Year: 2025
Type: article
Abstract: Fish population are impacted with the quality of water. This study is aimed at assessing the impacts of physicochemical parameters on fish species occurrence and abundance in Damba Reservoir, located in Gusau, Zamfara State, Northwestern Nigeria. Water samples were collected monthly between January and April 2025 from four strategically selected stations based on varying anthropogenic activities. Parameters measured included pH, dissolved oxygen (DO), total dissolved solids (TDS), electrical conductivity (EC), oxidation-reduction potential (ORP), temperature, depth, and transparency using water quality meters and secchi disc. Fish were sampled using gill and cast nets and identified using standard taxonomic guides. Significant spatial and temporal fluctuations were observed across most parameters, with EC, DO, pH, and TDS emerging as the most influential variables. Fish species relative abundance, comprising Oreochromis niloticus (37.83%), Sarotherodon galilaeus (37.59%), Coptodon Zilli (17.11), Sarotherodon melanotheron (2.65), Bagrus bayad (3.37), Clarias gariepinus (0.96), and Mormyrus sp (0.49). varied across sites and months. Multivariate Canonical Correspondence Analysis (CCA) revealed strong positive correlations between EC, pH, DO, TDS, and the distribution of dominant fish species, while temperature, depth, and transparency had limited influence. The findings highlight the need for regular monitoring and management of water quality parameters to preserve aquatic biodiversity and ensure sustainable fisheries in the reservoir. Recommendations include continuous physicochemical assessment, regulation of anthropogenic activities, and implementation of fishing controls to mitigate environmental stress and promote ecological stability.
Authors: Raheem Adekunle Asiru, Aminu Jabbi Muhammad, Rasheed Yemi Oladunjoye
Institutions: Federal University Gusau, Olabisi Onabanjo University
Language: English
Subfield: Aquatic Science
Domain: Life Sciences
Open Access status: diamond
OpenAlex ID: W4416854591