RiverLIFE

Summary

The RiverLIFE project targets the conservation of the stone crayfish (Austropotamobius torrentium), a keystone species native to Central and Southeast Europe. As an ecosystem engineer, the stone crayfish plays a vital role in maintaining freshwater biodiversity, food web dynamics, sediment transport, and ecosystem services.  The stone crayfish population in Bulgaria and Europe is declining due to habitat fragmentation, pollution, climate change, and lack of public awareness. Preliminary research in Bulgaria shows that 77.61% of local populations are of low abundance (1–8 individuals/100 m²), with fragmented and degraded habitats. The species is further threatened by rising temperatures, reduced water flow, and increased frequency of extreme weather events.  The species is listed in Annex II and V of the EU Habitats Directive, the Bern Convention, and Bulgaria’s Biological Diversity and Fisheries Acts. Despite these protections, inadequate data, limited awareness, and lack of effective management hinder conservation. 

Key Threats Addressed

1. River continuity disruption and habitat degradation – due to barriers like dams and weirs. 
2. Data deficiency – inconsistent and outdated population data, lack of a barrier inventory. 
3. Lack of awareness and stakeholder capacity – insufficient knowledge among communities and decision-makers about the species’ role and conservation needs.

Project Objectives

1. Restore the connectivity of the species, reconnecting 26 ha of key stone crayfish habitats. 
2. Increase the abundance of the stone crayfish to at least 10 individuals/100 m2 in at least three key locations for the species. 
3. Raise awareness about the plight of the stone crayfish among stakeholders and local communities. 
4. Build capacity and international collaborations to protect the stone crayfish. 

Participants

1. Fortis Visio Ltd. BG – Coordinator 
2. Science for Nature Foundation BG – Partner 
3. Institut po ribarstvo i akvakulturi, Plovdiv BG – Partner 
4. Stichting Blue Rivers NL – Partner 
5. INSTITUT PO BIORAZNOOBRAZIE I EKOSISTEMNI IZSLEDVABG – Partner 
6. EXECUTIVE ENVIRONMENT AGENCY BG – Partner