Biodiversity of Fishes in Hasdev River District Janjgir Champa (C. G.)

Abstract

The Hasdeo River, a major tributary of the Mahanadi in the Janjgir-Champa district of Chhattisgarh, India, harbors a rich and diverse fish fauna that is crucial for ecological balance and local livelihoods. Despite limited prior studies, this research provides a comprehensive assessment of ichthyofaunal diversity, spatial distribution, and environmental determinants over two years (2021–2023), covering pre-monsoon, monsoon, and post-monsoon seasons. Five strategically selected sampling stations along the river captured upstream, intermediate, urban, industrial, and downstream habitats, encompassing various microhabitats such as pools, riffles, runs, and backwaters. A total of 38 species were recorded, dominated by native Cypriniformes (Labeo rohita, Puntius sophore), Siluriformes (Mystus tengara, Rita rita), and Perciformes (Channa punctatus, Channa striatus), along with exotic species like Grass carp (Ctenopharyngodon idellus) and Silver carp (Hypophthalmichthys molitrix) introduced for aquaculture. Fish diversity and abundance were highest in less disturbed upstream areas (H’ = 2.45) and lowest in urban and industrially impacted sites (H’ = 1.55–1.85), reflecting significant correlations with water quality parameters such as dissolved oxygen, BOD, COD, and turbidity. Anthropogenic pressures, including industrial effluents, agricultural runoff, habitat modification, overfishing, and invasive species, were identified as primary threats to native fish populations. Seasonal variations influenced spawning, recruitment, and nutrient availability, with post-monsoon periods showing peak abundance. The study emphasizes the need for integrated conservation strategies, including pollution control, habitat restoration, and sustainable fisheries management, to preserve the ecological integrity of the Hasdeo River and support local communities.