Insights into the fish biodiversity and fishing practices in Shanir Haor of Bangladesh

Abstract

Despite Bangladesh's attempt to safeguard natural water bodies and wetlands, the loss of aquatic biodiversity is becoming an alarming issue. As a key habitat and breeding ground for inland freshwater fish, Shanir Haor in Bangladesh's north-eastern zone harbors a wide variety of fish species. Recent trends in biodiversity loss have emphasized the indispensable need for comprehensive biodiversity research, which is necessary for evaluating the haor ecosystem's present status and assuring its long-term management. The study intends to portray the present scenario of fish biodiversity and fishing practices in the Shanir Haor ecosystem. A total of 78 fish species were found in the study area, with 26 species commonly available, 22 species moderately available, 22 species rarely available, and 8 species very rarely available. The study identified a variety of natural and anthropogenic factors responsible for decline of fish biodiversity. The research will serve as a baseline for future biodiversity conservation and management in Shanir Haor.