Fish biodiversity of river Dakatia and its conservation aspects in Bangladesh

Abstract

The study was conducted from March 2016 to December 2017 to identify River and biodiversity threats and to suggest recommendations for conservation. River encroachment, river pollution, excess aquatic vegetation, Jakh and bamboo fencing system, use of illegal harmful nets, silt bed, were recorded as major threats to River Dakatia and its fish biodiversity. In this study, 72 fish species were recorded including 12 orders and 27 families. Cypriniformes constitutes highest number of fish population (28%). Cyprinidae shares the highest percentage (19%) among the recorded family. Catfish was found to be the biggest group (27%) among the recorded 14 common groups. The biggest habitat was found to be River-Estuary (43%). Among the identified threatened fish species (20) of River Dakatia, 11 species (55%) were recorded as Vulnerable (VU), 8 species (40%) as Endangered (EN) and 1 species (5%) as Critically Endangered (CR). For the conservation of fish biodiversity as well as to save the River Dakatia, the proper authority should give highest concern on strict implementation of existing fisheries legislations.