Ichthyofaunal Diversity of Chaugada Taal, a Wetland of Balrampur, Uttar Pradesh, India: Threats and Conservation

Abstract

The present study evaluated the ichthyofaunal diversity, spatial distribution, and conservation status of fishes inhabiting Chaugada Taal, a freshwater wetland ecosystem in the Tarai region of Uttar Pradesh, India. A total of 29 fish species representing 11 families and 8 orders were documented during the study period. Among the recorded taxa, Cypriniformes was the most dominant order, followed by Siluriformes, whereas Perciformes, Ophiocephaliformes, Osteoglossiformes, Clupeiformes, Beloniformes, and Mastacembelliformes contributed comparatively fewer species. The predominance of cypriniform fishes indicates the availability of suitable trophic resources and habitat conditions within the wetland. Fish assemblages exhibited considerable spatial variation among sampling stations, with S1 supporting the highest diversity, followed by S2 and S3, suggesting spatial heterogeneity in habitat characteristics. Mystus vittatus, Ompok pabda, Pangasius pangasius, and Channa punctatus showed relatively broad distribution, whereas Clarias batrachus, Heteropneustes fossilis, Puntius ticto, and Mystus tengara exhibited restricted occurrence. Conservation assessment revealed that most recorded species were categorized as Least Concern, while Wallago attu and Ompok pabda were assessed as Near Threatened, and Clarias batrachus as Endangered. The occurrence of commercially important species, including Labeo rohita, Catla catla, Cirrhinus mrigala, and Wallago attu, demonstrates the fisheries significance of the wetland. However, overfishing, habitat degradation, pollution, agrochemical runoff, and destructive fishing practices may threaten fish assemblages. Strengthening habitat protection, regulating fishing activities, controlling pollution, and implementing long-term ichthyofaunal monitoring are recommended for the sustainable conservation and management of Chaugada Taal.