During a terrestrial biodiversity survey of Choiseul Island, we conducted freshwater fish surveys in seven sites between July 2005 and August 2006. We found 32 fish species from 15 families (38% of known Solomon Island freshwater fish). Most species were uncommon with the exception of Kuhlia marginata (6/7 sites), K. rupestris (5/7 sites) and Glossogobius sp. 1 (5/7 sites). No introduced species were found in any of the sites. Species richness ranged from 2-14 species per site and was highest in Lumutu River and Kolombangara River. This difference between sites is partially attributed to substrate type (higher richness in sites with gravel substrates than mud) and distance from the coast (higher richness near the coast than inland). The results of this survey in conjunction with a previous survey bring the total number of freshwater fish species on Choiseul Island to 41. This diversity is threatened by habitat degradation through sedimentation and over harvesting of some species. We recommend a number of activities to ameliorate these threats including seasonal banning of fish harvest during breeding periods and mass juvenile migrations, discouraging the practice of streamside agriculture, and education of locals on the negative impacts of logging on watershed health and productivity.

Biodiversity in the Solomon Islands Is extremely rich, and in the Pacific is second only to Papua New Guinea. Despite this high diversity there are only rough estimates for the biodiversity of most taxa in the Solomon Islands. As part of a terrestrial biodiversity survey, we conducted nocturnal surveys for frogs in a range of habitats from 10?1 060 m on Choiseul Island. This work was carried out between June 2005 and January 2006. In addition to the nocturnal surveys, we also conducted opportunistic diurnal searches for reptiles as well as community environmental education and awareness workshops. Fifteen frog species (65% of all Solomon Island frogs) including all five endemic species, were found during our surveys of Choiseul Island. Most of the species were fairly widespread and abundant, however, four species (Discodeles bufoniformis, Palmatorrapia solomonis, Brachylodes trossulus and B. wolfi) were fairly restricted in their distribution. In addition, we found 20 reptile species during opportunistic surveys (30% of all Solomon Island reptiles Including four endemics). Important habitats on Choiseul Island based on frog species richness and abundance are mid-altitude rainforest (500?600 m), primary lowland rainforest and lowland coastal forest. Unfortunately, it is these habitats that are most threatened by logging operations on the island. In order to aid biodiversity conservation on Choiseul Island we recommend a number of activities including additional biodiversity surveys, increased community awareness and education about biodiversity and the impacts of logging, and the drawing up of a management plan including all terrestrial taxa for Choiseul Island forests.