FISH SPECIES COMPOSITION AND DISTRIBUTION IN FISHING COMMUNITIES ALONG OGUN RIVER BASIN, SOUTHWEST, NIGERIA
Abstract
The rate of overexploitation, pollution, habitat destruction, climate change, invasive species, and disease outbreaks in inland waters pose significant threats to biodiversity, underscoring the need for comprehensive research on freshwater ecosystems. Monitoring the diversity, abundance and richness of species in these ecosystems is crucial for assessing their status and stability. This research aimed to develop a comprehensive catalogue of fish species in Ogun River, facilitating ongoing monitoring of endangered or extinct species. The catalogue will provide a vital baseline for conservation and management efforts, promoting the long-term sustainability of the river's ecosystem. This study was carried out along Ogun River basin, for nine months from December 2019 to August 2020, in five fishing communities (Oyan, Alamutu, Lafenwa, Oriyanrin, Akomoje) based on their level of fishing activity. Data were collected through experimental field record of fish species across five landing sites with each site sampled on monthly basis with minimum of three canoes assessed in each location for their catches. The catches were sorted and identified into species using standard fish identification keys. Results revealed that, Twenty eight (28) fish species from 16 families were found in Ogun River, with family Cichlidae accounting for the highest proportion (32.1%), followed by the families Mormyridae (10.7%), Alestidae (7.1%), and Anabantidae (7.1%). Of the 28 fish species, only eight (28.6%) were evenly distributed across all locations. An examination of the fisheries value chain in Ogun River revealed that despite the critical roles played by various stakeholders, their participation in the formulation and implementation of policies guiding fisheries activities was remarkably low. This is particularly disturbing given the actors' intimate familiarity with the river's ecosystem. The findings of this study underscore the urgent need for sustainable management practices to conserve the fisheries resources of Ogun River. Gear restriction, closed season/area, number of fishermen per trip, diversification of fishers into aquaculture and non-fisheries activities were strongly recommended to conserve the fisheries resources of the River.
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