An Assessment of Ichthyofaunal Diversity and Conservation Status of Fish from Charipunia Beel of Morigaon District, Assam, India

Abstract

The ichthyofaunal diversity of Charipunia Beel was studied for 12 months, from May 2022 to April 2023. A total of 26 fish species, representing 18 genera, 11 families, and 4 orders, were identified in the beel. The order Perciformes was the most dominant, accounting for 5 families (45.45%), 5 genera (27.77%), and 7 species (26.92%) of the total fish population. The Siluriformes order contributed significantly as well, with 2 families (18.19%), 3 genera (16.67%), and 6 species (23.08%). Clupeiformes followed with 3 families (27.27%), 3 genera (16.67%), and 3 species (11.53%). The Cypriniformes order comprised 1 family (9.09%), 7 genera (38.89%), and 10 species (38.47%). Most species were categorized as Least Concern, with 20 species contributing 58.80% of the total. The Margalef’s Richness Index (d), Pielou’s Evenness Index (J), Shannon-Weiner Index (H'), and Simpson Index (1-λ) all indicated a high level of fish diversity in the beel, with a relatively even distribution of genera, suggesting the beel is favorable for fish production. Although the condition of the beel was found to be favourable for fish production, there is an urgent need for strict imposition and monitoring of fisheries regulations during the ban season. Also, the identification and protection of indigenous fishes' feeding and breeding grounds and awareness among the fishermen are very much needed for the sustainable use of the beel.