Leuciscus aspius

A recent study documented the presence of Leuciscus aspius (commonly known as asp) in Tajikistan, particularly within the Tigrovaya Balka Nature Reserve and its surrounding river systems. This fish species, previously recorded under various taxonomic names such as Aspius aspius erythrostomus and Aspius aspius taeniatus natio ibilioides, was observed in key habitats including the Syr Darya, Amu Darya, Kairakkum reservoir, and lower reaches of the Vakhsh River. The research, conducted between 2003 and 2018, involved field sampling from floodplain lakes and riverbeds, contributing critical data to the species' distribution in Tajikistan. While Leuciscus aspius is currently listed as least concern globally, this study highlights its ecological significance within UNESCO-recognized protected areas, emphasizing the need for further conservation efforts.

Artaev, O., Thoni, R., Mirzoev, N., & Levin, B. (2025). Leuciscus aspius. Zenodo. https://doi.org/10.5281/ZENODO.20514681