A Comparative Study on The Diversity  of Ornamental and Foodfishes of River  Achenkovil In Relation to Various PhysicoChemical Characteristics

M. G. Sanal Kumar; Jayalekshmy V.; Mayalekshmi. P

Volume : II, Issue : II, February - 2013

A Comparative Study on The Diversity of Ornamental and Foodfishes of River Achenkovil In Relation to Various PhysicoChemical Characteristics

M. G. Sanal Kumar, Jayalekshmy V. , Mayalekshmi. P

Abstract :

Fish: as the keystone species, assemblage structure and function are crucial for effective assessment and monitoring of rivers. Fish and surface water samples were collected seasonally from three sites of Achenkovil River during September 2010- August 2011. Identification was done using standard keys and physico-chemical and statistical analysis were done using standard procedures.76 fish species belonging to 22 families were collected, of which 44 were ornamental & 32 were food fishes, 12 endangered, 13 vulnerable, and 2 critically endangered according to IUCN norms. 12 species endemic to Western Ghats and 5 endemic to Kerala. Cyprinidae recorded dominant. Downstream is more diverse. PCA showed that physico-chemical parameters influence the diversity and distribution of the fishes. This data acts as a decision making tool for continuous biodiversity monitoring, conservation of germplasm, declaration of aquatic sanctuaries, protection of endangered species and mitigation of anthropogenic activities.