Distribution, Conservation Status ‎and Identification Key of ‎Luciobarbus Heckel 1843 in Iran

Luciobarbus is one of the most important and economical genus of the Cyprinidae family, most of them are similar in appearance, making it difficult to identify species. In the present study, 519 stations in seven basins, including: Caspian, Namak, Urmia, Hari, Tigris, Persis and Hormuz basins were sampled using nets, electro fisher and jigging, during the years 2011-2011. In total, the presence of nine species including L. barbulus, L. brachycephalus, L. capito, L. conocephalus, L. esocinus, L. kersin, L. mursa, L. subquincunciatus and L. xanthopterus was confirmed in Iran's inland waters. For the approved members of this genus in Iran, the identification key were presented and their distribution map were prepared. Also, after examining the conservation status of the members of this genus, it was suggested that a well-codified, principled and scientific program be considered to identify populations, suitable places for reproduction and release of larvae from reproduction in captivity.