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.