Abstract This study presents the first comprehensive ecological assessment of the Dabar River, a small karstic watercourse in the Sanski Most area, using biological indicators focusing on the macrozoobenthos community, microbiological parameters, and ichthyofaunal composition. Sampling was conducted at three sites (headwaters, middle course, and downstream section), applying standard methods for the analysis of macrozoobenthos composition, bacterial abundance (including Escherichia coli), and biological indices (SI, BMWP, ASPT, EBI). The results indicate a good ecological status of the river, particularly in the headwater section, with a slight decline in water quality downstream. A rich and stable benthic fauna was identified, dominated by Gammarus fossarum, Sadleriana fluminensis, and representatives of the EPT groups. Microbiological findings revealed low to moderate levels of contamination, with no presence of fecal bacteria. Dabarska Cave, which hosts endemic subterranean crustaceans and olm Proteus anguinus, represents a particular ecological value of the area. Guidelines for conservation and sustainable management are proposed, including legal protection of the watercourse, pollution control, and the development of ecotourism.

Abstract As an endemic species, Dalmatian barbelgudgeon was introduced into Šatorsko Lake, but it was insufficiently explored at this locality. The aim of this study was to determine seasonal variations of physicochemical parameters of the water in relation to morphometric and hematological parameters of Dalmatian barbelgudgeon from Šatorsko Lake. Physicochemical analysis of the water recorded lower values of temperature, O2 concentration, O2 saturation, electrolytic conductivity and suspended matter in autumn, while other analyzed parameters indicated lower values in spring. The analysis of morphometric parameters (weight, standard length, total length and Fulton’s condition factor) determined higher values of all the parameters during spring, while a significant difference was noted only for Fulton’s condition factor. A statistically significant difference was observed for all erythrocyte lineage parameters (RBC-red blood cells, HB-hemoglobin concentration, HCT-hematocrit, MCV-mean corpuscular volume, MCH-mean corpuscular hemoglobin, MCHC-mean corpuscular hemoglobin concentrations). In white blood cells, a statistically significant difference was recorded for lymphocytes, non-segmented neutrophils and monocytes, while the proportion of segmented neutrophils and basophils was slightly increased in spring. Furthermore, the recorded values of pseudo-eosinophils were equal in spring and autumn. The results of these studies indicate a significant influence of exogenous and endogenous factors on the variability of morphometric and hematological parameters of Dalmatian barbelgudgeon from Šatorsko Lake.

Abstract. Alongside climate change, the introduction of non-native species (NNS) is widely recognized as one of the main threats to aquatic biodiversity and human wellbeing. Non-native species and biodiversity are generally low priority issues on the political agendas of many countries, particularly in European countries outside the European Union (EU). The objectives and tasks of this study were to address the policy regulation, education level, education practices, and socioeconomic perceptions of NNS in the Balkans. A questionnaire-based survey was conducted in Albania, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Montenegro, North Macedonia and Turkey (Balkan EU candidate and potential candidate members), in Croatia and Greece (Balkan EU Member States) and Italy (non-Balkan EU Member State). The EU Alien Regulation (1143/2014) concerning NNS is implemented in EU Member States and Montenegro, whereas Albania, Bosnia and Herzegovina and Turkey have not reported specific policy regulations for NNS. Permanent monitoring programmes specifically designed for NNS have not yet been established in the EU Member States. Most countries tackle the issue of NNS through educational activities as part of specific projects. Education level is indicative of the implementation of NNS policy regulation, and efforts are needed for the proper development of relative study programmes. Public awareness and educational preparedness concerning NNS in the Balkans were identified as poor. Strong programmes for management and education should be developed to increase public awareness to prevent further biodiversity losses in the Balkan region.