Fish diversity and environmental drivers in two communities-dependent reservoirs in the semi-arid zone (Burkina Faso)
- International Journal of Fisheries and Aquaculture , 17 (2) : 65-75
Résumé
Small reservoirs are vital to local communities, providing food resources such as fish and other ecosystem services. However, the lack of data on fish diversity, dynamics, and structure in these reservoirs limits decision-makers' ability to formulate effective management strategies. This study aimed to determine the taxonomic composition of fish in Bidiga and Ladwenda reservoirs, located in the Centre-Est region of Burkina Faso, and explore the relationship between fish abundance and environmental conditions. In each reservoir, key physico-chemical parameters, including temperature, pH, electrical conductivity, total dissolved solids, water transparency, and water level, were measured in situ using specialized instruments. Fish were sampled monthly from May 2018 to January 2019 using cast nets operated by a local fisherman. Harvested specimens were identified, measured, and preserved for further analysis. A total of 13 fish species were recorded across both reservoirs (11 in Bidiga and 9 in Ladwenda). Enteromius macrops was the most abundant and frequent species in both reservoirs, indicating strong adaptability to different environments. Diversity indices showed seasonal fluctuations, suggesting an influence of seasonal hydrological changes on fish communities. Some species exhibited narrow environmental preferences. This study characterized fish diversity and its relationship with environmental variables, providing baseline data useful for aquatic ecosystem monitoring and management in similar reservoirs in Burkina Faso.
Mots-clés
Freshwater, management, diversity, fish, environmental conditions