Changes in fish composition and diversity in the Lake Malawi National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site

Fish abundance in Lake Malawi National Park (LMNP) has declined significantly by 47% between 2021 and 2025, while species richness and diversity remained stable. The study, conducted across Mumbo, Domwe, and Thumbi West Islands at depths of 3, 12, and 20 meters, found that fish assemblages varied significantly over time, sites, and depth gradients. Although the park serves as a critical conservation refuge for Lake Malawi's biodiversity—hosting 134 species, mostly cichlids—this decline warrants further investigation into potential drivers, such as anthropogenic pressures or encroachment. The findings underscore the need for continued monitoring and adaptive management to safeguard LMNP's ecological integrity.

M’balaka, M. S., Rusuwa, B., Zatha, R., Kabowa, K. H., Phiri, T. B., Simfukwe, K., Chinguwo, P., Mwithokona, M., Manthonyera, R., Gama, M., & Chirwa, W. W. (2026). Changes in fish composition and diversity in the Lake Malawi National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Journal of Freshwater Ecology, 41(1). https://doi.org/10.1080/02705060.2026.2701729