Freshwater ichthyofaunal diversity of Vidarbha, Maharashtra, India: A review

Abstract

Vidarbha, a region in eastern Maharashtra, India, is endowed with rich freshwater ecosystems, including rivers, reservoirs, and traditional lakes, supporting a diverse ichthyofaunal community. This review synthesizes recent studies (2009-2024) on the freshwater fish diversity of Vidarbha, focusing on species richness, dominant families, conservation status, and threats to these aquatic ecosystems. The region harbors approximately 160 fish species across 9 orders, 25 families, and 80 genera, with Cypriniformes and Cyprinidae being the most dominant. Notable water bodies include the Wardha, Wainganga, and Godavari rivers, as well as reservoirs like Itiadoh and Asolamendha. Key threats include habitat loss, pollution, overfishing, and invasive species, necessitating urgent conservation measures. This review highlights the ecological and economic significance of Vidarbha’s fish fauna and proposes science-based recommendations for sustainable management.