Multivariate analysis of ichthyofaunal diversity in the Kasaraiya Dhar Wetland, Bihar, India

Kasaraiya Dhar is a perennial wetland located in Khagaria District of Bihar, at 25.492937˚N and 86.619178˚E. Spanning over 100 ha, it was formed as a result of meandering of the Budhi Gandak River. In the present investigation, the ichthyofaunal diversity and water quality parameters of Kasariya Wetland were assessed during 2021-23. Water quality parameters such as water temperature, pH, dissolve oxygen, (DO), alkalinity, hardness, nitrite, ammonium ion, phosphate, electric conductivity (EC), total dissolved solid (TDS), gross primary productivity (GPP) and net primary productivity (NPP) were assessed. A total of 58 finfish, 2 prawn and three mollusc species belonging to 26 families and 14 orders were identified. The family Cyprinidae contributes maximum species diversity (20 species) followed by the family Mastacembelidae and the Bagridae. The Pielou’s Evenness Index, Shannon-Weiner diversity index and Simpson index of Kasaraiya Dhar wetland indicated high fish diversity with evenly distributed fish in all three seasons viz. pre-monsoon, monsoon and post-monsoon. The findings of the present study provide baseline information on the wetland, which will be highly valuable for ecosystem-based wetland fisheries management.