The California Department of Fish and Wildlife (CDFW) this week released the third edition of "California Fish Species of Special Concern" by the Shed's Peter Moyle, alums Rebecca Quiñones and Jacob Katz and Jeff Weaver of CDFW. This is the first update in 20 years and shows continued dramatic decline of California native fishes.

The accounts of 63 species are useful first references for anyone interested in native fishes. The scientists use a standardized system for evaluating the status of these fishes.

"Species of special concern" is a CDFW designation that carries no legal status but helps managers focus conservation efforts on fishes at risk — before they become officially listed as threatened or endangered with extinction.