Assessment of the Ichthyofaunal Diversity in relation to Physico-chemical attributes of River Asan in the Garhwal Himalaya, India

Abstract

The present study investigated the water quality of River Asan based on various physicochemical parameters and its freshwater fish fauna in lower Himalaya. In two sampling sites 95 fish specimens were collected, 13 fish species belonging to 1 class, 4 orders, 4 families, 9 genera were recorded from the river Asan during the present study. Barilius bendelisis constituted high percentage in fish composition. The water quality of River Asan is good, and no substantial pollution was observed. Main 4 different ecological indices applied to fish data shows that the change in fish number is the seasonal phenomenon.  However, decline in many fish populations observed, possibly due to illegal fishing and disturbance through anthropogenic activities. There is a need to protect their natural habitats, execute policies and motivate people for the management and conservation of fish varieties in this river.

URN:NBN:sciencein.jist.2024.v12.807