Fish Biodiversity and Stock Assessment in the Danube River: Insights from Km 169-197

Fishing activities in the Romanian sector of the Danube River are vital for local economies and environmental conservation. This study assesses the biodiversity and ecological status of fish species in the region by calculating key indicators and evaluating fish populations for 2024. The methodology included calculating biodiversity indicators such as species diversity, evenness, and relative abundance based on fish captures in 2024. A ten-year comparative analysis was conducted on Total Allowable Catch (TAC), reported catches, and fishing effort to understand temporal dynamics. The results indicated significant trends in TAC, reported catches, and fishing effort, which have impacted fish populations and overall biodiversity. Stock assessments for five key species provided crucial insights into their current status. The study highlights the need for continuous monitoring and adaptive management to sustainably manage fish resources amid changing environmental conditions and anthropogenic pressures.