Ichthyofaunal Diversity And Population Status Of Major Fish Species In Sarki Lawagahr Dam, District Karak, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Pakistan

Abstract

Aim of our research work is concerned on biodiversity of fishes of Sarki lawagahr dam of district Karak. A total of 68 Fish samples were collected from Sarki lawagar dam of district Karak Khyber Pakhtunkhwa with the of local fishermen. By using different types of tools like hand net, cast net and hooks from August 2022 to January 2023. All the fishes were brought to laboratory of Government Degree College Takht e-nasrati Karak. Then each fish was identified up to specie level. Identification of the species was made on the basis of their color pattern, specific spots or marks on the surface of the body, shape of the body, structure of various fins etc. A total of 7 species were reported during the period, which were belonged to the same class (Actinopterygii), same order (Cypriniformes) and same family (Cyprinidae) and seven genera. The species which are found in Sarki Lawagahr dam during the present study are, Labeo rohita, Hypophthalmichthys molitrix, Cirrhinus cirrhosus, Hypophthalmichthys nobilis, Puntius ticto, Cyprinus carpio and Ctenopharyngodon idella. Out of total 78 fish samples, most abundant fish species was L. rohita (19 samples) followed by H. molitrix (16 samples) and C. cirrhosus (14). Puntius ticto was represented by 09 samples, Hypophthalmichthys nobilis represented by 07 samples, Cyprinus carpio represented by 02 samples and Ctenopharyngodon idella was represented by only one sample. The present study concludes that the Sarki lawagahr dam district Karak, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa is favorable for fish Cyprinidae family. Hence, the present study will provide useful information about the diversity of fish fauna of Sarki Lawagahr dam district karak and it will be later important in taxonomic, fisheries management and conservation