Fish species composition in a tropical lentic freshwater ecosystem, Umudike, Umuahia, Abia State, Nigeria

Abstract

Fish species composition of a tropical lentic freshwater ecosystem (Umudike Water Reservoir, Umuahia, Nigeria) belonging to the National Root Crops Research Institute (NRCRI) was investigated from July 2004 to December 2004. The fishes were sampled twice every week using cast nets, traditional baskets traps (drum type), and hook-and-line of various sizes. A total of 896 fish approximately 500 kilogramme by weight were sampled. The sampled fish species belonged to fifteen (15) families, twenty-four (24) genera and thirty-two (32) species. Family cichlidae topped the list in number and weight with 665 (74.2%) fishes and 400, 900 g (82.8%) respectively; while the families Anabantidae and Hepsetidae had the least number, 7 (0.8%) each; 1,400 g (0.8%) and 1,500 g (0.3%) respectively. There was significant difference among the different species composition. The reservoir, with the fish species composition could be utilized for fisheries.