Book Launch: River Fish Book Dives into St. Vincent’s Freshwater Biodiversity

15.04.25

The St. Vincent and the Grenadines Environment Fund (SVGEF) is proud to share the findings of the first-ever inventory of freshwater and brackish water fish and decapod crustaceans (crayfish and crabs) in St. Vincent. Until now, no comprehensive record of these vital species existed. Over 14 rivers were surveyed by a team led by SVGEF grantee John Renton, supported by the Forestry Department. The results? A rich biodiversity, with 18 fish and 13 decapod species identified— three of which are new records in the literature for St. Vincent

This groundbreaking report includes:

• Species descriptions: habitat, diet, reproduction, and conservation status.

• Insights from traditional fisherfolk: local names, fishing methods, and observations.

• Analysis of threats: pollution, climate change, invasive species, and more.

Photo Credit: Stephan Hornsey , photographing a Macack, parent of the Tri Tri in St.Vincent's river Mountain Torrents

Our rivers have long been valued for human needs, yet their biodiversity and fisheries have been overlooked in conservation planning. This report is a critical first step toward protecting these vulnerable ecosystems and the livelihoods they sustain.

A physical copy of the book is available here . Each copy sold will go towards the conservation of freshwater species at the SVGEF.