Species diversity of fish in shabu stream, Nasarawa state, Nigeria

Abstract

The fish species diversity and abundance of Shabu stream was studied for a period of four months (October 2016 – January 2017). Fish and water samples were collected at three stations where riparian activities were highest inclusive of fishing. Water samples were analysed of BOD (1.82-2.30 mg/L), DO (4.72-5.37 mg/L), temperature (25.81-26.14 oC), total alkalinity (4.82-5.35 mg/L), pH (5.00-5.14) and carbon dioxide (11.95-19.37 mg/L) were found to be within productive ranges for fish growth. The diversity indices showed Tilapia zilli (Shannon Weiner 1.25, Berger-Parker 0.45, Margalef 0.71 and species richness 4.00) to be the most dominant species followed by Oreochromis niloticus and Clarias gariepinus. Further, the month of January, 2017 had the highest species abundance in the four months. It was concluded that if harnessed through proper fishing practices and other riparian activities, the Shabu stream would grow into a veritable source of fisheries products to the inhabitants of Nasarawa state.