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Updated Checklist of Bony Fishes Along the Libyan Coasts – Southern Mediterranean Sea

Bony Fish of Libya: Updated Checklist and Biodiversity Insights

This research provides an updated checklist of bony fish species found along the Libyan coastline, an understudied marine region in the southern Mediterranean Sea. The study integrates field surveys, literature reviews, and interviews with local fishermen, identifying a total of 304 species, which includes:

  • 271 native species
  • 6 endemic Mediterranean species
  • 22 non-indigenous Lessepsian species
  • 5 Atlantic-origin species

The research highlights the geographical distribution of fish species, with higher biodiversity recorded in the eastern sector of Libya. Special attention is given to Lessepsian fish species, which have been increasing due to climate change and human activities.


Key Findings :

  • Increased Species Count: This research adds 104 new species compared to previous assessments.
  • Lessepsian Migration Impact: 22 non-indigenous species of Red Sea origin (via the Suez Canal) are now established in Libya’s waters.
  • Knowledge Gaps in Local Fisheries: Field surveys combined with fishermen interviews helped bridge critical data gaps in fish biodiversity.

Research Type :


Species Inventory  &   Marine Biodiversity Assessment

Keywords :


Bony fishes, Mediterranean Sea, Libya, biodiversity, Lessepsian migration, fish conservation
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Publication Details

Authors

  • Houssein Elbaraasi
    (University of Benghazi)
  • Bahria Elabar
    (University of Benghazi)
  • Salama Elaabidi
    (University of Benghazi)
  • Asma Bashir
    (University of Benghazi)
  • Osama Elsilini
    (University of Benghazi)
  • Esmaile Shakman
    (University of Tripoli)
  • Ernesto Azzurro
    (Italian National Research Council)