Aquatic Species at Risk in the Thames River Watershed

The Thames River is one of Canada’s most southern watercourses. The river and its many tributaries are rich in aquatic life, with approximately 90 species of fish, 30 species of freshwater mussels and 30 species of reptiles and amphibians. 

Several of the indigenous (native) species that live in the Thames are found almost nowhere else in Canada. However, the Thames is situated in a highly developed part of southern Ontario and, as such, faces many pressures from urban and rural land uses and human activities. Some of the species that historically were found in the Thames have not been sighted here for many years. Twenty-four aquatic species found in the Thames River have been nationally listed as extirpated, endangered, threatened, or of special concern including 11 fish, seven mussels, and six reptiles (four turtles and two snakes).

Why Are These Species Important?

Most species at risk are sensitive to environmental changes. The aquatic species at risk require clean water and a healthy river to survive. If their populations are declining, it is a warning sign for the state of the river’s health. 

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