Diversity and community composition of ichthyofauna at Konhaye Stream, district Dir Lower, Pakistan

Abstract

This study was undertaken to investigate the diversity, abundance ratio and distribution of the fish species and record the water quality of Konhaye stream, Dir Lower, Pakistan. A total of 16 fish species were recorded, belonging to 4 orders (Cypriniformes, Channiformes, Siluriformes and Mastacebilformes), and 5 families including Cyprinidae (Schizopyge esocinus, Racoma labiata, Cyprinion watsoni, Cyprinus carpio, Barilius pakistanicus, Barilius vagra, Barilius modestus, Crossocheilus diplocheilus, Garra gotyla, Puntius ticto and Puntius sophore), Channidae (Channa punctatus and Channa gachua), Nemacheilidae (Schistura macrolepis), Sisoidae (Glyptothorax punjabensis) and Mastacembelidae (Mastacembelus armatus). Different indices (Simpson's biodiversity index (D), Simpson's reciprocal index (1/D), Simpson's evenness index (E1/D), species richness (S), Shannon-Weiner's index (H′), Menhinick's index (Dmn), and Margalef's index (Dmg)) were calculated for the stream. The physicochemical parameters (temperature, dissolved Oxygen, pH, turbidity, electric conductivity, free CO2, total dissolved solids, total alkalinity, total suspended solids, total hardness, salinity, calcium hardness, magnesium hardness, potassium, sodium, chloride and nitrate level) were also monitored throughout the study period and were found to be in varying ranges. The stream was found to be harbouring a number of economically valuable fish species. An exotic fish species, Cyprinus carpio, was found well flourished, which indicated the potential of the stream, and can be used for mitigating the declining ichthyofaunal diversity in the main riverine body. Two species, Puntius sophore and Puntius ticto, were recorded for the first time from the district. Proper management, appropriate fish stocking, and implementing environmental/fishing laws are suggested for the maintenance of the diversity and alleviating anthropogenic stress/threats.