Cold water fish diversity and their conservation status in Teesta,Jaldhak, Torsa, Kaljani and Sankosh Rivers of the Dooars region, West Bengal, India

Abstract

A survey was conducted on the cold water fish diversity in the different rivers of the Dooars region with the help of fisherman. Data was collected on the monthly basis by using different nets. A total of 71 cold water fishes were reported during the study period. Most dominant family was cyprinidae with 32 species followed by Sisoridae with 12 species; Balitoridae 8 and Bagridae with 4 species etc. 70 cold water fish species in the river Teesta, 63 in Jaldhaka, 66 in Torsa, 61 in Kaljani and 66 in the river Sankosh were recorded. Ten Endangered and 31 Vulnerable species were reported from all the five rivers. Out of 71 cold water fishes many have consumption and ornamental value. Many migratory and sport cold water fishes are also reported. Catch frequency status indicates many fishes found rare and extremely rare during the study.