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Defining non-native populations is essential yet challenging in freshwater systems, where policy relies on administrative borders and science on ecological units. This mismatch complicates regulation, risk assessment and biosecurity. We propose a basin-first, population-level classification that distinguishes intrabasin from interbasin nativity to better support coherent, ecologically grounded policy and management.
Biodiversity surveys and monitoring programmes hold promise for guiding evidence-based conservation in China, but inconsistent survey methodologies, insufficient oversight and flawed data management undermine the reliability and utility of these datasets. China should draw on international best practices to improve data integration, verification, and management, to ultimately strengthen its conservation outcomes.
The Convention on the Conservation of Migratory Species of Wild Animals (CMS) provides a global framework for protecting migratory species, yet freshwater fishes remain underrepresented in the CMS appendices. Strengthening links between research, science communications, policy development and CMS implementation can generate synergistic effects that enhance conservation of migratory freshwater fishes.
