**New Scientific Atlas Highlights Changes in Liechtenstein’s Freshwater Ecosystems**
*Vaduz, 28 August 2026* – A comprehensive reference work on the principality’s inland waters was unveiled on Wednesday evening at the Landesmuseum. The publication, *Band 33* of the series *„Naturkundliche Forschung im Fürstentum Liechtenstein“*, presents the latest findings of the Liechtenstein Institute for Natural Sciences (LINS) on the composition and dynamics of the country’s aquatic fauna.
The atlas documents 26 fish species that inhabit Liechtenstein’s rivers, streams and lakes. In addition to fish, the work examines the role of freshwater mussels, describing them as “sub‑tenants” that occupy ecological niches beneath the water surface. Based on the data compiled for the atlas, the authors identify species that have benefited from recent environmental changes as well as those that have declined, thereby designating clear “winners” and “losers” within the local ecosystem.
LINS researchers emphasized that the publication aims to make previously hidden aspects of the underwater environment more accessible to both the scientific community and the public. The atlas is expected to serve as a baseline for future monitoring efforts and to inform conservation strategies targeting vulnerable species.
The presentation was attended by museum officials, representatives of the Ministry of Environment, local conservation groups and members of the scientific community. The atlas will be available in the museum’s library and through LINS’s distribution channels.
Article and image source: landesspiegel.li
