The distribution, conservation status and factors affecting the survival of indigenous freshwater fishes in the Cape Province

The distribution and conservation status of each species is described, and table and maps are also used. The factors which possibly affect the survival of the indigenous freshwater fish species are discussed. The most important appear to be environmental changes resulting from farming and water extraction. Other factors include dam construction, mining, industrial development, human settlement and chemical pollution. The introduction of exotic fish species also has a significant effect. A new freshwater management policy has been drawn up using the results of this fish distribution survey.