THE CHECK-LIST OF THE ITALIAN FRESHWATER FISH FAUNA

The results of the Working Group (WG) on the Systematics and Nomenclature of the italian freshwater fish species established within the A.I.I.A.D. are showed. WG, in about four years of activities, focused on the current taxonomic situation of Italian fish species (Cyclostomes and Bony Fishes), with special reference to the doubtful cases, in the light of the most recent scientific findings. The considerable amount of literature data collected allowed us to clarify the different points of view expressed by the authors who over time contributed to the deepening of knowledge. The Check-list of the Italian freshwater fish fauna could be a useful tool to reach a shared starting point to fill the existing knowledge gaps. Moreover, this need arises from the awareness that the presence of a univocal scientific nomenclature could play a key role in improving the conservation status of the native fish fauna. Finally, we believe that the scientific debate that will hopefully arise, as well as from the activities within WG, also from the presentation of the results to the Association, can represent a useful moment of comparison and cultural growth of all members. The Check-list with the proposed nomenclature for the Italian freshwater fish fauna, the notes drafted for each of the taxa examined (over 80), the sheets with the minutes of each of the discussion sessions carried out, and the archive including all the literature data collected represent useful tools that, through the website (http://www.aiiad.it), will become a shared heritage of the Association.