INFLUENCE OF PHYSICO-CHEMICAL WATER QUALITY PARAMETERS ON FISH ABUNDANCE IN DUTSIN-MA RESERVOIR

This study investigates the influence of physico-chemical water quality parameters on fish abundance in Dutsin-Ma Reservoir, Katsina State, Nigeria. Data were collected on key water parameters, including temperature, pH, dissolved oxygen, alkalinity, turbidity, and hardness, alongside fish species composition and abundance from February to April. Results showed that temperature (24.87–25.42°C), dissolved oxygen (6.87–7.87 mg/L), and turbidity (29.67–37.92 m) varied slightly across months, with a consistent hardness value (28 mg/L). Fish communities comprised six genera under two families—Cichlidae and Clariidae—with Oreochromis niloticus, Coptodon zillii, and Sarotherodon galilaeus being the most abundant species. Canonical Correspondence Analysis revealed that dissolved oxygen, temperature, turbidity, and alkalinity significantly influenced fish distribution, particularly favoring Coptodon zillii and Clarias gariepinus. Conversely, species like Hemichromis lifalili and Clarias anguillaris showed limited association with the measured variables. The study concludes that slight fluctuations in water quality significantly affect fish abundance and composition, highlighting the need for continuous monitoring and effective water management to sustain fisheries in the reservoir. This research provides valuable insights for policymakers, environmental managers, and local communities involved in aquatic resource conservation.