Diversity and Abundance of Small Indigenous Fish (SIF) in Human Stressed Major Tributaries of the Awash River

Abstract

Small indigenous fish (SIF) are a source of protein, essential fatty acids, vitamins and minerals in most parts of the world.  This study assessed the community structure and nutritional content of SIF in the tributaries of Awash River. Fish samples were collected from eight sampling sites using electrofishing device. A total of 2240 fish specimens comprising four species namely Garra quadrimaculata, Garra dembecha, Garra makiensis and Barbus sp. were collected during the sampling period. A high SIF abundance (218 individuals/100m²) and biomass (1769 g/100m²⁾ was recorded at Legedadi above the dam (UA4) and Garra species were numerically the dominant taxa in all sampling sites. Turbidity and river size (width and depth) were the predominant factors affecting SIF diversity, abundance and biomass.  Barbus sp. contained higher fat content (10%) compared with a widely consumed O.niloticus which was less than 1%.   A higher level of mineral contents (mg/kg) were identified in Garra species (Ca = 37.7; Fe =53.09; Zn= 55.18) than O. niloticus (Ca = 0.2; Fe =28; Zn= 14) (ANOVA, p < 0.05). This could be attributed to the bottom feeding behavior of SIF in river beds enriched with diverse minerals. High abundance of SIF in rivers with considerably high macro-and micronutrients is an opportunity to promote their role in food and nutrition security. Thus, future studies should focus on sustainable fishing practices, processing techniques and recipe preparation.