COASTAL, MARINE AND ISLAND
SPECIFIC
BIODIVERSITY
Arab
Women’s
Enterprise Fund
MANAGEMENT
IN ESA-I0 COASTAL
(AWEF)
(PO 7034)
STATES
Technical Tender (May 2015)
STE13 Mission Report. The status of freshwater
biodiversity in Mauritius and Rodrigues.
A desktop review
October 2015
PROJECT MANAGEMENT UNIT
BLUE
TOWER – 4THwith
FLOOR
In association
RUE DE L’INSTITUT, EBENE
MAURITIUS
Landell Mills Consortium
The PMU, appointed by the contractor LANDELL MILLS Consortium, has prepared this
report. The findings, conclusions and interpretations expressed in this document are
those of the PMU alone and should in no way be taken to reflect the policies or opinions of
the European Commission or the Indian Ocean Commission.
Project Title:
Coastal, Marine and Island Specific Biodiversity Management in
ESA-I0 Coastal States
CRIS decision number: RSO//FED/022-995
Funding:
10Th European Development Fund
Beneficiary countries: Comoros, Kenya, Madagascar, Mauritius, Seychelles, Tanzania
Contracting Authority
Lead Contractor
Name:
Indian Ocean Commission
Landell Mills Consortium
(Landell Mills – AGROTEC
PROMAN)
Address:
Blue Tower – 3th Floor
Rue de l’Institut,
Ebene
MAURITIUS
Bryer Ash Business Park
Bradford Road, Trowbridge,
BATH BA14 8HE
UNITED KINGDOM
Contact person:
Ms. Gina BONNE
Mr. Patrick LEE
Tel. number:
+230 402 6100
+44 (0) 1225 763777
Fax number:
+230 465 6798
+44 (0) 1225 753678
Email:
[email protected]
[email protected]
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Contents
Glossary ................................................................................................3
Executive Summary ..............................................................................4
1.
Background ..................................................................................6
1.1.
Value of freshwater Biodiversity ............................................................................ 6
1.2.
Global status of freshwater biodiversity ................................................................ 6
1.2.1. Species diversity ........................................................................................................ 6
1.2.2. Major threats to freshwater species ........................................................................... 6
1.2.3. Species threatened status ......................................................................................... 7
2.
Methodology and definitions ......................................................8
2.1.
Scope of this work ................................................................................................... 8
2.2.
Definition of Freshwater Biodiversity in this context ............................................ 8
2.3.
Inland water ecosystems services ......................................................................... 9
3.
Freshwater Fish and Crayfish ................................................... 10
3.1.
Overview of the fish fauna .................................................................................... 10
4.
Entomofauna .............................................................................. 12
4.1.
Odonata (dragonflies and damselflies) ................................................................ 12
4.1.1. Overview of the Odonata Fauna .............................................................................. 12
4.1.2. Dytiscidae (Water beetles) ....................................................................................... 13
4.1.3. Aquatic beetles (Coleoptera: Hydraenidea) ............................................................. 14
5.
Freshwater molluscs .................................................................15
5.1.
Overview of the Molluscan fauna ......................................................................... 15
6.
Freshwater reptiles ....................................................................17
7.
Amphibians ................................................................................ 18
8.
Birds related to inland waters ................................................... 19
9.
Freshwater flora .........................................................................20
9.1.
Phanerogam ........................................................................................................... 20
9.2.
Freshwater Algae ................................................................................................... 21
9.3.
Dyatoms ................................................................................................................. 21
10.
Conservation status and threats .............................................. 22
10.1. Major threats .......................................................................................................... 22
10.1.1. Water extraction and dams ...................................................................................... 22
10.1.2. Pollution................................................................................................................... 23
10.1.3. Climate change and severe weather ........................................................................ 23
10.1.4. Invasive alien species .............................................................................................. 24
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10.1.5. Harvesting ............................................................................................................... 32
11.
Legal Framework and Institutional setup. ................................ 33
11.1. International Conventions..................................................................................... 33
11.2. The Ramsar convention. ....................................................................................... 35
11.3. Regional convention ............................................................................................. 35
11.3.1. The Nairobi Convention ........................................................................................... 35
11.4. National framework ............................................................................................... 36
12.
Conservation status and recommendations ............................ 40
12.1. Red list status ........................................................................................................ 40
12.2. Recommendations................................................................................................. 42
12.2.1. Knowledge ............................................................................................................... 42
12.2.2. Legislation and enforcement .................................................................................... 43
12.2.3. Pollution reduction: support the bio certification, training for farmers (washing equipment
in rivers)................................................................................................................... 44
12.2.4. Management of Invasive species ............................................................................. 44
12.2.5. Raising awareness .................................................................................................. 44
12.2.6. Freshwater Key Biodiversity Areas (KBAs) .............................................................. 44
13.
Relevant data or database......................................................... 46
14.
Round table on freshwater biodiversity ...................................47
15.
Action plan ................................................................................. 48
16.
17.
Stakeholders list ........................................................................50
References ................................................................................. 52
ANNEX 1 – Fishbase data of freshwater fish for Mauritius and
Rodrigues ................................................................................... 56
ANNEX 2 : Water Hyacinth .................................................................61
ANNEX 3: list of Coleopetra sp. in Mauritius and Rodrigues with
associate entomofauna references .......................................... 63
ANNEX 4: Freshwater Biodiversity round table notes of meeting. .67
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Glossary
Coastal Zone is the portion of the global ocean where physical, biological and biogeochemical
processes are directly affected by land and includes the portion of the land adjacent to the coast that
influences coastal waters. It is important to understand that there is no one accepted definition of the
coastal zone, particularly in terms of how far inland coastal zones reach.
Ecosystem Management can be defined as management driven by explicit goals, executed by
policies, protocols, and practices, and made adaptable by monitoring and research based on our best
understanding of the ecological interactions and processes necessary to sustain ecosystem structure
and function. According to the Convention on Biological Diversity (CBD), the Ecosystem Approach is a
strategy for the integrated management of land, water and living resources that promotes conservation
and sustainable use in an equitable way. The Ecosystem Approach places human needs at the centre
of biodiversity management. It aims to manage the ecosystem, based on the multiple functions that
ecosystems perform and the multiple uses that are made of these functions. The ecosystem approach
does not aim for short-term economic gains, but aims to optimize the use of an ecosystem without
damaging it.
Integrated Coastal Zone Management (ICZM) is a process for the management of the coast using an
integrated approach, regarding all aspects of the coastal zone, including geographical and political
boundaries, in an attempt to achieve sustainability. It is a strategy for an integrated approach to
planning and management, in which all policies, sectors and, to the highest possible extent, individual
interests are properly taken into account, with the proper consideration given to the full range of
temporal and spatial scales, and involving stakeholders in a participative way. It addresses all three
dimensions of sustainability: socio/cultural, economic and environmental.
Integrated Flood Management (IFM) integrates land and water resources development in a river
basin, within the context of Integrated Water Resources Management, with a view to maximizing the
efficient use of floodplains and to minimizing loss of life and property.
Integrated Water Resources Management (IWRM) has been defined as a process which promotes
the coordinated development and management of water, land and related resources, in order to
maximize the resultant economic and social welfare in an equitable manner without compromising the
sustainability of vital ecosystems.
Riparian zone is the interface between land and a river or stream. Plant habitats and communities
along the river margins and banks are called riparian vegetation, characterized by hydrophilic plants.
Riparian zones are significant in ecology, environmental management, and civil engineering because of
their role in soil conservation, their habitat biodiversity, and the influence they have on fauna and
aquatic ecosystems, including grassland, woodland, wetland or even non-vegetative.
River Basin is the portion of land drained by a river and its tributaries. It encompasses the land surface
dissected and drained by many streams and creeks that flow downhill into one another, and eventually
into one river.
Watersheds, like river basins, are areas of land that drain to a particular water body, such as a lake,
stream, river or estuary. The term watershed is used to describe a smaller area of land that drains to a
smaller stream, lake or wetland. There are many smaller watersheds within a river basin.
3
Executive Summary
The Mauritius and Rodrigues freshwater biodiversity plays an important role covering mountains and
lagoons and accordingly, inland waters constitute a specific programme of work in the Convention for
Biological diversity. Specific areas are also often protected under the Ramsar convention. Although the
government of Mauritius pays special attention to its water resources in terms of infrastructure and
engineering, the living matter in and around the waters are in a grey zone where there are no clear
responsibilities. At the request of the government of Mauritius, this study was initiated and supported by
the Biodiversity project of the COI.
“Freshwater” means naturally occurring water on the earth’s surface in bogs, ponds, lakes, reservoirs
and canals. It was differentiated from Wetlands which will be soon covered by a specific law. This
desktop study looked at the available literature in this specific timeframe (3 months) and compiles
information on the relevant biodiversity on freshwater and on flora and fauna depending thereon. The
initial draft was shared with relevant stakeholders and a roundtable was organized in order to fill the
knowledge gaps and set the basis for a national action plan.
The different data that were compiled shows according to Keith et al (2006), that there are 31 species
of fish, 11 species of crustacean (1 extinct), out of which 33 are native. On fishbase (Froese & Pauly,
2015) there is mention is made of 57 species of fish in Mauritius, but these could include introduced
fish. The specificity of Mauritius lies in its high proportion (10 species) of freshwater macro crustaceans
with 4 endemics. The insects’ diversity dependent on inland waters is rich with 26 species of
dragonflies, with 7 endemics (Dijkstra and Clausnitzer 2004), 26 species of water beetles (Wewalka,
1976), 30 species of aquatic beetles (Bameul, 1986). From the mollusc described by Starmuhlner in
1983 (21 species in Mauritius and 18 in Rodrigues), Griffiths and Florens (2006) found 2 decades after,
19 species in the freshwater courses in Mauritius and 8 in Rodrigues. There are 4 known introduced
freshwater turtles in Mauritius according to Van Dijk et al (2011). Only 2 introduced amphibians have
been recorded in Mauritius and Rodrigues. There are several birds directly linked to our inland
freshwater both in Mauritius and Rodrigues. Permanent species found are the Swamp Chicken
(Gallinula chloropus), more recently around the Casela Bird Park, the Egyptian goose, and 2 other
ducks (MWF, press release 2013). In the wetlands and along the rivers, there are also several other
species that are migratory like the Curlew (Numenius phaeopus), but also other tern species, herons,
egrets and bitterns. The flora in the riparian zone and in marshes and ponds is rich but also heavily
invaded. There are 24 native higher plant species from 14 families that are strongly associated
with freshwater ecosystems (3 endemics). (NBSAP, 2001).. In terms of algae, Bourrelly and Gouté
(1986) identified some 193 taxa of freshwater algae reported from the standing and running waters of
Mauritius. For the dyatons, Coste & Ricard (1982, 1984) did also some systematic work to identify
these in our waters.
Numerous threats have reduced this biodiversity in link to the rapid development of the islands. Other
factors include the subsequent pressure on the water resources and the outdated system of water
rights that does not take into account the ecosystem services minimum flow. The dams built without
taking into account the living organisms, affect the cycle of reproduction of certain species that breed at
sea and return to the freshwater flows. In recent years, Mauritius inland waters have been suffering
from a multitude of invasive species both fauna and flora that are affecting both the biodiversity and the
economic link to the resources. Adding to these effects are cumulative impacts of climate change, water
pollution and the changes on the river banks.
4
Several international conventions that Mauritius has signed in the last decades support a sound
management of the freshwater biodiversity (CBD inland water programme of work and relevant Aichi
targets, Ramsar convention and also the Nairobi convention with its protocol on coastal zone
management). Unfortunately these are not properly reflected in the national legal framework that lacks
protection for its freshwater biodiversity with a large gap, that could have been included in the EPA,
under the ICZM section but the local definition of coastal zone has not been defined according to the
convention (ecosystem based) but according to an arbitrary 1km range from the coast. This should be
changed in order to allow for protection of the Freshwater biodiversity but also to enable the ministry of
environment to have an overarching supervising role on Mauritian biodiversity protection.
The round table organized with the relevant stakeholders in mid-October confirmed the initial needs:
 For a stronger consideration of the ecosystem functions and services. It has therefore set for
initial priority to fill the knowledge gap in order to make intelligent decisions and support an
integrated approach.
 For a more coordinated inter-ministerial approach from an ecosystem point of view.
 To revise all the environment laws in order to prepare a better harmonized system of laws.
 To create a new Freshwater Biodiversity Unit (FBU) to bridge the existing supervisory gaps.
 To continue to strengthen the existing work with supporting planters on the sound management
of herbicides/pesticides.
 To focus on management options in regard to the invasive species in the rivers and on the
riparian zone which is heavily infested. It will need a specific support in that regard.
 To link schools and communities to their ecosystems through education and awareness.
 To identify solutions with relevant ministries for the collection of large solid waste that are often
thrown into rivers, canals etc. and launch a communication campaign to this effect.
The present biodiversity project of the COI is prepared to continue its support in order to bridge this
biodiversity gap in Mauritius and proposes to support: (1) a nationally organized rapid assessment
together with the setting up of bio-indicators, (2) A specific focus on the invasive species and their
management, (3) Bridge the gap in the freshwater algae knowledge and references samples and finally
(4) assist with and economic valuation of the national freshwater biodiversity.
5
1. Background
1.1. Value of freshwater Biodiversity
While covering less than 1% of the Earth’s surface freshwater ecosystems provide humans with a
wealth of goods and services, and provide a home for around 10% of the worlds described species,
including a quarter of all vertebrates (Strayer and Dudgeon 2010). Their value to human society is
easily seen through the direct services they provide, such as fish for food or water purification for
drinking, but they also provide many indirect services which provide almost universal benefits such as
nutrient cycling, flood control and water filtration. Putting a dollar value on these services is extremely
difficult as many have no market value. For example, the Millennium Ecosystem Assessment (MEA
2005) values the total goods and services derived from inland waters globally at up to USD 15 trillion,
whilst another study estimates a value of USD 70 billion (Schuyt and Branden 2004). Tropical inland
fisheries alone have been valued at USD 5.58 billion per year (Neiland and Béné 2008). Despite their
clear economic value many inland water ecosystems, especially wetlands, have long been considered
a wasteful use of land and are rarely protected. Lack of recognition for the value of these systems has
already led to the loss many of the world’s wetlands and rates of species loss have, in some cases,
been estimated at five times greater than those seen in other ecosystems.
1.2. Global status of freshwater biodiversity
(Modified from Smith et al, 2009, 2014, Allen et al. 2010)
1.2.1. Species diversity
Freshwater biodiversity constitutes a vitally important component of the planet, with a species richness
that is relatively higher compared to both terrestrial and marine ecosystems (Gleick 1996). The
freshwater ecosystem supports various orders of animals, plants and fungi, contributing to a quarter of
vertebrate diversity and almost as much of invertebrate diversity described to date. The order Odonata,
a group largely dependent upon freshwater ecosystems, is known by 6,500 described species
(Trueman and Rowe 2009), and the phylum Mollusca with eight extant classes is composed of nearly
93,000 species, 70,000 of which are known gastropods (Haszprunar 2001). Although comparatively
better studied than the marine ecosystem, the rapidly increasing species diversity of freshwater fishes
contributes nearly 50% of all the fish presently described (Froese and Pauly 2010).
1.2.2. Major threats to freshwater species
It is widely recognised that freshwater biodiversity and habitats are under serious threat (Revenga and
Kura 2003, Lévêque et al. 2005, Dudgeon et al. 2006) and that the level of threat exceeds, or will soon
exceed, that in either terrestrial or marine ecosystems (e.g., WWF Living Planet Index 2004, Millennium
Ecosystem Assessment 2005). Dudgeon et al. (2006) grouped the main threats under five interacting
categories: over-exploitation; water pollution; flow modification; destruction or degradation of
habitat; and invasion by exotic species. Environmental changes occurring at the global scale, such
6
as nitrogen deposition, warming, and shifts in precipitation and runoff patterns, are superimposed upon
all of these threat categories. The primary indirect drivers of degradation and loss of habitat have been
population growth and increasing economic development and the primary direct drivers of degradation
and loss include infrastructure development, land conversion, water withdrawal, pollution, overharvesting and over-exploitation, and the introduction of invasive alien species (Millennium Ecosystem
Assessment 2005). In Africa the most immediate impacts are likely to include habitat degradation and
flow modification due to the actions of development projects aimed at meeting the growing requirement
for access to safe drinking water, improved sanitation, irrigation for agriculture, and hydropower.
1.2.3. Species threatened status
Parties to the Convention on Biological Diversity (CBD) at its Sixth Conference of Parties in The Hague,
Netherlands (2002), resolved ‘to achieve by 2010 a significant reduction of the current rate of
biodiversity loss at the global, regional and national level as a contribution to poverty alleviation and to
the benefit of all life on earth’ (CBD 2002). Although the ‘2010 targets’ under this CBD commitment
were not met (Butchart et al. 2010), the premise of the targets remains fundamentally solid. At the CBD
10th Conference of Parties (2010), the targets were reiterated (as the Aichi 2020 Biodiversity Targets)
with more emphasis on achieving them over the next ten years. A mid-term review of progress towards
the Aichi biodiversity 2020 targets (the IUCN Red List being one of the key indicators to monitor
progress) shows that despite the accelerating policy and management responses to the biodiversity
crisis, the impacts of these efforts are unlikely to be reflected in improved trends in the state of
biodiversity by 2020 (Tittensor et al. 2014). Therefore in order to meet these targets, and conserve
biodiversity, and secure human well-being, additional effort is needed to reduce pressures on
biodiversity. In keeping with the principles of the Convention on Biological Diversity, biodiversity trends
and losses can be monitored by assessing the conservation status of species. There are several
methods of determining species status, and the most commonly used tool is the IUCN Red List
Categories and Criteria (IUCN 2012), which allows consistency in approach across different taxonomic
groups. It helps in determining the relative risk of extinction and providing the basis for understanding if
a species is Extinct, threatened (Critically Endangered, endangered or Vulnerable), Near Threatened,
of Least Concern, or lacking sufficient basic data for assessment (Data Deficient). The IUCN Red List of
Threatened SpeciesTM publishes the results of the assessments at www.iucnredlist.org. The IUCN Red
List also provides basic information on species taxonomy, distributions, habitat and ecology, threats,
population trends, use and trade, and research and conservation priorities.
7
2. Methodology and definitions
2.1. Scope of this work
This initial stock take of freshwater biodiversity in Mauritius and Rodrigues will focus on the biodiversity
aspect and therefore will not look into the physical or chemical aspects, although these are greatly
interdependent. Numerous resources are available on these different aspects (Proag 1995, 2006) and
also within the parastatal bodies looking after the water resources (CWA, WRU, CEB, WWA).
The Mauritian administrative system does not allow direct contact from the COI administration to the
technical ministries. A request was sent through the Ministry of Foreign Affairs in order to obtain data
from the different administrations. This process has some limitation, as it takes more time with
numerous delays and adds another administration layer to the process, and makes the control over the
logistics more difficult. The main data for this study were provided from the peer reviewed literature;
others by online database.
2.2. Definition of Freshwater Biodiversity in this context
“Freshwater” means naturally occurring water on the earth’s surface in bogs, ponds, lakes,
reservoirs and canals
These “Inland waters” are aquatic-influenced environments located within land boundaries. This
definition does not include those located in coastal areas, even where adjacent to marine environments.
Inland water systems as defined here is fresh, but not saline or a mix of the two (brackish water). The
wetlands are not part of this definition, as its management will be included in a “Wetlands Bill” (in
preparation). Rather than impose artificial boundaries, it is better to view freshwater from the
perspective of the wider ecosystem of which they are part. Freshwater ecosystems are ecologically
dynamic. They are not amenable to artificial conceptual boundaries. They are best considered from the
landscape or ecosystem perspective.
“Inland water ecosystems” as defined under the CBD, include land. From the ecological,
hydrological, environmental and socio-economic perspective, all land is an integral part of an inland
water ecosystem because fresh water (usually from rain) runs off it into rivers, lakes and wetlands.
“Inland water habitat” also includes land that is influenced directly by aquatic habitat. For example, the
vegetation near water bodies (in the riparian zone), even if never submerged, is influenced greatly by
proximity to water. The clearest example of land-water interactions is with seasonally flooded areas,
e.g., river floodplains, which may be dry or submerged depending on flood conditions.
Mauritius being a signatory to the CBD, it has also set for target some conservation status for its inland
water biodiversity, with the Aichi target 11 under the strategic goal C: “To improve the status of
biodiversity by safeguarding ecosystems, species and genetic diversity”.
8
AICHI TARGET 11:
“By 2020, at least 17 per cent of terrestrial and inland water, and 10 per cent of
coastal and marine areas, especially areas of particular importance for biodiversity
and ecosystem services, are conserved through effectively and equitably
managed, ecologically representative and well-connected systems of protected
areas and other effective area-based conservation measures, and integrated into
the wider landscapes and seascapes.”
Simply put, it is biodiversity associated with freshwater. But since all terrestrial
animals and plants depend on fresh water, the boundaries between aquatic and terrestrial are blurred.
At the species level, the freshwater biodiversity generally includes all life forms that depend upon
freshwater habitat for things other than simply drinking (or transpiration in plants). Besides the obvious
life in the water itself (e.g., fish), this also includes many “terrestrial” species of animals (e.g., water
birds), and plants (e.g. Vegetation associated with the margins of water bodies). The majority of
amphibians, for example, breed in fresh water.
This ecosystem diversity is very complex and includes both aquatic and terrestrial influences;
maintaining it is critical to sustain the ecosystem services.
2.3. Inland water ecosystems services
Freshwater biodiversity underpins the provision
of most goods and services that freshwater
ecosystems provide to people. These are
diverse and include not only direct use for food,
drink, medicine but also benefits such as
pollution and nutrient absorption and recycling,
flood management, drinking-water supply and
mitigation against the impacts of natural
catastrophes and climate change. Also, it is
often difficult to distinguish between the values
of water itself and the role of biodiversity in its
provisioning. According to the CBD, The
biodiversity of freshwater ecosystems is
declining faster than for any other biome.
The freshwater biodiversity of Mauritius is
mainly contained within some 90 rivers and
rivulets for Mauritius and 43 for Rodrigues
several human-made reservoirs like La
Ferme and Mare aux Vacoas, natural lakes
such as Bassin Blanc Crater lake, as well
as ponds and marshy areas (4th National
report to CBD, 2010). Due to the fact that there
is no clear management of the freshwater
biodiversity in Mauritius (NBSAP, 2001), there is
a need to fill this gap and this document aims at
helping in this process.
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3. Freshwater Fish and Crayfish
3.1. Overview of the fish fauna
The initial work on freshwater fish started in the eighteenth century with the trip around the world of L.A.
Bougainville. Bougainville was joined by P. Commerson on “Boudeuse” and “l’étoile” (1766-1769).
Further expeditions improved the knowledge on the freshwater fish after that and were followed up by
the work of J. Desjardins with “Société d'histoire naturelle de l'île Maurice”, the specimens collected
were send to Cuvier.
The most recent comprehensive publication on freshwater fish was done by l’Agence Reunionaise pour
le Development de l’Aquaculture (ARDA, now changed to “Hydro-Reunion”), where electric fishing
sampling was done in 2002. The water courses were sampled in conjunction with experts from Central
Water Authority (CWA) and the Water Resources Unit (WRU). The sampling contains 16 stations
across 8 rivers. In this sampling mission a total of 18 fish species were identified, 13 native freshwater
fish species were found. , with two being Mascarene endemics and another two being endemic to the
Mascarene-Madagascar region. The other species have a much wider distribution: five are Indo-African
and four are Indo-Pacific species. In comparaison to La Reunion, the fish density was much lower, but
the eels were of bigger size (A. marmorata & A. mossambica)
According to Keith et al (2006), work based on the ARDA sampling there are 31 species of fish, 11
species of crustacean (1 extinct), out of which 33 are native.
According to Froese & Pauly (2015) there are 57 species of fish within Mauritian freshwater, out of
which 22 are introduced, 34 native and one endemic.
See ANNEX 1 for descriptive lists
At least 3 of the eels found in the freshwater of Mauritius ( A. bicolor bicolor, A. marmorata, and A.
mosambica) have a reproduction cycle whereby they move to the sea and back?. The presumed area
where they gather could be in the vicinity of the Nazareth banks, but this has not been verified yet (see
below).
10
Slide extract from T. Robinet 2006: Etat des connaissances Biogéographiques, in Actes du séminaire
"Anguilles du Sud-Ouest de l'Océan Indien"
In Mauritius there are ten species of freshwater macro crustaceans belonging to two families (Atyidae,
with six Caridina spp. and one Atyoida) and to Palaemonidae (with two Macrobrachium and one
Palaemon) (ARDA, 2003). Three of these species are endemic to Mauritius, and one to the
Mascarenes, while the rest are of Indo-Pacific distribution. Most of these species occur at higher
densities than in corresponding habitats on La Réunion.
11
4. Entomofauna
4.1. Odonata (dragonflies and damselflies)
4.1.1. Overview of the Odonata Fauna
Picture of Thalassothemis marchali (EN) from Mauritius. Credit A. Skinner
The major assessments of odonata were done by Fraser (1949a&b, 1950, 1957) and followed up by
Pinhey (1955, 1961, and 1962). There were 26 species identified, one has disappeared in the first half
of the 20th century, probably due to the lack of habitats.
The smaller islands and archipelagos in the Western Indian Ocean typically have around twenty
species (25 for Mauritius), of which a quarter to a third is endemic (see Table below). The isolation of
Mauritius and Reunion influenced the dragonfly faunas. It seems possible that the islands have yet to
yield more endemics. Réunion and Mauritius share one endemic sp. Endemism and diversity are
greatest on the island’s wet eastern coast (Dijkstra and Clausnitzer 2004)
12
Table showing comparison of Afrotropical islands, sorted by distance to Africa or Madagascar (with
asterisk). Cape Verde, the Comoros and Seychelles consist of several larger islands each. Réunion
and Mauritius share one endemic; Argiocnemis solitaria of Rodrigues is considered invalid. Adapted
from: Dijkstra (2010).
4.1.2. Dytiscidae (Water beetles)
According to Wewalka (1976) there are at least 26
species of Dytiscidae from Mauritius (see table
below). Later taxonomic revision (Balke, 1992 and
Hjalmarsson et al. 2013) did review the Rhantus
species of the Mascarene Islands outside of
Madagascar and concluded that previous records
were erroneous and that three species were endemic
for this area, each to one of the three islands
Mauritius, La Reunion and Rodrigues.
Rhantus socialis (Waterhouse) and R. phoecaenarum
Guignot are endemic to Rodrigues and La Réunion,
respectively. The third Mascarene Rhantus is R.
vinsoni sp.n. from Mauritius. A lectotype is designated
for R. socialis. Important features are illustrated for all
of these species. Mascarene Rhantus are very
probably of Ethiopian origin. The biology of R. socialis
and R. vinsoni is unknown. (Balke, 1992).
13
4.1.3. Aquatic beetles (Coleoptera: Hydraenidea)
Work on this group started in the 18th century with several descriptions from Mauritius and Rodrigues
within the Mascarene works and Jean Vinson in 1958 propose the first list for Mauritius and Rodrigues.
He identifies 15 new species in a total list of 30 hydrophylidae (2 Hydraenidea) for Mauritius and 6 (1
Hydraenidea) from Rodrigues. (Bameul, 1986).
More recent work (Jach & Bojer, 2012), described following a visit from Michael Madl in 2008 a new
species, the Hydraena legorskyi sp.n. from Rodrigues. In 2013, Jach & Delgado did a taxonomic
revision on this species for the mascarene islands (Table below).
Limnebius curidius
ORCHYMONT, 1941
Limnebius vinsoni
ORCHYMONT, 1941
Limnebius oweni
sp.n.
Limnebius pollex
sp.n.
Limnebius apolloniae
sp.n.
Mauritius
X (grand basssin)
La Reunion
X (le pouce)
X (Baie du Cap)
X (le pouce)
X St Paul
All Mauritian species of Limnebius are endemic to the island. Three of these species, L. pollex, L.
vinsoni and L. curidius seem to be confined to higher elevations, living above 500 m a.s.l. The fourth
species, L. oweni occurs at lower elevations, from the coast up to 300 m a.s.l. All Mauritian species
seem to be rare and at risk. Only one of the Mauritian species, Limnebius oweni, can be regarded as
wide-spread on the island, but it is obviously also quite rare (IUCN risk assessment: Near Threatened,
NT). Limnebius pollex seems to be confined to Le Pouce Mountain, where its population presently can
be regarded as quite strong (IUCN risk assessment: Vulnerable, VU). In recent years, L. vinsoni was
also found only on Le Pouce Mountain, where a single specimen could be traced in 2012 (IUCN risk
assessment: Critically Endangered, CR). Finally, L. curidius has not been found at all for 77 years.
Therefore, it is one of the few species of water beetles that should be regarded as extinct worldwide.
(Please see in ANNEX 3 for a the full list of species and relevant references for the
entomofauna)
14
5. Freshwater molluscs
5.1. Overview of the Molluscan fauna
Illustration extracted from Griffiths & Florens (2006), Drawing Michael Shea
The exploration of freshwater gastropods started early in the colonization of the Mascarene Islands, the
first description was from Bory de St Vincent in 1804. Starmuhlner (1969, 1983) was the first one to
describe a comprehensive set of publications. The most recent comprehensive publication was in 2006
with “A field guide to the non-marine molluscs of the Mascarene Islands” by O. Griffiths and V.F.B.
Florens.
Starmuhlner (1983) mention for the freshwater gastropods (21 species in Mauritius and 18 in
Rodrigues). Rodrigues freshwater gastropods were collected by a Lund University mission in 1973. In
the more recent assessment and publication from Griffiths and Florens, 19 molluscs were found in our
freshwater courses in Mauritius and 8 in Rodrigues.
Species
Clithon longispina
Neritila consimilis
Neritinnia auriculata
Neritina gagates
Septaria borbonica
Bellamya bengalensis
Mauritius
X (native)
X (native)
X (native)
X (native)
X (native)
X (int)
Rodrigues
X (native)
X (native)
X (native)
X (int)
15
Pomacea caniculata
Melanoides tuberculata
Thiara amarula
Thiara scabra
Paludinella sp.
Austropeplea viridus
Lymnaea natalensis
Bulinus cernicus
Gyraulus mauritianus
Helisoma duryi
Physa acuta
Ferrissia modesta
Eupera ferruginea
Total number of species
Number of native/end species
Number of introduced species
X (int, inv)
X (native)
X (native)
X (native)
X (native)
X (int)
X (int)
X (int)
X (endemic)
X? (int)
X (int)
X (native)
X? (int)
19
12
7
X (native)
X (native)
X (int)
X (native)
8
6
2
Table of the freshwater molluscs extracted from Griffiths & Florens (2006)
16
6. Freshwater reptiles
There are 4 known introduced freshwater turtles in
Mauritius according to Van Dijk et al (2011).
 The Chinese softshell turtle (Pelodiscus sinensis);
 The East African black mud turtle (Pelusios
subniger),, traditionally found in eastern and
southeastern Africa, including Madagascar;
 Red eared slider (Trachemys scripta elegans);
 The Dinner-plate turtle (Chelodina steindachneri) .
17
7. Amphibians
Only 2 introduced amphibians have been recorded in
Mauritius and Rodrigues.
 The
Mascarene
grass
frog
(Ptychadena
mascareniensis) Rodel et al (2004). See picture on
the right by Franco Andreone;
 The
African
gutturalis).
common
toad
(Amietophrynus
18
8. Birds related to inland waters
Curlew (Alopochen aegyptiacus) & Swamp chiken (Gallinula chloropus ) Picture credit :
Barloventomagico & Martin Cooper
There are several birds directly linked to our inland freshwater both in Mauritius and Rodrigues.
Permanent species found are the Swamp chicken/poules d’eau (Gallinula chloropus), more recently
found around the Casela bird park, the Egyptian goose (Alopochen aegyptiacus) seen in the area of
Yemen, Flic en Flac, Medine on the irrigation ponds. But also in the same region we can see the Whitefaced Whistling Duck ( Dendrocygna viduata) and the Fulvous Whistling Duck ( Dendrocygna bicolor)
(MWF, press release 2013). In the wetlands and along the rivers there are also several other species
that are migratory like the Curlew (Numenius phaeopus), but also other tern species, heron, egrets and
bitterns. Temple (1974) recorded in Mauritius 52 species of seabirds and shorebirds (10 sp. breeding
residents, 16 sp. oceanic vagrants, 24 sp. Palaearctic migrants) of which some species are feeding in
the wetlands.
19
9. Freshwater flora
9.1. Phanerogam
There are currently nine surviving endemic vacoas
species (Pandanus
spp.) with half of them
maintaining world populations estimated at 200
or less, including P. palustris with only about 30
known individuals, out of the ten known to grow
in marshes and streams or to be restricted to
wet places very close to rivers (Bosser & Guého,
2003).
According to the Flore des Mascareignes (19742003), there are also an additional 24 native higher
plant species from 14 families that are strongly
associated with freshwater ecosystems. These include eight submerged aquatic species
examples being Utricullaria gibba and U. stellaris, the only native carnivorous plants of Mauritius;
two floating aquatics, Lemna perpusilla and Spirodela punctata and 14 species that are rooted
under water but have aerial shoots. 3 Of the 24 species being referred to are endemic to
Mauritius, including one, which appears to be extinct (Eriocaulon johnstoni). (NBSAP, 2001).
… Pandanus dominated marshes on poorly drained soils within wet forest area. The upland
marshlands are dominated by hydrophytic sedges and grasses inter-mixed with hammocks of drier,
rocky ground occupied by Erica heath forest transitioning into thickets of Sideroxylon (Vaughan &
Wiehe 1937), having significant biological value due to the restricted area, large number of endemic
plants, most notably in the genus Pandanus (the Pandanetum sensu Vaughan & Wiehe 1937). …
Another type of inland freshwater ecosystem are natural and artificial lakes. These are found across
Mauritius, but no significant lakes or reservoirs are located on Rodrigues due to its smaller size and a
landscape dominated by rapid elevational rise but relatively low altitude limits that do not facilitate
orographic precipitation or downstream pooling. Of the twenty major features, only two have been
formed entirely through natural processes on Mauritius. These are Bassin Blanc and Grand Bassin,
which have formed in volcanic craters after the underlying magma chambers collapsed to create a
bowl-shaped depression ideally suited to collection of water. Since they are located at the top of the
watershed, little of this water arrives via surface flow or through water table exposure. In contrast,
eighteen major impoundments, collectively spread over a 1700 ha area, are specifically designed to
contain upstream surface flow. The largest of these reservoirs, Mare aux Vacoas and Midlands,
underpin the supply of freshwater in the country (NWFS & STEM 2008).
Coastal marshlands are found only on the island of Mauritius. These 203 wetlands are dominated by a
few cosmopolitan water plants such as Typha and Acrostichum and the majority (60%) are found
mainly in the north and north east regions. The distribution of the coastal marshlands is today strongly
shaped not only by natural physiography and water-shedding features, but also by both the long landuse history of the island and more recent backfilling activity attached to expansion of the built
20
environment . These processes have fragmented much of the natural marshland habitat, leading to an
increase in the number of marshes, while decreasing the overall marshland area. Around 90% of the
coastal wetlands have being affected by backfilling.
Extract from Vincent FLORENS ecosystem profile for Mauritius
Remark: A full list of freshwater flora is being processed by the Mauritius Herbarium and will be
provided in an annex at a later stage.
9.2. Freshwater Algae
From sampling done by Starmuhlner in 1974, and from other sampling from Gouté in 1982, Bourrelly
and Gouté (1986) identified some 193 taxa of freshwater algae reported from standing and
running waters of Mauritius Island. The cosmopolitan species in running mater are dominant in
the florula but some very rare taxa known from the tropical, or subtropical areas, such as the
Rhodophyceae Caloglossa, Compsopogon, Sirodotia and the Chlorophycea Coelastrum indicum
are also present. This study did not include the Dyatomophycea, these were preleminnary studies by
Costes & Ricard (1982), but data was not obtained for this desktop review.
The repartition of the 193 taxa is as follow:
Cyanophyceae : 47
(23,4% )
Rhodophyceae : 3
(1,5%)
Euglenophyceae : 10 (5,1%)
Xanthophyceae : 4
(2,1%)
Dinophyceae : 2
(1%)
Chlorophyceae : 66
(34,2%)
Zygophyceae : 61
(31,6%)
In La Reunion the same author found 101 taxa, out of which 22 are common to Mauritius.
9.3. Dyatoms
There are two publications from Coste & Ricard (1982, 1984) which mentioned systematic work on
Mauritius, but these were not obtained in the timeframe of this literature review.
 Coste, M., Ricard, M. (1982): Contribution à l’étude des diatomées d’eau douce des Seychelles
et de l’Île Maurice. Cryptogamie, Algologie 3: 279–313.
 Coste, M., Ricard, M. (1984): A systematic approach to the freshwater diatoms of Seychelles
and Mauritius Islands. In: Proceedings of the Seventh International Diatom Symposium,
Philadelphia, USA 1982 (D.G. Mann, ed.): 307-326. O. Koeltz, Koenigsten.
21
10. Conservation status and threats
10.1.Major threats
10.1.1.
Water extraction and dams
Picture showing a dam in Tamarind River (ARDA, 2002) and pumping in black river on the road to the
National Park (O. Tyack, 2015)
The disfunctionning of the ecosystem services provided by freshwater is strongly correlated to the
volume of water being pumped without control in the different water flows of Mauritius. These are
reducing the flow in such amplitude that they disturb completely the functioning of the ecosystem.
These induce impacts on the overall habitat surface, the quality of the habitat, the free circulation and
the biological cycle of the majority of the indigenous
species (eels, gobiidae, Cardinidae etc.).
The dams affect the cycle of reproduction of certain
species that breed at sea and return in the freshwater
flows.
There are also numerous examples of changes being
made to rivers or constructions on the riparian zone
that can be seen all around Mauritius they affect both
the river beds and the riparian zone. These have
been approved through the proper channel, but as
none of these entities examined the biodiversity
aspects, these decisions could be challenged.
22
10.1.2.
Pollution
ARDA (2003) explained that the low water quality
accounted for the low density of freshwater macro
fauna. This pollution from domestic, industrial and
agricultural sources can explain the few samples
obtained in comparison to La Reunion. In rural area,
there are often cases of chemical discharge in the
rivers and canals (right).
Pictures showing eutrophication in “Rivière des Anguilles” (Arda, 2002) and in Black River Gorges
(O. Tyack, 2015)
10.1.3.
Climate change and severe weather
Warming of the atmosphere has also impacted the hydrologic cycle over the southwest Indian Ocean.
Long-term time series of rainfall amount over the past century (1905 to 2007) show a decreasing trend
in annual rainfall over Mauritius. In fact the average rate of decrease per decade is around 57 mm. The
total decrease during the last ten years is about 8% when compared to the 1950s. Annual rainfall over
the outer islands indicate significant variation from year to year but long-term analysis do show
decreasing rainfall trend, though lesser than the main island Mauritius. Other observed impacts are:
 A lengthening of the intermediate dry season, the transition period between winter and summer,
has been observed.
 There has been a shift in the start of the summer rains. This shift in the onset of the rains is highly
significant as it translates into much pressure on the water sector to meet increasing demands
of the agricultural, tourism, industrial and domestic sectors.
 The number of consecutive dry days is increasing while the number of rainy days is
decreasing.
 Even though the number of rainy days is decreasing, heavy rainfall events leading to numerous
flash floods and temporary interruption of certain socio-economic activities during the summer
months of February and March has increased
23

The frequency of extreme weather events, heavy rains and storms of tropical cyclone strength
or higher, has increased significantly over the last two decades.
Source: Mauritius Meteorological Services, 2015
Evidence shows that many of the effects of climate change are already occurring. These include an
increase in the surface water temperature of basins, ponds and streams. In the future it is likely that
these trends will continue and it is probable that there will be changes in the flow regime of streams and
rivers associated with projected changes in the amount, seasonality, intensity and distribution of
precipitation. There will be changes in precipitation, evaporation and flooding dynamics that will cause
changes in water levels, habitat structure and water residence times in wetlands; small intermittent
streams and small lakes in warm dry areas may disappear, while flow in permanent streams may
become intermittent. The ecological response of freshwater ecosystems to climate change needs to
allow for interactions between climate change and the many stressors already affecting the freshwater
systems. These include water resource management, eutrophication, acidification, toxic substances,
hydro morphological change, catchment land-use change and invasion of exotic species. Overall
biodiversity reduction that may eventually lead to impaired ecosystem services.
For rivers, increased temperature will cause stress for fish and invertebrates with high oxygen
requirements leading to changes in community composition and an upstream shift in both the abiotic
and biotic characteristics of river systems along the river continuum. It will also restrict habitats for many
organisms, and some taxa. Changes in flow regime as a result of changes in the pattern and intensity
of precipitation are expected to have pronounced effects on river habitats and communities. Especially
at risk are systems that experience flow reductions significant enough to lead to reduced concentrations
of dissolved oxygen and an increased vulnerability to eutrophication. (Walther et al, 2002 Woodward et
al. 2010, Boodhoo, 2008)
10.1.4.
Invasive alien species
From the Global Invasive Species Database (GISD), there are 117 spp. (fauna and flora) identified as
invasive in Mauritian freshwater ecosystems. 25 spp. In watercourses, 13 sp. In lakes and basins, 35
sp. in wetlands and 44 in the riparian zones.
10.1.4.1
Invasive fauna ( contribution from D. Bissoonauthsing)
Invasive species are Introduced species with a high propagation potential which also have a
tendency to damage the environment (flora and fauna), human economy, and/or human health.
A considerable part of the loss of biodiversity is due to the effects of the introduction of invasive
species. In this context, Gurevitch and Padilla (2004) have compiled a list of species which could have
been affected by invasive species. Of the total 680 extinct species, the causes of 170 species have
been recorded. Those 170 representing 25%, 20% of those were caused by invasive species only, the
rest having been a combination of habitat destruction and hunting. Of those, an example of the effects
on a freshwater habitat can be seen in North American fish spp whereby, out of the 40 extinct fish, 27
were caused by invasive species only (Clavero et.al, 2005). Freshwater habitats are more at risk than
terrestrial or marine ones. This is due to the limited footprint and specific range of conditions found in
those habitats. Furthermore, freshwater organisms often exhibit a high degree of specialisation and
have a narrow range of living conditions including food items and chemical conditions. These results in
higher rates of extinction and the future expected extinction rate of freshwater organisms is expected to
reach up to five times that of land fauna and no less than the triple of coastal marine mammals
24
(Ricciardi et.al, 1999). These values bring the freshwater biome to the same level of vulnerability to that
of tropical rainforests which are the biomes with the highest rates of depletion, mainly due to habitat
destruction for the logging industry, but also due to human settlement expansion (Ricciardi et.al., 1999).
Moreover, these extinction rates are likely to be less than the actual value due to unknown species not
being documented (Miller et.al., 1989). This is considerably far from a natural rate of extinction since
McKinney (1997) mentioned that, based on data from fossil fish species, the usual mean duration of the
species is estimated at approximately 3 million years. This is contrasted by the fact that 40 spp of North
American fish have become extinct in the last 1000 years; equating to an extinction rate of one species
every 2600 years. This results in an extinction rate which is approximately 1000 times higher than the
natural background rate, all due to invasive species (Ricciardi, et.al., 1999).
The rivers often exhibit a rocky, silt, or sandy substrate and have allowed multiple species to establish
themselves in micro niches. The wide range of water flow (slow or faster moving current) has allowed
for an increased diversity and as such, fast moving species such as Xiphophorus helleri can be found in
the majority of water ways while slower species such as Gambusia affinis are only found in slow moving
rivers. A number of introduced species are present, although their presence has not been established
as causing a negative effect on the fauna in the case of most of the introduced species. However, some
exhibit characteristics which cause negative effects on the species and habitat. Those invasive species
are ones which reproduce quickly while outcompeting or predating upon other species and usually
causing great damage to their populations. These species often have relatively high rates of fertility
making their populations hard to control. 3 main species of invasive predatory fish have been identified
in Mauritius; namely Oreochromis spp, Channa striata and Clarias batrachus
How were they introduced?
3 main pathways were identified of which two main types occur. Intentional introductions such as:
food/game fish or as a means of biological control for pests (e.g.: Gambusia spp to control mosquitoes),
and unintentional introductions such as aquarium/ornamental fish that have been unknowingly released
without knowledge of their invasive potential. Fishes introduced as game fish are mostly Fish of the
genus Tilapia (Oreochromis spp & Tilapia spp), which due to having been present for a relatively long
time, have propagated in
the majority of freshwater systems in Mauritius, and are therefore
considered an established species. Another species which is considered established is the Gambusia
genus which has been introduced during the early 20th century/late 19th century as a means of
controlling the booming mosquito population, which was causing a Malaria outbreak. This measure
proved to be successful.. They have however dispersed to almost all water bodies on the island and are
probably the species with the widest range.
Those two means of introduction only account for a limited number of species as most introductions
were done via the aquarium trade with people releasing fish that had outgrown their tanks, or via floods
which could have submerged ornamental ponds, as is the case for carp species. Ornamental fish make
up to a third or the worlds introduced freshwater species (Padilla et al, 2004). This is further
exacerbated by the lack of control on species with high invasive potential. Lack of legislation often
stems from a lack of study on the impact of these invasive species.
List of major Invasive fish species in Mauritius:
Carassius Auratus, Channa striata, Clarias batrachus, Ctenopharyngodon idella, Cyprinus carpio,
Gambusia holbrooki, Gambusia affinis, Hypophthalmichthys molitrix, Micropterus dolomieu, Micropterus
salmoides, Oreochromis mossambicus, Oreochromis niloticus, Poecillia reticulate, Tilapia rendalli,
Tilapia zilli, Xiphophorus helleri.
25
Cyprinids such as Carassius auratus (Goldfish) and Cyprinus carpio (Common carp & Koi carp) were
introduced as aquarium fish. These species are considered invasive not due to their propagation
potential, Mauritian weather being sub-optimal to these species which thrive in colder waters, but
mainly due to their effect on the environment. Their foraging behaviour makes them browse through
the?substrate for invertebrates and vegetation, greatly increasing the turbidity of the water as a result.
The increase in turbidity can prove to be detrimental to local plant species depending on light
requirements. Common carps are thought to have been introduced as the often sold Aquarium koi carp,
which reverts to its wild colour form in a matter of a few generations when released to a natural setting
allowing gene mix. Other invasive cyprinids present are Ctenopharyngodon idella and
Hypophthalmichthys molitrix which are thought to have been introduced as game fish in local reserves
(Domaines). Hypophthalmichthys is molitrix a well-known species to conservationists due to its
extremely high invasive potential and its ability to outcompete local species. It has been documented as
being one of the major invasive fish species in North America, often infesting rivers to an extent where
multiple local fish species disappear from the region.
Poeciliids such as the Gambusia (Mosquitofish) species and Poecillia (guppies) are species well known
as a means of biological control for pests such as mosquitoes, especially those of the genus Anopheles
and Aedes which often carry highly infectious pathogens such as Malaria. As such, they are often
intentionally introduced to vulnerable countries or regions experiencing outbreaks such as Mauritius in
the early 20th century. They have however proved to be invasive through their extremely high
reproductive rate, adaptability, and the fact that they outcompete local fish species and also feed on
local invertebrates (of which some may have been mosquito predators). It is known that Gambusia
species are already established in Mauritius and have outcompeted Poecillia species.
Another Poeciliid is Xiphophorus helleri, the green swordtail which is a popular aquarium fish. This
species shares its range with the Gambusia species, but can additionally, inhabit faster moving rivers.
Its strong swimming capability also makes it less vulnerable to predators and therefore, boosts its
survivability. This has resulted in a species which has established itself in most freshwater systems
including reservoirs where Gambusia species do not fare well due to increased predation from larger
fish. Their high fecundity together with their hardy nature result in high populations which can put
pressure on local vegetation and invertebrates which are their food source. It is thought as having been
introduced through the aquarium trade during the early 20th century.
Micropterus salmoides (Largemouth bass) and Micropterus dolomieu, are popular gamefish that have
been introduced to a wide variety of countries for recreational fishing. It has been recorded as being
introduced to Mauritius in 1949 from South Africa in the case of M.salmoides, but is not often seen.
Their range is mostly restricted to large water bodies due to its relatively large size, and foraging needs;
being a highly predatory fish, this means it must feed on prey of substantial size such as tilapia, which
are present in sufficient quantities, mostly in open water bodies. Their predatory nature and large size
makes them a threat to local fish species on which they may predate upon.
Tilapia include Species of the genus Oreochromis and Tilapia, of which, O.mossambicus is the most
populous in Mauritius. Multiple introductions were made, they were introduced as game fish for
recreational fishing, but more importantly, as food fish, being very popular on the African continent.
Their high growth rate and similarly high reproductive rate have also made them popular for
aquaculture for which a special breed exhibiting colours thought as making the fish look more appealing
was created. This variant of O.mossambicus is called the “Bérie rouge”, and will readily interbreed with
wild Oreochromis. Their large size and strong swimming ability make them unlikely to be predated
upon. They have a high reproductive rate and exhibit parental care which considerably increases
survivability of their young. O.mossambicus is already established in Mauritius.
26
Channa striata (Striped snakehead) is a recently sighted species with a very high invasive potential.
Species of the genus Channa (Snakeheads) are all highly predatory and most grow to a substantial
size allowing them to prey on fish species of large size. This is coupled to an aggressive nature which
often results in them eating fish larger than them. They have a high invasive potential due to their
reproductive behaviour in which they provide extended parental care to young, but also, to the fact that
they can mate up to 5 times a year. They also have the ability to survive in sub-optimal conditions such
as droughts, by burying in mud and can thrive in relatively polluted water. They have an organ known
as a suprabranchial organ which allows them to breathe atmospheric air. This allows them to leave
water and move to other water bodies on land. Their dietary requirements and size have however
restricted their range to larger water bodies such as reservoirs and main rivers where they can prey on
large fish such as tilapia. Channa species are recognised as a highly invasive species worldwide and
banned in a number of countries including USA and UK. Snakeheads are relatively popular in the
aquarium fish trade and their large size may have resulted in fish that have overgrown their tanks to be
released in the wild.
Clarias batrachus is a highly invasive
species of catfish which has been
introduced through the fish trade during
the last 20 years in Mauritius. They
exhibit similar features and behaviour
as the Snakeheads, but have a
considerably higher growth rate, and
greater ability to move on land due to
their more developed suprabranchial
organ and rigid pectoral fins which they used to effectively move on land. Their large size makes them
less vulnerable to predation and they have developed burrowing behaviour to escape predators.
Furthermore, they are mostly nocturnal and remain hidden in day time, during which, potential
predators such as snakeheads forage. Clarias catfish are able to take smaller preys and do not require
large water bodies such as snakehead do. This allowed them to colonise smaller river systems and
ponds. They have a significant impact on the local environment and fauna as they will forage through
substrate for invertebrates, but also hunt in the water column for fish. As such, it can be observed that
water bodies having Clarias batrachus often have a greatly reduced biodiversity.
27
Invertebrates
Picture of eggs and shells of Pomacea caniculata on the side of irrigation retention at Casela.
Invasive Invertebrates have also been sighted in the waterways of Mauritius. Of those, the most
apparent is the Golden Apple Snail, Pomacea caniculata; a freshwater gastropod of the family
Ampullariidae. Species of this genus have often been documented as having invasive characteristics
and P.caniculata, or other Pomacea species have already established themselves in places such as
South East Asia, Sri lanka, Guam and Hawaii. Mauritius having a climate similar to these regions may
predict the outcome of the presence of Pomacea in the river system. Being popular in the aquarium
trade where it is commercialised as a ‘cleaner species’, they have most probably been released be
hobbyists during the past 50 years when they have started being available for purchase, and have
proliferated in slow and shallow waterways. Being a larger sized gastropod has limited predators to
relatively larger carnivorous fishes, most of which are restricted to the deeper waterways of the island.
This is evidenced by their absence in rivers where the invasive catfish species, Clarias batrachus is
present. They have been deemed an invasive species not only due to their reproductive ability, but also
to their destructive potential; being relatively voracious omnivores which thrive on vegetable matter
including semi aquatic crops such as watercress.
Although Ampullariidae are the only documented genus of invasive gastropod, 3 others may be present
in Mauritius. This includes snails of the genus Oncomelania, Bulinuss and Biomphalaria. All 3 are
potential threats due to them being documented vectors for the disease schistosomiasis (Bilharzia),
caused by Schistosoma species of parasitic worms. This is a debilitating disease acquired through
contact with water in which the parasites are present; the parasitic larvae being released from vector
snails. It is a common disease that primarily affects children of developing countries and other people
that may be in frequent contact with water where the snails are present.
A crustacean which has exhibited invasive characteristics and has been sighted in Mauritius is the
Australian red claw crayfish, Cherax quadricarinatus, (see flyer below) a popular species in aquaculture
and aquarium trade. It is a relatively large species of crayfish (up to 250mm and 800g) which exhibits a
high growth rate and the ability to tolerate a wide range of water conditions (often adverse). As the
locally cultured freshwater crustacean is the giant freshwater prawn, Macrobrachium rosenbergii, it is
more probable that the red claw has been introduced through release by aquarium hobbyists. They are
omnivores and exhibit high interspecific but low intraspecific aggression which results in a high fertility
rate. Being active predators, they will catch fish if able to and can therefore potentially damage native
fish and invertebrate populations although they are themselves prey to larger predatory fish species
such as Clarias and Channa species, hence their absence in waters where these species are present.
28
Amphibians
Cane toads, Rhinella marina, is the sole species of invasive amphibian in Mauritius. They have a high
invasive potential, as demonstrated by their infestation of northern Australia. They can reach substantial
sizes (up to 300mm) and are active predators which will attempt to eat most terrestrial animals which
29
they can fit in their mouth. They are highly fertile and have relatively high survivability when compared
to other amphibians. This is due to their skin secreting the toxin Bufotenin, which is lethal to most
animals such as dogs, fish and cats which would otherwise predate on them. Furthermore, adults share
their toxicity with tadpoles, which further decreases the probability of there being a control agent for
their numbers. This allows for an unchecked increase in their population which may impact local
species. Their introduction is most probably similar to the Australian case in that they have been
introduced as a biological control agent for crop pests. Species able to predate on the toad include the
native Giant Mottled eel, Anguilla marmorata.
What can be done & damage control
Most of the invasive species having been introduced through the aquarium trade, it points out a
weakness in the legislation stemming from the absence of studies on the matter which could more
efficiently identify the species with the highest invasive potential, but also the impact they would cause if
introduced. Alternative species which are safe (very low invasive potential) could be identified and
used as an alternative to the more invasive ones. For the species that have already been introduced,
studies on them would show their range and the propagation trend which would allow efforts to curb
their advance. This would be even more useful in the event of having to decrease the propagation of
catfish which often move on land to colonise new water systems. Furthermore, some species such as
largemouth bass would be responsive to control measures due to their solitary nature resulting in few
individuals per unit area. A study might also identify control methods for the population of these invasive
species (e.g.: removal of prey items).
10.1.4.2
Invasive flora
There are several types of species that are considered invasive in the Mauritian water flows, some are
affecting specific commercial activities (irrigation, electricity production, water distribution); others are
affecting the biodiversity. The full list of freshwater invasive flora has not been summarized in one
reference document, but here are some species that are recurrent in several flows.
Water Hyacinth (Eichhornia crassipes)
Water hyacinth can often be found in stagnant water in
Mauritius, in some cases in small basins/pools as well
as in gardens. The most commonly documented effects
of these species are lower phytoplankton productivity
and dissolved oxygen concentrations beneath mats
(Perna & Burrows, 2005). Other water quality effects
include higher sedimentation rates within the plant’s
complex root structure and higher evapotranspiration
rates from water hyacinth leaves when compared to
evaporation rates from open water (Gopal, 1987).
Dissolved oxygen levels can reach dangerously low
levels for fish when large water hyacinth mats prevent
light infiltration or when a relatively large area of plants
decompose at the same time.
30
The main known impacts of water hyacinth (Eichhornia crassipes) are:
 They form dense floating mats that cover large
areas of water surface - thus excluding light, and
air. This then affects animals (including fish) and
plants that live and grow below the water surface;
the area of a water hyacinth mat can double over
several days when conditions of water and
temperature are optimal;
 The floating water hyacinth mats can have serious
mechanical impacts on water supply systems,
drainage canals, inflows to hydropower turbines
and river flows;
 Water hyacinth increases evapotranspiration well
above that of open water (often over 3 times “open pan” evaporation) thus causing significant
water loss to dams, reservoirs and wild waters;
 The mats provide habitats for intermediate hosts of human diseases such as bilharzia-carrying
water snails and larvae and pupae of malaria-spreading mosquitoes;
Please see ANNEX 2 for a leaflet on the invasive plant.
The water lettuce (Pistia stratiotes) and the kariba weed aquatic fern (Salvinia molesta).
These two other floating species are present at different level on reservoirs, ponds and pools and also
in the canals.
Pictures of water lettuce in the vicinity of Constance sugar estate and Yemen
Salvinia molesta is a floating aquatic fern that thrives in slow-moving, nutrient-rich, warm, freshwater. A
rapidly growing competitive plant, it is dispersed long distances within a waterbody (via water currents)
and between waterbodies (via animals and contaminated equipment or vehicles). It is cultivated by
aquarium and pond owners and it is sometimes released by flooding, or by intentional dumping. S.
molesta can form dense vegetation mats that reduce water-flow and lower the light and oxygen levels in
the water. This stagnant dark environment negatively affects the biodiversity and abundance of
freshwater species, including fish and submerged aquatic plants. Salvinia invasions can alter wetland
ecosystems and cause wetland habitat loss. Salvinia invasions also pose a severe threat to socioeconomic activities dependent on open, flowing and/or high quality waterbodies, including hydro-
31
electricity generation and fishing. For more details on the general impacts of this species please
see general impacts of Salvinia molesta
P. stratiotes can inflict a severe impact on the environment and economy of infested areas. The dense
mats created by connected rosettes of the plant lead to the majority of problems encountered with
water lettuce. These mats can have a negative economic effect by blocking waterways, thus hindering
flood control efforts. Mats of P. stratiotes can also disrupt natural ecosystems. They can lead to a lower
concentration of oxygen in covered waters and sediments by blocking air-water interface and root
respiration. Extremely thick mats of P. stratiotes can prevent sunlight from reaching underlying water.
The cumulative effect of these negative characteristics of the plant is a loss of biodiversity in invaded
habitats. P. stratiotes mats can also serve as a breeding place for mosquitoes (web source: ISSG,
2015).
10.1.5.
Harvesting
Apart from the Aquaculture farms under the supervision of the Ministry of Fisheries (mainly Tilapia sp.
and Macrobrachium rosenbergii), there are numerous fishing activities in the basin all around Mauritius
at amateur fishing scale.
The greatest threat is the harvesting of the local shrimp (camaron) that occur at the end of the year as a
product of high value. The use of chemicals for fishing being the major concern, following several
investigations, it seems that the main product used is from the pyrethroid family, mainly Deltamethrin.
The product is extremely poisonous for fish and freshwater invertebrates and has a strong
bioaccumulation effect in aquatic organisms. A monitoring both in the water and in the aquatic
organisms would be required.
According to Keith and Vigneux (2000) the Macrobranchium hertimanus has declined drastically in La
Reunion and disappeared in Mauritius.
32
11. Legal Framework and Institutional
setup.
11.1.International Conventions
The Convention on Biological Diversity (CBD, 1992) is the main convention looking at freshwater
biodiversity whilst the Ramsar conventions lookis at the wetlands. The CBD has set up a specific
programme on” Inland Waters Biodiversity”. Mauritius has been a signatory to this convention since
1992.
The inland waters programme was adopted as a CBD thematic area at the IVth meeting of the
Conference of the Parties (COP. The Convention's inland waters programme promotes the ecosystem
approach, including integrated watershed management, as the best way to reconcile competing
demands for dwindling supplies of inland waters. The programme identifies the actions that Parties
need to carry out to halt the trend of biodiversity loss, including monitoring, assessment and evaluation
of biological diversity of inland water ecosystems, conducting environmental impact assessments of
water development projects, developing pollution prevention strategies, choosing and using appropriate
technology as well as ecosystem-based management (CBD).
The programme of work on the biological diversity of inland water ecosystems integrates with other
work programmes and cross-cutting issues; particularly as freshwater is the major link between many
different ecosystems and issues. It also promotes cooperation with other conventions and organizations
through Joint Work Plans, in particular the Ramsar Convention on Wetlands and the Convention on
Migratory Species (CBD).
The programme of work on biological diversity of inland water ecosystems integrates with other work
programmes and cross-cutting issues; particularly as freshwater is the major link between many
different ecosystems and issues. It also promotes cooperation with other conventions and organizations
through Joint Work Plans, in particular the Ramsar Convention on Wetlands and the Convention on
Migratory Species (CBD).
At its seventh meeting in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, the COP adopted a revised and elaborated
programme of work on the biological diversity of inland water ecosystems (decision VII/4).
The CBD has set up 3 main area of work with some goals:
PROGRAMME ELEMENT 1:
CONSERVATION, SUSTAINABLE USE AND BENEFIT-SHARING
Goal 1.1. To integrate the conservation and sustainable use of biological diversity into all
relevant sectors of water-resource and river-basin management, taking into account the
ecosystem approach.
Goal 1.2: To establish and maintain comprehensive, adequate and representative systems of
protected
inland
water
ecosystems
within
the
framework
of
integrated
catchment/watershed/river‑basin management.
33
Goal 1.3: To enhance the conservation status of inland water biological diversity through
rehabilitation and restoration of degraded ecosystems and the recovery of threatened species.
Goal 1.4: To prevent the introduction of invasive alien species, including exotic stocks that
potentially threaten the biological diversity of inland water ecosystems, and to control and,
where possible, eradicate established invasive species in these ecosystems.
PROGRAMME ELEMENT
ENVIRONMENT
2:
INSTITUTIONAL
AND
SOCIO-ECONOMIC
ENABLING
Goal 2.1: To promote the integration of conservation and sustainable use of the biological
diversity of inland water ecosystems into relevant sectoral and cross-sectoral plans,
programmes, policies and legislation.
Goal 2.2: To encourage the development, application and transfer of low-cost appropriate
technology, non-structural and innovative approaches to water resource management and the
conservation and sustainable use of the biological diversity of inland water ecosystems, taking
into account any decision taken by the Conference of the Parties at its seventh meeting on
technology transfer and cooperation.
Goal 2.3:
To provide the appropriate incentives and valuation measures to support the
conservation and sustainable use of inland water biological diversity, and to remove, or reform
appropriately, any perverse incentives opposing such conservation and sustainable use of
ecosystems, as it relates to biodiversity conservation.
Goal 2.4: To implement the programme of work for the Global Initiative on Communication,
Education and Public Awareness, giving particular attention to matters relating to the
conservation and sustainable use of the biological diversity of inland water ecosystems.
Goal 2.5: Promote the effective participation of indigenous and local communities and relevant
stakeholders in the conservation and sustainable use of biological diversity of inland water
ecosystems in accordance with national laws and applicable international obligations.
PROGRAMME ELEMENT 3: KNOWLEDGE, ASSESSMENT AND MONITORING
Goal 3.1: To develop an improved understanding of the biodiversity found in inland water
ecosystems, how these systems function, their ecosystem goods and services and the values
they can provide.
Goal 3.2: To develop, based on inventories, rapid and other assessments applied at the
regional, national and local levels, an improved understanding of threats to inland water
ecosystems and responses of different types of inland water ecosystems to these threats.
Goal 3.3.
To ensure projects and actions with the potential to impact negatively on the
biological diversity of inland water ecosystems are subjected, in accordance with national
legislation and where appropriate, to suitably rigorous impact assessments, including
consideration of their potential impact on sacred sites and on lands and waters traditionally
occupied or used by indigenous and local communities.
Goal 3.4. To introduce and maintain appropriate monitoring arrangements to detect changes in
the status and trends of inland water biodiversity.
34
11.2.The Ramsar convention.
This convention’s mission is “the conservation and wise use of all wetlands through local and national
actions and international cooperation, as a contribution towards achieving sustainable development
throughout the world”. Mauritius has been a signatory to this convention since 2001.
The Convention uses a broad definition of wetlands. It includes all lakes and rivers, underground
aquifers, swamps and marshes, wet grasslands, peat lands, oases, estuaries, deltas and tidal flats,
mangroves and other coastal areas, coral reefs, and all human-made sites such as fish ponds, rice
paddies, reservoirs and salt pans.
Under the “three pillars” of the Convention, the Contracting Parties commit to:
 work towards the wise use of all their wetlands;
 designate suitable wetlands for the list of Wetlands of International Importance (the “Ramsar
List”) and ensure their effective management;
 cooperate internationally on transboundary wetlands, shared wetland systems and shared
species.
For the purpose of this assessment, we were requested specifically not to consider the wetlands as
their management will come under the Wetlands Bill, and the freshwater biodiversity under the “THE
NATIVE TERRESTRIAL BIODIVERSITY AND NATIONAL PARKS BILL”. These were not available
during this assessment.
11.3.Regional convention
11.3.1.
The Nairobi Convention
The Nairobi Convention for the Protection, Management and Development of the Marine and Coastal
Environment of the Eastern African Region is one of 17 UNEP Regional Seas Conventions globally. It
was signed in 1985 and came into force in 1996. An amended version of the Convention was adopted
in March, 2010. Mauritius is signatory to the convention.
The convention supports an ecosystems approach to manage marine and coastal resources addresses
the interconnectedness between land-based activities, fresh water systems and coastal and marine
environments.
Article 7 of the convention looks at the pollution from land based sources and activities.
The convention has 2 Protocols that are linked to the freshwater biodiversity:
1/ Protocol for the Protection of the Marine and Coastal Environment of the Western Indian
Ocean from Land-Based Sources and Activities. (adopted 2010).
In the text of the Protocol, the geographical scope shall include the riparian and inland waters.
2/ Protocol Concerning Protected Areas and Wild Fauna and Flora in the Eastern African Region
(adopted 1996)
35
11.4.National framework
Responsible Institutions
The Ministry of Environment and National Development has overall responsibility for environmental
protection through a framework environmental law – the Environment Protection Act (2002) as
amended in 2008 – which provides for the coordination of environmental issues amongst the various
relevant sectors. The EPA puts in place a number of different institutional structures including an
Environment Coordination Committee, and an Integrated Coastal Zone Management Committee, to
reinforce coordination between different government agencies.
The National Parks and Conservation Service of the Ministry of Agro-Industry and Food Security is the
national focal point for the CBD, and is thus responsible for the implementation of CBD-related
activities. The National Parks and Conservation Service (NPCS) is the government department that
advises on all matters relating to conservation, and works to protect and conserve Mauritian
biodiversity. The NPCS was established on 9 May 1994 under Section 8 of the Wildlife & National
Parks Act 1993.
The national legal system comprises a series of acts and regulations mentioned below:
The Environment Protection Act (1999 and 2002)
This Act established the Ministry of Environment (MoE) as the body responsible for overall coordination
of environmental management. Under the EPA five ministries are assigned the role of enforcement for
implementation of environmental policies. The Act covers all aspects relating to EIA procedures. The
act includes standards for water, followed by the National Environment Laboratory. The act also
includes a coastal and maritime zone in its part VII, the definition of the coastal zone is restricted to
“any area which is situated within 1 kilometre or such other distance as may be prescribed from the
high watermark” it includes: any estuary or mouth of a river and that part of a river, stream or canal
which lies within 1 kilometre from the outermost point of its bank on the sea at high tide. The restriction
to 1km, limits the power of this legal tool, to make it more relevant it should be aligned on the
geographical scope of the Nairobi convention.
The Forest and Reserves Act (1983, amended 2003)
This is the principal legislation governing the management of forests resources and designates has the
power to declare national forests, nature reserves, mountain reserves, river reserves and road
reserves. Sixteen Nature Reserves have been selected (two of which now form part of the National
Park, and 4 are in Rodrigues) for the purpose of maintaining vegetation cover and for the provision of
ecosystem services. The Act provides protection for designated areas of state land but is inadequate to
safeguard against the loss of privately owned areas with rich biodiversity resources, as penalties are
too weak to be an adequate deterrent.
The Wildlife and National Parks Act (1993)
This is the principal legislation for the protection of flora and fauna, with the Wildlife Regulations of 1998
giving effect to the CITES Convention in Mauritian law. In 1996, the National Parks and Reserves
Regulations were made under the Act, laying down rules regarding activities on reserved land. The Act
and its regulations are currently being revised to make them fully compliant with the provisions of
CITES. The opportunity is also being taken to increase the legal protection of native biodiversity at
national level. There is a section (25) for the protection of camaron and shrimps, but without specific
enforcement.
36
The Central water Authority (CWA) Act (1970 amended 2005)
The Principal Act defines the duties of the CWA as being responsible for the control, development and
conservation of Water Resources and the Treatment and Distribution of water for domestic, industrial
and commercial purposes throughout Mauritius. Since the Water Resources Unit has taken over the
responsibility of water resources administration, the CWA is now mainly responsible for the treatment
and distribution of potable water for domestic, commercial and industrial usage. The CWA operates
under the aegis of the Ministry of Energy and Public Utilities.
Rivers and Canal Act (1863)
This act provides for the management of rivers and canal as well as for the protection of river water
against pollution.
The Waste Water Management Authority Act (2000 amended 2004)
This act provide for the disposal of waste water and effluent through the public sewer, the levying of
waste water fees from ground water users and the issuing of waivers of fees and surcharge on waste
water claims.
Plant Protection Act 2006
The Plant Protection Act 2006 is designed to prevent and control the introduction and spread of plant
pests and to establish phytosanitary measures in conformity with international standards (IPPC). It
is also designed to protect endangered areas and designate, maintain, and survey pest free areas
and areas of low pest prevalence. It is relevant to the riparian areas, or marshalnds.The National Plant
Protection Office (NPPO) within the Ministry of Agro Industries, Food Production and Security is
charged with administering the Act.
The Fisheries and marine resources Act 2007
This Act although mainly focusing on the marine resources, regulates the fish farming (including basins
and ponds) in its part III and the importation of live fish under its section 22. This is an important aspect
as its links to the aquarium trade and possible invasive species.
The law requires the Permanent Secretary (PS) to keep any fish under observation and control for such
periods as he thinks fit, and that an EIS be prepared. The importer must submit a report to the
Permanent Secretary that the release of live fish “shall not be detrimental to the environment.” .
This process is biased and should be reviewed. A very cautious approach to live release of any
additional non-native species should be taken, as the effects of invasive species are already strongly
impacting the freshwater biodiversity.
There is a National Invasive Alien Species Committee (NIASC), but this committee is only advisory, so
is the National Ramsar Advisory Committee (NRAC). These Committees, composed of competent
technical staff, does or do not have teeth, as advisory, discretionary decision is usually taken on
political grounds.
Mauritius has a well-developed series of laws and Authorities for the management of the water
resource, for looking at water quality, quantity and allocation; habitat conservation through the
establishment of reserves and national parks; and conservation of plants and animals. No single law is
designed to fully protect the living matter in an ecosystem approach in the water systems.
37
This gap is planned to be filled through the Bills in preparation at the Ministry of Agro industry and Food
Security level, but could also be supported by the “THE ENVIRONMENTALLY SENSITIVE AREAS
CONSERVATION AND MANAGEMENT Bill”.
It is also clear that the ICZM “zone definition” should be extended in order to cover the river basins and
adopt an ecosystem approach.
The Institutional set up.
The main entities that have responsibilities in the management of freshwater biodiversity are:
Ministry of Environment, Sustainable Development, and Disaster and Beach Management.
(Setting up standard for water quality, Coastal zone management)
Ministry of Ocean Economy, Marine Resources, Fisheries, Shipping and Outer Island
(Giving aquaculture permits, permits for import of live fish and crustaceans)
Ministry of Energy and Public Utilities
(Managing the water resources and water rights)
Ministry of Agro Industry and Food Security
(Technical ministry for the terrestrial Biodiversity management (NPCS), also host the irrigation Authority
(IA) and the Food and Agricultural Research and Extension Institute (FAREI))
Table summing up the areas of responsibilities for each portfolio in regards to freshwater
biodiversity.
38
To date there is no institution with the mandate to overview and coordinate the management of the
freshwater biodiversity. There is also a lack of technical capacity in that regard. This needs to be
addressed in a practical and pragmatic way.
During the round table, the idea to have the Ministry of Environment to oversee the global picture was
put forward and agreed upon.
The proposal is as follows:
39
12. Conservation status and
recommendations
12.1.Red list status
Conservation and management of freshwater biodiversity and the water resources are major concerns
in Mauritius, a unique diverse genetic heritage. In the IUCN red list of threatened species there are for
Mauritius 152 sp. that have been assessed, out of which 20 are from Rodrigues. 4 are extinct (birds and
ducks) and one is critically endangered the Coenagriocnemis insulare, a species of damselfly in the
Coenagrionida family which is endemic to Mauritius. Its natural habitats are subtropical or tropical moist
lowland forests and rivers. It is threatened mainly by habitat loss.
4 species are classified as endangered (EN)

Africanogyrus rodriguezensis , Status: Endangered B1+2abcd ver 2.3 - needs updating

Coenagriocnemis rufipes, Status: Endangered B1ab(iii,iv)+2ab(iii,iv) ver 3.1 Pop. trend:
unknown

Macrobrachium hirtimanus, Status: Endangered B1ab(v) ver 3.1, Pop. trend: decreasing

Thalassothemis marchali, Status: Endangered B1ab(i,ii,iii)+2ab(i,ii,iii) ver 3.1, Pop. trend:
decreasing
One species is Vulnerable (VU) in Rodrigues Gynacantha bispina
Near threatened (NT)

Bulinus cernicus ( Status: Lower Risk/near threatened ver 2.3 ) (needs updating)

Caridina mauritii ( Status: Near Threatened ver 3.1 ) Pop. trend: unknown

Caridina richtersi (Status: Near Threatened ver 3.1 ), Pop. trend: unknown

Caridina spathulirostris , Status: Near Threatened ver 3.1 , Pop. trend: unknown

Numenius arquata (Eurasian Curlew) , Status: Near Threatened ver 3.1 , Pop. trend: decreasing
DATA DEFICIENT (3)

Argiocnemis solitaria (Status: Data Deficient ver 3.1 , Pop. trend: unknown

Cotylopus acutipinnis (Cabot Bouche Ronde) , Status: Data Deficient ver 3.1 , Pop. trend:
unknown

Megalops cyprinoides (Indo-Pacific Tarpon) , Status: Data Deficient ver 3.1 , Pop. trend:
unknown
40
The other 134 are least concerned, but data are old, and are classified in the need updating
criteria. Over, the IUCN red listing process is highlights the data deficiency on the fresh water
biodiversity of Mauritius and a complete reassessment would be needed.
Further work has been done by the Mauritius Wildlife Foundation on aquatic plants, but as can be seen
below , the majority of them are Data Deficient (DD).
Species
Family
Status
Lemna
perpusilla
Lemnaceae
Cryptogeni
c
Utricularia gibba
Lentibulariceae
DD
Mare Ory, Mare
Longues(1993),
Bassin des AigrettesBRG(1993), Perrier,
RiviereTamarin(1941
), Midland(1973),
Cascade des
Aigrettes(198), Petrin
Utricularia
stellaris
Lentibulariceae
DD
Grand Bassin, Mare
aux Vacoas, Riviere
Moka
Spirodela
punctata
Araceae
Halophila ovalis
Hydrocharitaceae
Halophila
stipulacea
Hydrilla
verticillata
Hypoxis
angustifolia
Juncus effusus
Hydrocharitaceae
Najas australis
Najadaceae
Invasive
species
Najas marina
Najadaceae
Invasive
species
Trou aux Cerfs,
Gouly pere,
Anse Jonchee,
Grand Baie,
Cluny, La
Ferme,
Cascavelle,Cote
d'Or ,
Subpopulation(7)
,
Threat
Golden
Snail,
Invasive
species,
Irrigation
Criteria
Note from flora
LC
Hydrocharitaceae
Cryptogeni
c
Cryptogeni
c
DD
Hypoxidaceae
DD
Juncaceae
Cryptogeni
c
DD
DD
Constance
S.E(1975), Rivierede
Moka(1888),
Flacq(1941)
Bassin Requin, Poste
de Flacq(1947)
41
Potamogeton
chamissoi
Potamogetonacea
e
DD
Beau Bassin, Moka,
Riviere Tamarin,
Riviere Papaye,
Constance S.E,
Potamogeton
pectinatus
Potamogetonacea
e
DD
Potamogeton
thunbergii
Potamogetonacea
e
DD
Rose Hill(1940), La
Ferme, Riviere
Papaye
Ruissance Beau
Songe(1849)
Halodule
uninervis
Halodule
wrightii
Syrinodium
isoetifolium
Thalassodendro
n ciliatum
Eriocaulon
willdenovianum
Zannichelliaceae
DD
Zannichelliaceae
DD
Zannichelliaceae
DD
Zannichelliaceae
DD
Eriocaulon
johnstonii
Eriocaulaceae
Eriocaulaceae
Petrin, Plaine
Champagne,
Cocotte, Grand
Bassin, Gouly
Pere, Sans
Souci, Mont
Vert, Perrier,
Mare aux
Vacoas.
Subpopulation(3)
, Total
population
>10,000
Invasive
species,
deer
ranching
, habitat
decline
NT
marshy areas &
riversides (Petrin,
Mare aux Vacoas,
Grand Bassin, Mt
Cocotte, Alexandra
falls
EX?
12.2.Recommendations
From the results of the literature review, the review of the legal and institutional setup and the outputs of
the round table here are the major recommendations.
12.2.1.
Knowledge
There are obsolete data or data deficiency on the all range of freshwater biodiversity, the fact
that the management of the water was also subdivided did not help this process. Each organisation is
looking at its main concern, but the holistic approach is missing. There is no integrated approach, apart
from an engineering point of view; there is no consideration for the ecosystem functions or
services. The round table has set for priority to fill the knowledge gap in order to make
intelligent decisions and support an integrated approach.
42
12.2.2.
Legislation and enforcement
There are two Bills being prepared under the NPCS, which integrate the freshwater biodiversity, the
wetlands bill and the native terrestrial biodiversity and National Parks Bill. At the Ministry of
Environment level there is also the environmentally sensitive Areas Conservation and Management Bill,
which looks also after wetlands areas. There is a need for a more coordinated inter-ministerial
approach from an ecosystem point of view. One of the round table outcomes was the need to
examine all the environment laws in order to prepare a better harmonised system of laws.
The other strong recommendation would be a move toward integrated river basin management
(linked to ICZM) to get away from the compartmented approach, and effect a transition towards a
holistic ecosystem approach. This induces a change in the definition of the Mauritian ICZM
definition (1km from the high water mark) to the full river basin. This definition will therefore be
aligned on the Nairobi Convention.
An alternative would be the Ridge to Reef approach that can have continuity in the system of protected
areas? (see below).
There is a very low technical capacity in regard to freshwater biodiversity and enforcement power. This
component by itself would require cooperation and capacity building that could go along or accompany
a comprehensive assessment. A new Freshwater Biodiversity Unit (FBU) would need to be created
in that regard and this would need to be assessed properly.
The Ridge to Reef (R2R) Approach
The Ridge to Reef (R2R) approach for managing river basins and coastal areas concept, builds on the
principles of well-established paradigms such as IWRM with the clear objective of demonstrating visible
and measurable success in water resources management. A working definition of the R2R approach,
which may be subject to further technical review, is: ‘An outcome-driven process which promotes the
management of river basins and coastal areas as a continuum of interconnected ecosystems
characterized by multiple spatial, temporal, governance, and institutional needs which must be
addressed in an integrated manner in order to achieve socio-cultural, economic and environmental
sustainability’.
The R2R approach provides numerous opportunities for ‘ridge to reef transects’ to be geographically
defined, declared and managed either as R2R protected areas, Specially Managed Areas, Special
Development Areas or R2R Corridors. These declarations fit well within existing legal and governance
frameworks and do not require a new legal framework to be able to adopt the R2R approach.
Depending on certain spatial and ecological characteristics, watersheds and their associated marine
areas within a basin may constitute a R2R specially managed area in which particular processes and
natural resource user relationships are managed at the watershed scale, thus making the best use of
the local level institutional capacity and governance arrangements available at that level (watershed
level or local government level).
The R2R approach must embrace the fact that successful water resources management requires a
decentralization of authority to the lowest appropriate level. This is crucial for local communities to take
ownership of the processes and provide the robustness needed to upscale to higher levels and
eventually up to the river basin level. Governance arrangements at the local level are only viable with
decisive decentralization of authority. For the R2R approach to be effective and evolve through all its
steps until integrated resources management is achieved as the ultimate outcome, the process and its
outcomes must be measurable.
43
12.2.3.
Pollution reduction: support the bio certification, training for
farmers (washing equipment in rivers).
There is an existing scheme in place by FAREI, which would need to be further monitored on the water
quality and ecosystem changes. This component is also supported by the Mauritius Chamber of
Agriculture move toward sustainable agriculture. A stronger leadership would help this process both at
production level and at consumer’s level.
At the round table there was reference to high load of fertilisers and pesticide used for the production of
water cress (cresson) and its potential impact on the biodiversity. The watercress chain would need
to be verified and monitored accordingly.
12.2.4.
Management of Invasive species
Some of the major floating invasive species can easily be controlled mechanically; chemically or
through bio control agents (Salvinia molesta, Eichhornia crassipes, Pistia stratiotes). Mechanical control
is expensive, detrimental to biodiversity and can last forever; Chemical control is detrimental to health
and biodiversity. The only sustainable option remains bio control, a technique well known in the
Mauritian agricultural sector and that has been well tested and proven to be effective in numerous
countries. In any case, a proper assessment would be needed as regards the major threats? prior to
taking proper action.
As regards the invasion of the rivers and of the riparian zones that are heavily infested, it has
been suggested in the Round Table to add a component to the rapid assessment exercise so as
to look closely at this matter in order to formulate adequate recommendations.
12.2.5.
Raising awareness
Different themes are covered in the curriculum of various courses, but often they remain abstracts to
those not living close to a water flow. The isolation of the learning process would need linkages to
reality. One must understand that keeping the water flow in healthy conditions has benefits for our
health and ecosystem wellbeing.
Recommendations made at the Round Table are to link schools and communities to their ecosystems.
A recommendation to the MIE curriculum team would be to include a “river project” in the curriculum
while using the different formal teaching tools (a case study from the project “adopt a river” in
Seychelles could be done. A similar work would strongly be needed at local community level .
The discussions also highlighted the gap in the collection of large solid waste that are often thrown into
rivers, canals etc. Solutions should be provided in that regard to avoid this durable bad habit.
12.2.6.
Freshwater Key Biodiversity Areas (KBAs)
The freshwater KBAs could be a good tool to put in place with support from CEPF and this Biodiversity
project for example. Identification of KBAs provides fundamental information to inform a wide range of
decision-making contexts and end users by, for example:
44

Informing the selection of sites for protection under national and international legislation.

Implementing and monitoring global biodiversity targets in multi-lateral environmental
agreements (e.g. Aichi Target 11 of the Convention on Biological Diversity).

Supporting private and financial sectors to manage their environmental risks related to
biodiversity impact.

Guiding conservation investments by donors (e.g. Critical Ecosystem Partnership Fund, Global
Environment Facility).

Strengthening conservation action on the ground by local or international Non-Governmental
Organizations.
45
13. Relevant data or database
FISHBASE
http://www.fishbase.org/
Freshwater Eco region of the world
http://www.feow.org/
Global Invasive Species Database (GISD) from ISSG.
http://www.issg.org/database/species/search.asp?sts=sss&st=sss&fr=1&x=22&y=9&sn=&rn=mauritius&
hci=24&ei=-1&lang=EN
Freshwater biodiversity data portal
http://data.freshwaterbiodiversity.eu/
The IUCN red list
http://www.iucnredlist.org/
Aquatic commons (http://aquaticcommons.org/)
The Aquatic Commons is a thematic digital repository covering the natural marine, estuarine /brackish
and fresh water environments. It includes all aspects of the science, technology, management and
conservation of these environments, their organisms and resources, and the economic, sociological
and legal aspects. It is complementary to OceanDocs, which is supported by the Intergovernmental
Oceanographic Commission (IOC)/ International Oceanographic Data and Information Exchange
(IODE) specifically to collect, preserve and facilitate access to all research output from members of their
Ocean Data and Information Networks (ODINS).
All the relevant data and reference for this precise work are under:
https://www.dropbox.com/s/x6sifcr8l7b8p94/Freshwater%20Biodiversity%20oct%202015.docx?dl=0
46
14. Round table on freshwater biodiversity
A Round Table on freshwater biodiversity was organised by the NPCS and facilitated by COI. It took
place on the 15th October 2015 and had for major output some recommendations that led to an Action
Plan. The detailed notes of meeting are in ANNEX 3, the Action Plan is in the following section.
47
15. Action plan
Following the round table there are 2 action plans that are presented here, a general one looking at the
different aspects needed with short term, medium term and long term actions (We will call it here the
(A) Mauritius and Rodrigues Freshwater Biodiversity Action Plan 2015-2020, and a second more
immediate short term action plan where the COI Biodiversity project can support financially and
technically that we will call here (B) Mauritius and Rodrigues Freshwater Biodiversity Immediate
Action to help bridge the gaps (2015-2017).
The immediate Action plan as
per the round table set an
initial priority to have as soon
as
possible
a
rapid
assessment survey of the
fauna
and
the
flora
biodiversity in Mauritius and
Rodrigues. This study will
include biological indicators
that will help further long
term monitoring; it will
identify
the
principal
environmental services or
ecosystem services and will
include a study on the
invasive species priorities
and feasible sustainable
management options. All this
information will support and
help to draft a cabinet brief.
In parallel, there was a decision to include in the Mauritius water outlook a component on the biological
indicators and the need to harmonise the legal tools.
48
49
16. Stakeholders list
Name
Profession
Organisatio
n
Telephone
Mobile
Email Id
54297414
[email protected]
Kersley Bruno
Pynee
Senior
Technical
Assistant
The Mauritius
Herbarium
Ministry of
4541061
Agro Industry
& Food
Security
Diksa Tacouri
Technical
Officer
SSR Botanic
Garden
2439401
59244602
[email protected]
Vijay Mangar
Scientific
Officer
Ministry of
Ocean
Economy,
Marine
Resources,
Fisheries,
Shipping &
Outer Island
2384100
59314757
[email protected]
Vinesh Souraj
Gopal
Scientific
Officer
National
Parks &
Conservation
Service
4644053
52511981
[email protected]
Jacqueline
Sauzier
General
Secretary
Mauritius
chamber of
Agriculture
2113031
52577123
[email protected]
.mu
khooshal
Prakash
Ramdhun
Irrigation
operation
officer
Irrigation
Authority
2106596
57903560
[email protected]
Aisha Yasmeen
Ibrahim
Technical
Officer
Central
Water
Authority
6015000
Moolee Paul
Senior Park
Ranger
National
Parks &
Conservation
Service
Jean Richard
Payendee
Commissione
Rodrigues
r for
Regional
Environment
Assembly
& others
Christine
Griffiths
Project
Manager
Mahandra
Gobin
Park Ranger
[email protected]
52580056
[email protected]
58758481
[email protected]
Bioculture
Group/Ebony
Forest Ltd
59300855
[email protected]
NPCS
59149637
[email protected]
8321529
50
Nasreen
Khadun
Scientific
Officer
National
Environment
al laboratory
4661080
57966415
[email protected]
Devisha
Ittoosingh
Hydrological
officer
Water
Resources
unit
4035400
57690375
[email protected]
Houshna Bannu Scientific
Naujeer
Officer
NPCS
4644053
52511984
[email protected]
Jean François
Pellegrin
Project
Assistant
UNDP, PAN
Project
57187871
jean.francois.pellegrin@undp.
org
zayd Jhumka
Assistant
Condervator
of Forests
Forestry
Service
6707254
52542090
[email protected]
Vickram
Bissonauth
Research
Officer
Mauritius
Research
Council
4651235
59453705
[email protected]
Vikash Tatayah
Conservation
Director
Mauritian
Wildlife
Foundation
6976117
52506970
[email protected]
Drona
Bissoonauthsin
g
zoologist
6963171
59127399
[email protected]
2882423
57661565
daksh.beeharry.panray@gmail
.com
52569740
[email protected]
Project
Daksh Beeharry
Manager Panray
NBSAP
NPCS/UNDP
Vishnu Bachraz
deputy
Diector
Didier
Slachmuylders
chef de projet Biodiversité
59439420
[email protected]
Said Ahamada
Marine
Biodiversity
and ICZN
Biodiversité
59439425
[email protected]
Chantal
Andrianarivo
Biodiversité
Terrestre
COI Biodiversité
59439426
chantal.nicole.andrianarivo@c
oi-ioc.org
Olivier Tyack
Consultant
57425189
[email protected]
NPCS
51
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55
ANNEX 1 – Fishbase data of freshwater
fish for Mauritius and Rodrigues
Order
Family
Species
Occurrence
FishBase name
Perciformes
Centrarchidae
Micropterus salmoides
introduced
Largemouth black
bass
Perciformes
Ambassidae
Ambassis ambassis
native
Commerson's glassy
Anguilliformes
Anguillidae
Anguilla bicolor
native
Indonesian shortfin eel
Anguilliformes
Anguillidae
Anguilla mossambica
native
African longfin eel
Anguilliformes
Anguillidae
Anguilla marmorata
native
Giant mottled eel
Anguilliformes
Moringuidae
Moringua microchir
native
Lesser thrush eel
Perciformes
Eleotridae
Eleotris mauritiana
native
Widehead sleeper
Perciformes
Gobiidae
Stenogobius polyzona
native
Chinestripe goby
Perciformes
Eleotridae
Hypseleotris cyprinoides
native
Tropical carp-gudgeon
Cypriniformes
Cyprinidae
Carassius auratus
introduced
Goldfish
Perciformes
Kuhliidae
Kuhlia rupestris
native
Rock flagtail
Perciformes
Kuhliidae
Kuhlia caudavittata
native
Perciformes
Eleotridae
Eleotris fusca
native
Dusky sleeper
Perciformes
Gobiidae
Redigobius bikolanus
native
Speckled goby
Perciformes
Gobiidae
Glossogobius kokius
native
Perciformes
Osphronemidae Osphronemus goramy
introduced
Giant gourami
Perciformes
Kuhliidae
native
Barred flagtail
Perciformes
Monodactylidae Monodactylus argenteus
native
Silver moony
Perciformes
Gobiidae
Awaous commersoni
native
Perciformes
Ambassidae
Ambassis gymnocephalus
native
Bald glassy
Mugiliformes
Mugilidae
Moolgarda seheli
native
Bluespot mullet
Mugiliformes
Mugilidae
Mugil cephalus
native
Flathead grey mullet
Perciformes
Gobiidae
Sicyopterus lagocephalus
native
Red-tailed goby
Perciformes
Cichlidae
Oreochromis niloticus
introduced
Nile tilapia
Perciformes
Gobiidae
Awaous pallidus
endemic
Cypriniformes
Cyprinidae
Catla catla
introduced
Kuhlia mugil
Catla
56
Cypriniformes
Cyprinidae
Cirrhinus cirrhosus
introduced
Mrigal carp
Cypriniformes
Cyprinidae
Ctenopharyngodon idella
introduced
Grass carp
Cypriniformes
Cyprinidae
Cyprinus carpio
introduced
Common carp
Cypriniformes
Cyprinidae
Hypophthalmichthys molitrix
introduced
Silver carp
Cypriniformes
Cyprinidae
Labeo rohita
introduced
Roho labeo
Cyprinodontiformes Poeciliidae
Gambusia affinis
introduced
Mosquitofish
Cyprinodontiformes Poeciliidae
Gambusia holbrooki
introduced
Eastern mosquitofish
Cyprinodontiformes Poeciliidae
Poecilia reticulata
introduced
Guppy
Cyprinodontiformes Poeciliidae
Xiphophorus hellerii
introduced
Green swordtail
Cyprinodontiformes Poeciliidae
Xiphophorus maculatus
introduced
Southern platyfish
Perciformes
Channidae
Channa striata
introduced
Striped snakehead
Perciformes
Centrarchidae
Lepomis cyanellus
introduced
Green sunfish
Perciformes
Centrarchidae
Lepomis macrochirus
introduced
Bluegill
Perciformes
Centrarchidae
Micropterus dolomieu
introduced
Smallmouth bass
Perciformes
Cichlidae
Oreochromis macrochir
introduced
Longfin tilapia
Perciformes
Cichlidae
Tilapia rendalli
introduced
Redbreast tilapia
Perciformes
Cichlidae
Tilapia zillii
introduced
Redbelly tilapia
Anguilliformes
Anguillidae
Anguilla labiata
native
African mottled eel
Anguilliformes
Ophichthidae
Pisodonophis cancrivorus
native
Longfin snake-eel
Mugiliformes
Mugilidae
Agonostomus telfairii
native
Fairy mullet
Mugiliformes
Mugilidae
Chelon macrolepis
native
Largescale mullet
Perciformes
Ambassidae
Ambassis dussumieri
native
Malabar glassy
perchlet
Perciformes
Ambassidae
Ambassis natalensis
native
Slender glassy
Perciformes
Gobiidae
Awaous nigripinnis
native
Perciformes
Gobiidae
Cotylopus acutipinnis
native
Perciformes
Apogonidae
Fibramia lateralis
native
Perciformes
Gobiidae
Gobius hypselosoma
native
Perciformes
Terapontidae
Terapon jarbua
native
Jarbua terapon
Syngnathiformes
Syngnathidae
Microphis argulus
native
Flat-nosed pipepfish
Syngnathiformes
Syngnathidae
Microphis brachyurus
native
Short-tailed pipefish
Syngnathiformes
Syngnathidae
Microphis millepunctatus
native
Shorttail pipefish
Humpback cardinal
57
RODRIGUES
Order
Family
Species
Occurrence
FishBase name
Anguilliformes
Anguillidae
Anguilla bicolor
native
Indonesian shortfin eel
Cyprinodontiformes Poeciliidae
Gambusia affinis
introduced
Mosquitofish
Cyprinodontiformes Poeciliidae
Gambusia holbrooki
introduced
Eastern mosquitofish
Gonorynchiformes
Chanidae
Chanos chanos
native
Milkfish
Mugiliformes
Mugilidae
Chelon macrolepis
native
Largescale mullet
Mugiliformes
Mugilidae
Mugil cephalus
native
Flathead grey mullet
Perciformes
Eleotridae
Eleotris fusca
native
Dusky sleeper
Perciformes
Eleotridae
Eleotris mauritiana
native
Widehead sleeper
Perciformes
Kuhliidae
Kuhlia caudavittata
native
Perciformes
Kuhliidae
Kuhlia mugil
native
Barred flagtail
Perciformes
Kuhliidae
Kuhlia rupestris
questionable
Rock flagtail
Perciformes
Gobiidae
Mugilogobius mertoni
native
Chequered mangrove
goby
Please see also below data extracted from Keith et al (2006). The freshwater fish and
crustaceans of Mauritius and Rodrigues
MAURICE
RODRIGUES
Anguillidae
Anguilla bengalensis
X
Anguilla bicolor
Endemic Western Indian Ocean
X
Anguilla mossambica
Endemic Western Indian Ocean
X
Anguilla marmorata
X
X
disparu
Moringuidae
Moringua microchir
X
Cyprinidae
Carassius auratus
Introduit
X
Cyprinus carpio
Introduit
X
Gambusia affinis
Introduit
X
X
Poecilia reticulata
Introduit
X
X
Xiphophorus hellerii
Introduit
X
Poeciliidae
58
Xiphophorus maculatus
Introduit
X
Syngnathidae
Microphis argulus
X
Microphis brachyurus
X
Mugilidae
Agonostomus telfairii
Endemic Western Indian Ocean
Chelon macrolepis
Mugil cephalus
X
Valamugil robustus
X
Valamugil seheli
X
X
Kuhlia mugil
X
X
Kuhlia rupestris
X
disparu
Endemic Western Indian Ocean
X
X
Introduit
X
Introduit
X
Introduit
X
Ambassidae
Ambassis ambassis
Khuliidae
Kuhlia caudavittata
Centrarchidae
Micropterus salmoides
Cichlidae
Oreochromis niloticus
Osphronemidae
Osphronemus goramy
Oleotridaae
Eleotris fusca
Eleotris mauritiana
X
Endemic Western Indian Ocean
X
disparu
Awaous commersoni
Endemic Western Indian Ocean
X
X
Cotylopus acutipinnis
endemic Reunion-Mauritius
X
Glossogobius kokius
endemic Reunion-Mauritius
X
Gobiidae
Redigobius bikolanus
X
Sicyopterus lagocephalus
X
Stenogobius polyzana
Endemic Western Indian Ocean
X
59
CRUSTACEAN
Atyyidae
Atoyoida serrata
Endemic Western Indian Ocean
Caridina longirostris
X
X
Caridina Mauritii
Endemic Mauritius
X
Caridina richtersi
Endemic Mauritius
X
Caridina serratirostris
Caridina spathulirostris
X
Endemic Mauritius
Caridina typus
X
X
disparu
Palaemonidae
Macrobrachium australe
Macrobrachium hirtimanus
X
endemic Reunion-Mauritius
Macrobrachium lar
Macrobracchium lepidactylus
Palaemon concinnus
disparu?
X
Endemic Western Indian Ocean
X
X
Palaemon debilis
X
N. fish
31
10 (4 disp)
N. Crustacean
11 (1 disp)
1 (3 disp)
N. total sp.
42 (1 disp)
11(7 disp)
N. total sp. Indigenous
33(1 disp)
9 (7disp)
60
ANNEX 2 : Water Hyacinth
61
62
ANNEX 3: list of Coleopetra sp. in
Mauritius and Rodrigues with associate
entomofauna references
Family Nepidae
Laccotrephes annulipes (Laporte de Castelnau, 1833)
Ranatra grandocula grandocula Bergroth, 1893
Family Notonectidae
Anisops mauricensis Poisson 1945 (endemic)
Anisops vitrea Signoret 1861
Anisops ciliata Stal, 1863
Anisops pelluscens grandis Poisson
Anisops varia Fiebrig, 1851
Enithares concolor
Enithares milloti Poisson
Family Ochteridae
Ochterus stysi Polhemus & Polhemus, 2008
Family GERRIDAE
Subfamily Halobatinae
Halobates tethys Herring, 1961
Subfamily Gerrinae
Limnogonus cereiventris (Signoret, 1862)
Family HERMATOBATIDAE
Hermatobates djiboutensis Coutiere & Martin, 1901
Rodrigues
Family CORIXIDAE
Subfamily Micronectinae
Micronecta dubia China, 1924
63
Micronecta felix (Butler, 1876)
Micronecta praetermissa Poisson, 1938
Family GERRIDAE
Limnogonus cereiventris (Signoret, 1862)
Family SALDIDAE
Saldula subcarinata (China, 1924)
Family VELIIDAE
Rhagovelia infernalis Butler, 1876
Family HYDROMETRIDAE
Hydrometra aegyptia Hungerford & Evans, 1934: Mamet 1957
Hydrometra mameti Hungerford 1951: 109
References entomofaune
Hungerford, H. B. 1951: A new Hydrometra from Mauritius. – Journal of the Kansas Entomological
Society 24, 3:
Mamet, J. R. 1957: A revised and annotated list of the Hemiptera (Heteroptera and Homoptera,
excluding Sternorhyncha) of Mauritius. – Mauritius Institute Bulletin 5, 2: 31 – 81. 1. 8. 1957
Mamet, J. R. & Webb-Gebert, F. 1980: Insects and other arthropoda of medical interest in Mauritius. –
Mauritius Institute Bulletin 9, 1: 53 – 73.
Orian, A. J. E. 1956: Hemiptera (Heteroptera and Homoptera excluding Sternorhyncha) of Mauritius. –
Annals and Magazine of Natural History, 12. series, 9, ??: 641 – 659.
Polhemus, D. A. & Polhemus J. T. 2008: A new Indian Ocean species of Ochterus from the island of
Mauritius (Hemiptera): Heteroptera: Ochteridae). – Acta Entomologica Musei Nationalis Pragae 48, 2:
281 – 288.
China, W. E. 1924: The Hemiptera-Heteroptera of Rodriguez, together with the description of a new
species of Cicada from that island. – Annals and Magazine of Natural History, 9. series, 14, 82: 427 –
453.
Drake, C. J. & Hoberlandt 1951: Catalogue of genera and species of Saldidae (Hemiptera). – Acta
Entomnologica Musei Nationalis Pragae 26, 376: 1 – 12.
Polhemus, J. T. & Polhemus, D. A. 1991: A revision of the Leptopodomorpha (Heteroptera) of
Madagascar and nearby Indian Ocean Islands. – Journal of the New York Entomological Society 99, 3:
496 – 526.
Schuh, R. T., Gallil, B. & Polhemus, J. T. 1987: Catalog and Bibliography of Leptopodomorpha
(Heteroptera). – Bulletin of the American Museum of Natural History 185, 3: 243 – 406.References
64
Butler, A. T. 1876: Preliminary Notice of new Species of Orthoptera and Hemiptera collected in the
Island of Rodriguez by Naturalists accompanying the Transit-of-Venus Expedition. – Annals and
Magazine of Natural History, fourth series, 17, 101: 409 – 412.
Butler, A. G. 1879: Zoology. Orthoptera and Hemiptera. – Philosophical Transactions of the Royal
Society of London 168: 545 – 553, pl. 54.
China, W. E. 1924: The Hemiptera-Heteroptera of Rodriguez, together with the description of a new
species of Cicada from that island. – Annals and Magazine of Natural History, 9. series, 14, 82: 427 –
453.
Kirkaldy, G.-W. 1899: Missions de M. Ch. Alluaud aux Iles de la Région Malgache. Hémiptères
(Gerridae, Corixidae, Notonectidae). – Annales de la Société Entomologique de France 68: 101 – 109.
Lundblad, O. 1936: Die altweltlichen Arten der Veliidengattungen Rhagovelia und Tetraripis. –Arkiv for
Zoologi 28A, 4 (21): 1 – 63.
Kirkaldy 1901 Entomologist 34: 310
Poisson, H. 1957: Les Hydrocorises de l’Ile de la Reunion. – Mémopires de l’Institut Scientifique de
Madagascar, Série E, Entomologie, 8: 389 – 398.
Butler, A. T. 1876: Preliminary Notice of new Species of Orthoptera and Hemiptera collected in the
Island of Rodriguez by Naturalists accompanying the Transit-of-Venus Expedition. – Annals and
Magazine of Natural History, fourth series, 17, 101: 409 – 412.
Butler, A. G. 1879: Zoology. Orthoptera and Hemiptera. – Philosophical Transactions of the Royal
Society of London 168: 545 – 553, pl. 54.
China, W. E. 1924: The Hemiptera-Heteroptera of Rodriguez, together with the description of a new
species of Cicada from that Island. – Annals and Magazine of Natural History, 9. series, 14, 82: 427 –
453.
Kirkaldy, G.-W. 1899: Missions de M. Ch. Alluaud aux Iles de la Région Malgache. Hémiptères
(Gerridae, Corixidae, Notonectidae). – Annales de la Société Entomologique de France 68: 101 – 109.
Polhemus, D. A. 1990: The Heteroptera of Aldabra Atoll and nearby islands, western Indian Ocean,
Part 1. Marine Heteroptera (Insecta): Gerridae, Veliidae, Hermatobatidae, Saldidae and Omaniidae,
with notes on ecology and insular zoogeography. – Atoll Research Bulletin 335: 1 – 16.
Polhemus, D. A. 1993: The Heteroptera of Aldabra Atoll and nearby islands, western Indian Ocean,
Part 2. Freshwater Heteroptera (Insecta): Corixidae, Notonectidae, Veliidae, Gerridae and
Mesoveliidae. – Atoll Research Bulletin 381: 1 – 9.
Andersen, N. M. 1975: The Limnogonus and Neogerris of the Old World. – Entomologica Scandinavica
Supplementum 7: 96 pp.
Andersen, N. M. 1995: Cladistical, historical biogeography, and a check list of gerrine water striders
(Hemiptera, Gerridae) of the World. – Steenstrupia 21, 2: 93 – 123.
China, W. E. 1924: The Hemiptera-Heteroptera of Rodriguez, together with the description of a new
species of Cicada from that Island. – Annals and Magazine of Natural History, 9. series, 14, 82: 427 –
453.
65
Orian, A. J. E. 1956: Hemiptera (Heteroptera and Homoptera excluding Sternorhyncha) of Mauritius. –
Annals and Magazine of Natural History, 12. series, 9, ??: 641 – 659.
Brooks, G. T. 1951: A revision of the genus Anisops (Notonectidae, Hemiptera). – University of Kansas
Science Bulletin 34: 301 – 519.
Mamet, J. R. 1957: A revised and annotated list of the Hemiptera (Heteroptera and Homoptera,
excluding Sternorhyncha) of Mauritius. – Mauritius Institute Bulletin 5, 2: 31 – 81. 01.08. 1957
Mamet, J. R. & Webb-Gebert, F. 1980: Insects and other arthropoda of medical interest in Mauritius. –
Mauritius Institute Bulletin 9, 1: 53 – 73.
Polhemus, D. A. & Polhemus J. T. 2008: A new Indian Ocean species of Ochterus from the island of
Mauritius (Hemiptera): Heteroptera: Ochteridae). – Acta Entomologica Musei Nationalis Pragae 48, 2:
281 – 288.
Andersen, N. M. & Weir, T. A. 2000: The coral treaders, Hermatobates Carpenter (Hemiptera:
Hermatobatidae), of Australia and New Caledonia with notes on biology and ecology. – Invertebrate
Taxonomy 14: 327 – 345.
Polhemus, D. A. 1990: The Heteroptera of Aldabra Atoll and nearby islands, western Indian Ocean,
Part 1. Marine Heteroptera (Insecta): Gerridae, Veliidae, Hermatobatidae, Saldidae and Omaniidae,
with notes on ecology and insular zoogeography. – Atoll Research Bulletin 345: 1 – 16.
66
ANNEX 4: Freshwater Biodiversity round
table notes of meeting.
Notes prises au cours de la Table Ronde sur l’évaluation rapide de la diversité biologique et des
espèces envahissantes dans les écosystèmes d’eau douce de Maurice et de Rodrigues.
Octobre 2015 - COI, Ebène
Introduction
Mot d’accueil du chargé de mission de la COI responsable de la thématique, Mme Gina Bonne.
Discours de M. V Bachraz, Point Focal adjoint du Projet Biodiversité et représentant du National Parks
and Conservation Services (NPCS). Discours en annexe A
La présidence de la table ronde est assurée par Mr. V. Bachraz, la Facilitation par Mr. O. Tyack.
Approbation de l’agenda (agenda final en annexe B).
Présentation de la revue littéraire (annexe C)
Pour la disponibilité des documents, les commentaires, les espaces partagés sur Dropbox, ainsi que
celui de la COI ont été présentés (voir lien ci-dessous). Tous les participants présents n’ayants pas de
soucis pour se connecter sur l’outil dropbox, cela resteras l’outil de travail privilégié, les documents
seront ensuite mis sur la plateforme COI.
https://www.dropbox.com/sh/f9kn3fd3j8uvm0v/AACJMeU-MHIX4taBheAINyFLa?dl=0
La biodiversité en eau douce seul a été prise en compte du fait que la réglementation nationale
différencie le « freshwater biodiversity » du « wetlands » au travers 2 projets de lois distincts.
A ajouter une agence publique dans la liste des institutions : l’agricultural services.
Les compléments à la revue littéraire :

Insectes : L’entomofaune aquatique n’as pas été considéré (water beetles, etc.), il existe des
chercheurs autrichiens qui travaillent sur ce volet avec le département « forestry » et M.
Ganeshan.

Recensement de la faune : Il existe un groupe international d’experts à contacter/consulter
(SSC de IUCN) si état des lieux à faire.

Réduction des pesticides : beaucoup d’actions et de projets en place pour l’agriculture vivrière

Le volet sensibilisation est un volet important ne pas négliger

Amphibiens : 3 espèces à inclure

Certains oiseaux sont à rajouter a la revue, par exemple: Poules d’eau, canards, oies,
corbijeaux .
67

Berges : Le control des Espèces envahissantes sur les berges (95% par endroit) est une
priorité. S’assurer qu’un travail est fait à ce niveau. Les berges sont patrouillées par le service
des forets
Travail dans les rivières, diversions (constructions) passe par la Cour Suprême pour les berges, mais
cela passe par le service des forêts avant.
Présentation « wetlands » (annexe D)
Il a été évoqué au cours des discussions, un gros souci de manque de communication, inter
ministériels sur des domaines similaires (cas du ENVIRONMENTALLY SENSITIVE AREAS (ESA) pour
les wetlands). Une solution est à trouver à cela. Le manque de communication sur ces rapports serait à
discuter dans le plan d’action, sous un volet coordination. La représentante du Ministère de
l’Environnement va demander à son ministère de mettre ce rapport à la disposition de la COI.
Presentation du Native terrestrial biodiversity and National Parks Bill (Annexe E)
Pas de commentaires spécifiques à ce stade, le projet de loi est passé en première lecture au
parlement en Octobre 2015.
Brainstorming sur le Plan d’action
-
Coordination / Communication inter agences
-
Ce travail d’inventaire fait partie des priorités du NBSAP (en cours de révision).
-
Gap dans la responsabilité de la biodiversité en eau douce : Une nécessité de désigner une
organisation qui coordonne et supervise les activités et avoir des objectifs précis, réalistes et
opérationnels
-
Next step :
o
demander les besoins de chaque acteur
o
Identifier ce qui valoriserait les zones aquatiques
o
Travail d’éducation à faire ;
o
Vulgariser les textes règlementaires ;
o
Projet pilote sur un bassin versant ;
o
Voir l’Exemple des Seychelles sur les écoles (adopter une rivière)
o
Recherche par approche paysagère (landscape approach)
o
De l’information additionnelle du service de l’agriculture pour compléter le document.
o
Increase enforcement in reserves, plant native species in the reserves
o
Impact de l’agriculture sur le système aquatique
68
Un plan d’action national (annexe F)
Un travail de groupes a permis d’aboutir à
une ébauche de plan d’action. Les
discussions ont permis de trouver un
consensus sur les priorités à donner à ce
plan d’action (voir photos ci-contre).
La priorité que le groupe a identifié est de
faire une évaluation rapide de la faune et
de la flore des milieux d’eau douce, dans
cette étude d’y définir des indicateurs
biologiques, d’identifier les services
environnementaux, d’inclure un volet sur
les impacts des Espèces Envahissantes.
L’ensemble de ces données va servir à
écrire un « cabinet brief » éclairé. En
parallèle il est aussi prévu d’inclure dans le
document national qu’est le « Water
outlook », un volet avec des indicateurs
biologiques.
Harmonisation des lois et leadership: de
discussions intéressante sur la nécessité de
remettre à plat les lois de l’environnement et
de harmoniser celles-ci. Le groupe a mis en
avant des incohérences : par exemple le
même ministère qui gère l’exploitation de la ressource et en même temps en assure sa protection.
Cette situation crée des conflits d’intérêt entre les différents services d’un même ministère. C’est le cas
au ministère de la pêche, mais aussi à l’agro-industrie. Il y aurait une nécessité de transférer tout le
volet Conservation/protection sous la tutelle du ministère de l’environnement. (Pourquoi pas un
groupe de travail sous le comité ICZM, cela rejoins la convention de Nairobi et le programme de travail
sur les eaux intérieures de la CBD. Cela induit que la définition mauricienne de l’ICZM s’étende de 1km
des cotes aux bassins versants).
69
Discussions sur l’éducation :

La nécessité de vulgariser les lois.

Effectuer un projet pilote avec une approche paysagère (landscape approach) sur une zone de
bassin versant.
L’importance des religions et les
liens avec la mère nature et les
rivières.
Une recommendation sur la lecture du
pape francois ; « Loué sois-tu », Lettre
encyclique Laudato Si' sur l'écologie Pape François (Auteur) - Paru le 19 juin
2015.
Mais aussi le lien entre les offrandes
pour les fêtes dans les rivières, et leurs
impacts.
Si on regarde ce qui se passe en Inde, il
y a un mouvement dans le sens de
l’utilisation de solutions moins dommageable pour l’environnement, et ce au travers des collectivités
locales en accord avec les temples
http://edenkeeper.org/2015/09/17/celebrating-ganesh-chaturthi-the-wise-way/
http://www.forumforhinduawakening.org/understanding/glory-of-hindu-dharma/pollution-caused-due-toimmersion-methods
http://e-coexist.com/products/ganesh-chaturthi/the-environmental-impact-of-ganesh-chaturthi
Les religions peuvent agir comme vecteur de communication dans le cadre d’une meilleure protection,
gestion des cours d’eau.
Une proposition pourrais être de mettre à l’agenda du conseil des religions, une thématique sur
le respect de notre environnement avec un focus tous les ans en commençant par les rivières,
cours d’eau et bassins.
http://conseil-des-religions.e-monsite.com/
70
Annexe A : Discours d’ouverture du représentant du National Park and Conservation Services
71
72
73
74
75
76
77
78
Annexe B : Agenda final.
AGENDA
Table ronde
Evaluation rapide de la diversité biologique et des espèces envahissantes dans les
écosystèmes d’eau douce de l'île Maurice et de Rodrigues”
Date : 15 octobre 2015 à partir de 8h30
Lieu : Commission de l’Océan Indien, Ebène
Salle de réunion – 4ème étage
Les documents de références sont partagés sur
Facilitateur:
Olivier Tyack
Rapporteurs:
COI
Chair :
NPCS,
les répertoires communs suivants:
Et la Plateforme COI
Ministère de l’agro-industrie et de la sécurité
alimentaire
79
Jeudi 15 octobre 2015
heure
Activités
Intervenants
8:30 -9:00
Enregistrement des participants
Secretariat du projet
Biodiversité
9:00 – 9:30
Ouverture
COI
Ministère de l’agro-industrie et
de la sécurité alimentaire
9:30-9:45
Tour de table pour la
présentation des participants
et adoption de l’agenda,
Participants
9:45 – 10:30
Présentation de l’ébauche de
revue littéraire
10:30 – 10:45
Pause de Thé
10:45 – 11:30
Tour de table des rajouts à la
revue littéraire
11 :30 -12 :30
Projets de lois en cours :
Wetlands bill
Native terrestrial biodiversity
and national parks bill
12:00 – 12:30
Olivier Tyack
Drona Bissoonauthsing
participants
NPCS
participants
12:30- 13:30
Lunch
COI cantine
13:30 – 14:30
La nécessité de gérer la
biodiversité des eaux douces et
sa coordination nationale.
participants
14:30 – 15:00
Un plan d’action national
15:00 – 15:30
Pause de Thé
15:30-16:00
Eléments pour la suite…
participants
80
Annexe C : Overview of the initial draft of the literature review on freshwater biodiversity
(O.Tyack)
81
82
83
84
85
86
87
88
89
Annexe D : The Native terrestrial biodiversity and national parks bill (freshwater biodiversity
focus) by V. Bachraz
90
91
92
Annexe E : Wetlands conservation in Mauritius (Houshna Naujeer)
93
94
95
96
97
98
99
Annexe F : Liste des participants
100