An estimated 45,000 described species rely on freshwater habitats, including species of fishes, mollusks, reptiles, insects, plants, and mammals. With the inclusion of undescribed species, this number could rise to over one million. The major threats to freshwater biodiversity are habitat loss, introduction of alien species, pollution, and over harvesting.

To conserve and manage freshwater biodiversity, the Unit works in conjunction with the SSC’s Specialist Groups such as the IUCN/SSC/WI Freshwater Fish Specialist Group, The Species Information Service, The Global Amphibian Assessment Programme, regional scientists, experts in freshwater biodiversity and policy makers.