Target species

The project uses innovative intervention methods to strengthen the presence of threatened species. In a large number of watercourses and coastal environments, habitat conservation measures will create more viable populations of various species.
Priority species are the threatened mussel species pearl mussel and thick-shelled mussel, as well as the fish species salmon and sea lamprey.
But several other species will benefit and be supported by the extensive measures.

Two endangered mussels
The pearl mussel and the thick-shelled mussel are both critically endangered species that are now being reintroduced into watercourses where they have previously declined sharply or disappeared completely. These mussels play an important role as natural purifiers in water systems. If successful, they can lead to cleaner water and richer biodiversity.

In several waters, including Lyckebyån, Bräkneån and Bråån, river pearl mussels and thick-shelled mussels will be strengthened by releasing host fish infected with mussel larvae into the water systems. Increasing the abundance of mussels in water bodies has positive synergies that benefit the whole food chain.

Two endangered fish species
Stocks of migratory fish species such as salmon and sea lamprey are all in a critical situation. The Improve Aquatic LIFE project will remove migration barriers and build fishways in a number of rivers. Another important measure is to increase the connectivity of watercourses, i.e. to link rivers and lakes into larger water systems.
In addition to salmon and sea lamprey, a large number of other fish species will benefit greatly as a result of the habitat improvements.