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Targeted fish removals enhance multidimensional native diversity within freshwater protected areas

Liang, Zhice1; Guo, Chuanbo1

Published Jul 09, 2026 on Dryad. https://doi.org/10.5061/dryad.xd2547dxt

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Abstract

Freshwater ecosystems are hotspots of biodiversity and contribute significantly to food security. Yet freshwater habitats throughout the world remain plagued by overfishing, which depletes populations and diminishes provisioning of ecosystem services. There is growing interest in the use of freshwater protected areas or ‘FPAs’ (whereby strict fishing bans are often deployed) to promote ecosystem recovery. Yet empirical evidence on the efficacy of FPAs indicates many recoveries are complicated by the presence of non-native species, which ironically also benefit from enhanced management. To evaluate effects of targeted fish removals (TFRs) under fully implemented FPAs, we conducted exhaustive field surveys across five Chinese lakes with and without removal efforts, and assessed multiple dimensions of fish assemblage diversity. Results showed multidimensional diversity metrics for native fishes improved significantly in lakes following TFRs (e.g., non-native fish removals in invasion hotspots), while these same metrics declined in control lakes. Moreover, TFRs strengthened top-down control and helped mitigate impacts of lake eutrophication through a series of trophic cascades. Taken together, our findings demonstrate how active fish management can substantially enhance the potential benefits of FPAs, and quicken the pace of ecological recovery in freshwaters.