Indigenous fishes inhabiting the Talabaan river system of Naawan, Misamis Oriental, Northern Mindanao, Philippines

Abstract

The species composition, abundance, diversity, evenness and similarity of the indigenous fish population inhabiting the upstream, midstream and downstream parts of Talabaan River system in Naawan, Misamis Oriental was determined. Specimens were collected using hand-held siene and cast nets. Total number of individuals of all fish species captured was 150, with 46 (30.66%), 57 (38.00%) and 47 (31.33%), respectively, recorded in the upstream, midstream, and downstream parts of the river. Eleven fish species were recorded in six families namely, Xiphophorus hellerii (44.67%), Sicyopterus lagocephalus (20.00%), Giuris margaritacea (8.00%), Glossogobius celebius (6.67%), Awaous melanocephalus (5.33%), Rhyacichthys aspro (5.33%), Glossogobius giuris (2.67%), Oreochromis niloticus (2.67%), Anguilla marmorata (2.00%), Gerres limbatus (1.33%), and Mesopristes cancellatus (1.33%). The 11 fish species might indicate that Talabaan River is a good freshwater ecosystem that could support their food and habitat requirements and other ecological needs. It is imperative therefore, that the river must be protected from overexploitation and pollution impacts. This is to sustain the economic and ecological benefits of this fishery resource for the present and future generations of Naawanons and nearby communities as well.