Anthropogenic barriers to longitudinal river connectivity in Greece: A review

An inventory of anthropogenic barriers to longitudinal river connectivity in Greece is presented based on an extensive literature review. We mapped Greece???s 275 major dams and developed an ongoing inventory of 661 other barriers compiled from various sources; we further summarized future dam barriers as published in Greece???s river basin area management plans. Environmental professionals and engineers were also interviewed to investigate perceptions and preferences concerning longitudinal river connectivity. Fish were given priority as reference organisms in questionnaire responses, the reviewed literature and relevant legislation, but other biodiversity elements were rarely addressed. Dams prevail as the most prominent perceived barrier pressures while most respondents seem to recognize problems with other barrier types as well. However, mention of small barrier infrastructure in the literature or legislation is very scarce and there is no systematic inventory of in-stream infrastructure barriers, fish passes or other barrier mitigation or restoration interventions. Recommendations for particular unmet needs and opportunities for restoration of a variety of barrier types are addressed. It is crucial that attention for preservation and restoration measures involving lotic waters connectivity issues be introduced in the country???s EU-inspired water body management and within protected areas in particular. ?? 2021 European Regional Centre for Ecohydrology of the Polish Academy of Sciences. Published by Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Automated summary

This study presents an inventory of anthropogenic barriers to longitudinal river connectivity in Greece based on a comprehensive literature review. The research identified dams as the most prominent barriers, but also highlighted issues with other types of barriers. However, there is a lack of research and legislation regarding small barrier infrastructure, as well as a lack of systematic inventory of barrier mitigation or restoration measures. The study emphasizes the importance of introducing preservation and restoration measures for lotic waters connectivity in Greece's EU-inspired water body management and protected areas.