Studenica is a living testament to Europe’s biological diversity!

In August 2025, a team of scientists from the “Siniša Stanković” Institute for Biological Research in Belgrade conducted a study of the lower course of the Studenica River, which covers roughly one-fifth of its total length.


The Studenica River, which springs from Golija, flows for almost its entire course through a gorge with canyon-like features, giving it unique natural and scenic value. This inaccessibility has allowed the preservation of a rich and native biodiversity.

During the study, protected species were recorded, including trout (Salmo trutta), Balkan barbel (Barbus balcanicus), spirlin (Alburnoides bipunctatus), and chub (Squalius cephalus). Non-protected species such as stone loach (Barbatula barbatula) and gudgeon (Gobio gobio) were also observed.

It is particularly significant that, for the first time in this area, the Balkan loach (Sabanejewia balcanica) and stone loach (Barbatula barbatula) were recorded in this part of the river, confirming that the Studenica continues to reveal hidden biological diversity.

The study revealed a high level of biodiversity and a complex structure of the fish community. Preserving this unique ecosystem is of crucial importance, especially in light of the planned construction of a dam and reservoir in the study area (MHE Studenica S4 Gradina), as well as the presence of six small hydropower plants (MHE) in its watershed and other pressures such as quarrying, poaching, deforestation, improper disposal of municipal waste, and more. These factors pose a serious threat to trout and other protected species.

The Studenica River, along with its tributaries, represents one of the fundamental values of the area, which is why Golija Nature Park and the Golija–Studenica Biosphere Reserve (UNESCO MAB) have been placed under protection.

The Studenica River is a living testament to the biological diversity of Serbia and Europe—its future depends on our ability to preserve this unique ecosystem.