Assessment of Physico-Chemical Characteristics and Fish Diversity of Hill streams in Karbi Anglong district, Assam, India

Abstract

A study was carried out during March 2011 to November 2013 to assess the limnological parameters and diversity of fish fauna of three hill streams of Karbi Anglong district, Assam. The parameters studied included air temperature, water temperature, dissolved oxygen (D.O.), electrical conductivity, total dissolve solid (TDS), turbidity, free CO 2, phosphate and alkalinity. The study recorded 62 species of fish represented by 7 orders, 15 families and 32 genera. Shannon-Weiner diversity index of fish ranged from 3.28 to 3.88 which is indicative of rich fish diversity. However, interview with local fishermen have brought to light that there is decline of catches of many fish species in recent times. The fish fauna of the study area face serious threats from siltation, unscientific fishing, particularly use of pesticides, and pollution. There is an urgent need to conserve hill streams of Karbi Anglong district and adopt sustainable fishing practices. Report of the present study will be useful for monitoring water quality, fish diversity, threat perceptions and serve as baseline information for further research in the region.