Researchers from Austria, the Czech Republic, Slovakia, Romania, Croatia, and Hungary gathered at the HUN-REN Balaton Limnological Research Institute between October 8–11, 2025, to work together for the future of endangered fish species associated with wetlands — such as the European mudminnow, weatherfish, and crucian carp.
The aim of the meeting was to connect researchers and conservation professionals and to launch cooperation for the preservation of Central European wetlands. The program included presentations, project idea workshops, and field visits.
The key outcome of the workshop was the development of several new research and project directions, including:
• a cross-border wetland fish conservation program
• the development of a shared bibliometric database
• the establishment of an eDNA network for fish species monitoring
• functional diversity studies
• preparation of a training series for young researchers
• integration of science and culture into nature conservation
Participants agreed on the need to create a long-term regional cooperation platform to support research, data sharing, and joint conservation initiatives. Several international project proposals (Horizon Europe, Interreg, Biodiversa+, COST) are already being developed.
8237 Tihany,
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