10 Discussion Paper | Discussion Paper | Discussion Paper | Discussion Paper | Discussion Paper | Discussion Paper | Discussion Paper | Discussion Paper | er zones for the ff cial reserves with ffi 10% of the lake’s biodi- > ects of human impact, ff ective. A major task is, for example, ff 5370 5369 ort. The complex hydrological setting of Lake Ohrid, ff ects are noticeable all around the lake, human impact ff e et al., 2010). Other hotspots are, e.g., the littoral near Sveti Zaum, ff implementation and enforcement ofensure long-term the integrated General and sustainable Management use of Planscientific the that studies lake and on would its ecology, biodiversity watershed, and e Coastal Zone Management (CZM) areas thatCCA would around constitute the bu lake. the establishment of Corethe Conservation highest areas conservation priority, (CCA), including i.e., underwater reserves, o and Increased research on the lakes’ limnology, biodiversity, and conservation manage- Facing these parallel needs to protect the unique biodiversity of Lake Ohrid, we These activities should, among others, ultimately lead to a trans-boundary major Implementation and particularly with a view to the enforcement of national laws in Whereas anthropogenic e It is important to recognize that Lake Ohrid has experienced major natural environ- (c) (a) (d) (b) suggest urging of both humansestablishment and of nature. a trilateral UNESCO Such Ohrid-Prespa region a Biosphere visionary Reserve. project could eventually lead to the endemic species of Lake Ohrid should continue to bement carried out. practices are necessary.priorities. The Given latter the research importancedevelopment of field of tourism should Lake (e.g. Ohrid identifyon a as conservation import ban a and on tourist export private ofincluding destination, power species) the a is boats establishment sustainable important. and ofOhrid. Public jet a awareness skies, central should restrictions be museum enhanced, highlighting the importance of Lake conservation area of the Ohrid-Prespa region that would allow long-term integration to re-divert the Sateska River. Albania and Macedonia should beAlbania enhanced. Envisioning and the Macedonia future integration inlaw of and both the strategies European such as Union, NATURA implementation 2000 should of be EU prepared. conservation IUCN red listing of the watershed management should become more e with phosphorous, in order to slowculture down the and ongoing forestry eutrophication process. should Both become agri- sustainable in the whole watershed. The existing 5 Conclusions Given the number ofinternational identified action can threats stop toand or Lake the at creeping Ohrid, least biodiversity it crisis slow(concerted already is down action evident. further clear plans-CAPs) Multilateral degradation is that conservationshould of necessary. planning only include Lake A measures concerted Ohrid that comprehensive result conservation in strategy an immediate reduction of pollution, particularly Lindhorst et al., 2010;seen Vogel in et the past al., yearssituation 2010a). (Vogel et for al., The any 2010b), conservation magnitude however,such e evidently of as presents anthropogenic the a impact long challenging residencebe time considered of in waters an and ecosystem-based the conservation related strategy. response time lag, needs to the feeder spring complex atin Sveti Albania Naum (Albrecht and and its Wilke, sister 2008). complex Tushemisht/Zagorican on these biodiversity hotspots couldhabitats have around grave Veli consequences. Dab A couldversity. destruction lead of, to e.g., a permanent loss of mental changes and fluctuations throughout its history (e.g. Wagner et al., 2008, 2010; invertebrate taxa in Lakewithin Ohrid the is lake that basin. theBasin Ongoing many have surveys of identified of several them so the are called benthicones biodiversity restricted invertebrate hotspots. is to faunas One situated small in of along the the areas Wilke, most the Ohrid 2008; important Hau karstic eastern shore of the lake – Veli Dab (Albrecht and creeping biodiversity crisis in the lake. The principal problem of, for example, endemic 5 5 15 10 25 20 25 15 20 10 Discussion Paper | Discussion Paper | Discussion Paper | Discussion Paper | Discussion Paper | Discussion Paper | Discussion Paper | Discussion Paper | ˆ eque, e and ect of ff ff ´ ev , last ac- ˇ http://www. c about the orts in various ways and are ff http://www.unep.org/dewa/giwa/ http://www.iwlearn.net/iw-projects/ , last access: 5 May 2010, 2001. 5372 5371 , last access: January 2010, GWP-Med, Athens, 10July2001.PDF (Gastropoda: Pulmonata: Hygrophila), Biol. Invasions, 11(8), doc/lake-ohrid-project-brief-phase-ii-25p-68k.pdf/view Meth D. Panovski provided information about the LOCP,Z. Spirkovski about fish Physa acuta e, T., Schreiber, K., Trajanovski, S., and Wilke, T.: Mollusc biodiversity and ff 112799468242/project e, T., Albrecht, C., Schreiber, K., Trajanovski, S., and Wilke, T.: Spatially explicit analyses ff S.: Proceedings of the IOhrid, Symposium Republic for of protection Macedonia, of 31 natural May–3 lakes June in 2007, republic 188 ofof pp., gastropod Macedonia, 2007. compositions in ancienttaxa Lake Ohrid and reveal distinct a biodiversity hierarchical hotspots, distribution Biogeosciences of Discuss., endemic submitted, 2010. New York, 2007. the lakes Prespa region, BALWOIS 2010 – Ohrid, Republic of Macedonia, 1–8, 2010. lake basins in southeastern Europe, GEF IW:LEARN Activity D2, available at: trematode parasite in Lake Malawi, Biol. Invasions, 10, 48–49, 2008. methodology/RevScalScop J. L. Brooks,Coulter, in: G., Arch. Speciation Hydrobiol., in 44, 453–481, Ancient 1994. 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Trajanovski, S.: Structure, dynamic and distribution of the macrozoobenthos from Lake Ohrid Trajanovski, S. and Budzakoska, B.: The qualitative composition of the macrozoobenthos as Topi, D., Seitia, B., Halimib, E., and Gjinalic, E.: The Toxic Evaluation of PCBs in Edible Fishes Tocko, M. and Sapkarev, J.: Annual variations of the important zoobenthic populations in Lake Thomas, C. D., Cameron, A., Green, R. E., Bakkenes, M., Beaumont, L. J., Collingham, Y. C., Sturmbauer, C.: The Great Lakes in East Africa: biological conservation considerations for Thomas, J. A., Telfer, M. G., Roy, D. B., Preston, C. D., Greenwood, J. J. D., Asher, Taylor, W. W. and Gerking, S. D.: Potential of the Ohrid rifle minnow, Alburnoides bipunctatus Strayer, D. L.: Challenges for freshwater invertebrateStrauss, conservation, A. J. and N. Pezold, Am. B.: Benthol. All Soc., Along the Watchtowers: Field Guide for the Southeastern Eu- Talevski, T., Milosevic, D., and Talevska, A.: Anthropogenic influence and conservation status of Strauss, A. and Pezold, T.: All Along the Watchtowers: Field guide for the South Eastern Stift, M., Michel, E., Sitnikova, T. Y., Mamonova, E. Y., and Sherbakov, D. Y.: Palaearctic gas- Szymanczak, R., Spirkovski, Z., and Sell, J.: A note on Stankovi Supreme Audit Institution: Report On the audit conducted at Ministry of Environe- Spirkovski, Z., Avramoski, O., and Kodzoman, A.: Watershed management in the LakeSpirkovski, Ohrid Z. and Ilic-Boeva, B. D.: The state of the Lake Ohrid trout and Lake Ohrid Belvica, Smith, K. G. and Darwall, W. R. T.: The status and distribution of freshwater fish endemic to Serafimova, J.: 50 years since the establishment of the hydrobiological institute in Ohrid, A Secretariat of the Convention of Biological Diversity: Connecting biodiversity and climate Schmieder, K. and Pier, A.: Lakeside reed border characteristics at Lake Constance (Untersee): 5 5 30 25 20 15 30 25 10 20 15 10 Discussion Paper | Discussion Paper | Discussion Paper | Discussion Paper | Discussion Paper | Discussion Paper | Discussion Paper | Discussion Paper | , last access: 201.html = http://portal.unesco.org/ SECTION ´ en, P.: A paleoclimate record with &URL uents 3 \ ffl uents 3 ffl TOPIC 5378 5377 DO = DO 9.4 Garbage & solid waste9.5 Air-borne pollutants9.6 Excess energy10.2 Earthquakes/tsunamis10.3 Avalanches/landslides11.3 Temperature extremes 3 11.4 Storms & flooding11.5 Other impacts 1 0 0 0 2 1 0 1.3 Tourism & recreation areas2.2 Wood & pulp plantations2.3 Livestock farming & ranching2.4 Marine & freshwater aquaculture3.3 Renewable 3 energy 2 2 4.3 Shipping 1 lanes4.4 Flight paths5.2 Gathering terrestrial plants5.3 Logging & wood harvesting5.4 Fishing & harvesting aquatic resources 0 6.3 3 Work & other activities 0 7.3 Other 0 0 ecosystem modifications 0 8.3 Introduced genetic material9.2 Industrial & 3 military e 9.3 1 Agricultural & forestry e 2 &URL \ 24220 = ID 10 Geological events11 Climate change & severeweather 10.1 Volcanoes 11.1 Habitat shifting & alteration 3 11.2 Droughts 2 (2.25) 0 0 3 Threat class1 Residental & commercialdevelopment 1.1 Housing &2 urban Agriculture areas & aquaculture 2.1 Annual & Key perennial threat non-timber crops3 Energy production & 1.2mining Commercial & industrial areas 24 Transportation & servicecorridors 3.1 3 2 Oil (1.75) & gas drilling 4.1 Roads & 2 railroads (2.33) 5 1 Biological resource use 5.1 3.2 Hunting Mining & & trapping quarrying terrestrial6 animals Human intrusions &disturbance Impact 4.2 Utility & Average service Impact lines 07 Natural systemmodifications 6.1 0 Recreational activities 3 28 Invasive 3 & otherproblematic 2 species & genes 6.2 War, 8.2 civil 7.1 Problematic unrest9 Fire native & Pollution 3 & species military fire exercises suppression 7.2 Dams 0 & water 8.1 management/use Invasive non-native/alien species 0 3 2 0 2 2 9.1 Domestic & urban 2 waste water 2 2 (2.33) 3 3 (2.6) freshwater mussels in the Balkans: in and out of ancient lakes, Biogeosciences Summary chart of IUCN threat classes, key threats, current impact and expected Dreissena Discuss., 7, 4425–4461, doi:10.5194/bgd-7-4425-2010, 2010. environment report, Lake Ohrid Conservation Project,Republic Tirana, of Republic Macedonia, of 2002. Albania and Ohrid, tions for sustainable conservation strategiesI Symposium of for biodiversity protection hotspots, of in:Macedonia, the 31 Proceedings natural May–3 lakes of June in the 2007, Republic 44–45, of 2007. Macedonia, Ohrid, Republic of recorded in the sediments from3392, lakes doi:10.5194/bgd-7-3365-2010, Prespa 2010. and Ohrid, Biogeosciences Discuss., 7, 3365– from Lake Ohrid, Ph.D. thesis, St.and Cyril mathematics, and Institute Methodius of University, Biology, Faculty Skopje, of Republic natural of sciences Macedonia, 2009. en/ev.php-URL tephrochronological age control for the lastand glacial-interglacial Macedonia, cycle J. from Paleolimnol., Lake Ohrid, 44, Albania 295–310, doi:10.1007/s10933-009-9404-x, 2010b. lania (Caenogastropoda: Pachychilidae)Zootaxa, from 1852, the 37–49, Malili 2008. lake system, Sulawesi, Indonesia, and Sanxhaku, M.:structions, The Palaeogeogr. Palaeoclimatol. potential Palaeoecol., of 259, Lake 341–356, 2008. Ohrid for long-term palaeoenvironmental recon- sedimentation in Lake Ohrid (Albania/Macedonia) -pogenic a factors complex interplay and of their natural possible and7, impact anthro- 3911–3930, on doi:10.5194/bgd-7-3911-2010, biodiversity 2010a. patterns, Biogeosciences Discuss., 1 May 2010, 2004. Table 1. future (mid-term) importance inthrough the Ohrid 1 basin. (slight Four impact),current scores 2 impact ranging according (moderate from to 0 impact) thezero (no to scoring impact know 3 scheme scores impact) provided were (severe by used impact)and GIWA to references were (2001). calculate see Note used the text. that to average only scores assess non- of the each threat class. For details Wilke, T., Schultheiß, R., Albrecht, C., Bornmann, N., Trajanovski, S., and Kevrekidis, T.: Native Wilke, T. and Albrecht, C.: How to stop the creeping biodiversity crisis in Lake Ohrid? Sugges- Watzin, M. C., Puka, V., and Naumoski, T. B.: Lake Ohrid and its watershed, state of the UNESCO ROSTE: Report about the Lake Ohrid watershed region. Wagner, B., Vogel, H., Zanchetta, G., and Sulpizio, R.: Environmental changes on the Balkans Wagner, B., Reicherter, K., Daut, G., Wessels, M., Matzinger, A., Schwalb, A., Spirkovski, Z., Trajanovska, S.: Taxonomy, ecology and status of the charophyte vegetation (CHAROPHYTA) Von Rintelen, T. and Glaubrecht, M.: Three new species of the freshwater snail genus Tylome- Vogel, H., Wagner, B., Zanchetta, G., Sulpizio, R., and Ros Vogel, H., Wessels, M., Albrecht, C., Stich, H.-B., and Wagner, B.: Spatial variability of recent 5 30 25 20 15 10 Discussion Paper | Discussion Paper | Discussion Paper | Discussion Paper | Discussion Paper | Discussion Paper | Discussion Paper | Discussion Paper | Matzinger et al. (2007) communication, 2010 ecting This study ff in macrophytic communities the water regime of Lake Ohrid Elodea canadensis shores 5380 5379 Increased sediment loadWaste waterMetal contaminationIrrigationLogging Tributaries toWater Lake abstraction Ohrid Industries and disposals Albania Domestic waste waters Agribusinesses around Lake Prespa, thus Northern a plains of the Ohrid basin Wood processing plants Albania Vogel et al. Vogel (2010) et al. (2010) Watzin et al. (2002) Watzin et al. (2002) Watzin et al. (2002) Fire eventshabitat Fragmentation ofmacrophytic littoral Anthropogenic fires oncommunities Galicica MountainsSpring conversion andcapture in Ohrid Basin Spring destructionEutrophication D. Georgiev, personal Macrophyte belt near Pestani/TrpejcaRelease of non-native Sum fish Spring, partly Tusemisht/Zagorican complextemperatures Destruction Bej This Bunar study spring/Ohrid town Seven species of Changing non-native microfilm fish and algae communities Trajanovska on (2009) rocky This study This study in many parts of the lake Talevski et al. (2010) Speed boats water scooters etc.PollutionCommunity changes Disturbance of spawning grounds of cyprinid fishes Spirkovski et al. (2007) Bacterial pollution in front of Pogradec Conservation concerns and associated major threats identified for Lake Ohrid. Exam- Land use and spatial distribution of selected major threats to Lake Ohrid (for details see 2 Agriculture and forestry Intensified agriculture Pesticides in fish UNESCO ROSTE (2004) 1 Watershed impacts Nutrient input Sateska River, Lake Prespa underground connection Watzin et al. (2002); Conservation concern Major threats Example5 Habitat alteration or loss Destruction coastal6 Unsustainable exploitation of fisheries Overfishing7 Global change Wetland loss (e.g. Studencisko blato) Reference Illegal Increasing fish average catch Amplification of eutrophication with subsequent anoxia Matzinger et al. (2007) UNESCO ROSTE (2004) 3 Tourism and population growth4 Non-indigenous species Construction of houses and facilities Weekend houses on slopes E of Ohrid town Competition for native species This study Rainbow trout as competitor for Ohrid trout Fig. 1. text and Table 1). Table 2. ples are provided for each threat (for details see text). Discussion Paper | Discussion Paper | Discussion Paper | Discussion Paper | Discussion Paper | Discussion Paper | Discussion Paper | Discussion Paper | – (E) – Inten- (F) – Diverted Sateska river (H) – Urban and rural expansion in the (A) – Overexploitation of fisheries, illegal net fishing (C) – Eutrophication as indicated by increased algal growth (I) 5382 5381 c on the lake; ffi – National Park Galicica with strictly protected zones at Lake Ohrid shore and (K) – Removal of illegal houses in the strictly protected zone on Lake Ohrid shore. (L) – Solid waste pollution, plastics at beach near Grasnica; – Increasing boat tra (G) – Habitat loss, Bej Bunar spring NW of Ohrid, type locality of an endemic spring snail; (B) (D) – Species survival program for Ohrid trout including hatcheries and co-ordinated release, combined (J) Conservation areas in the transboundary Ohrid Prespa lakes region. Within Galicica Examples of threats facing Lake Ohrid and conservation activities. Fig. 3. National Park, strictly protectedOhrid). zones Note are that shown the Pelister only National (Veli Park Dab (Macedonia) area has been and omitted. Sv. Naum at Lake in the littoral; with fishing ban on Macedonian side; feeder spring system Sv. Naum.; Destruction of shoreline habitatssively N used of agricultural Pogradec, areas Nickel in Chromiuminput, the processing Maliq Lake facilities region, Ohrid in Albania; surroundings theas as background; major sources source of of nutrient, sediment, pesticide, organic and herbicide chemical and pollution; sediment Fig. 2. Ohrid basin, Ohrid town; on Macedonian side;