Composition and production of ichthyofauna in Gurara Water Reservoir, Kaduna State, Nigeria

Abstract

Gurara reservoir and associated works were developed by the Federal Government of Nigeria mainly to increase the natural water at Lower Usuma Dam for onward supply to the Federal Capital Territory. The ichthyofauna status of the reservoir is barely known. This study was undertaken to disclose the fish condition and production rate of the reservoir. Experimental gillnet sampling and fish catches from artisanal fishers were simultaneously assessed over 12 months (June 2014 - May 2015) to determine the fish composition, abundance and estimate the current fish yield of the reservoir. Also, a frame survey was carried out to determine the size and distribution of fishing localities, do a census of fisherfolk, fishing craft, and gears. Altogether, 14 species from 7 families were encountered, and a production rate of 8.83 kg/ha was established. The result also brings to light that the reservoir is low in fish biodiversity and productivity is found to be very low when compared with some other similar water bodies in Nigeria. The reservoir is grossly underexploited and suggestions for sustainable fisheries are proffered.