The study underscores the importance of resilient waterways for aquatic species, particularly in the face of rising temperatures and changing water conditions. Vulnerable areas, such as desert rivers in the arid West, face heightened risks due to limited water availability and increasing climate pressures. Dams and other barriers further restrict the movement of fish and other species, reducing their ability to adapt. Without targeted conservation efforts, these ecosystems could experience significant biodiversity loss, impacting both wildlife and human communities reliant on these water systems.