Original Research Article
An Assessment and Identification of Fish Species Abundance and Endangered in River Donga Taraba State, Nigeria
*Amos, J. T. |
Ali, JA’Afru |
Abubakar, A. K. |
Article Number: DRJAFS92819109
DOI: https://doi.org/10.26765/DRJAFS92819109
ISSN: 2354-4147
Vol.8 (2), pp.62-66 February 2020
Copyright © 2020
Author(s) retain the copyright of this article
Abstract
A study was conducted to identify the abundance and endangered fish species in River Donga, Taraba state, Nigeria from March 2018 to August 2019. Two hundred and seventy-two (272) structured questionnaires were administered to fishers and Two hundred and forty-two (242) were recorded. Analysis of global fisheries data has shown a decrease in the mean size of individual fish species and in the value of the catches. The samples collected were identified using Field Guide to Nigerian Freshwater Fishes prepared by Olaosebikan and Raji. Data collected were recorded and analyzed using a simple percentage. The most abundant fish species was Oreochromis niloticus (9.18%) while the lowest was Hyperopsus bebe and Labeo barbusbynni (0.19%) each. The most endangered fish species was Gymnarchus niloticus (21.28%) and the lowest was malapterurus electricus (0.53%). The causes of endangered fish species were used of poison had the highest (30.94%) and the lowest was size of fishing gear used (1.1%). Hence, the crude technique of fishing which was widely practiced in River Donga Taraba State, Nigeria has not only brought a serious decline in fisheries sector but has also introduced hazards of various magnitudes to the entire aquatic environment. However, crude method should be prohibited from using among the fish folks for realization of sustainable environment.
Keywords: Fish species, identified, abundance, endangered, River DongaReceived: January 3, 2020 Accepted: February 4, 2020 Published: February 28, 2020