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Abstract:
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The previous faunistic studies were concentrated.on the taxonomical and zoogeo—
graphical aspects. These studies contributed to many new additions to
the fish fauna of Kerala meanwhile many species described earlier are
reported missing in recent years. Many fish species were collected only
once or twice by scientists. Detailed information on distribution, habitat,
feeding habits, reproduction, population size, etc. are available only with
regard to a very few fish species. A meaningful assessment on the
biodiversity status of the majority of freshwater fishes cannot be done for
want of sufficient data base and therefore, no suitable conservation and
management programmes are forthcoming for the protection and
preservation of the unique fish germplasm resources of Kerala. The
present study was conceptualised and undertaken mostly aiming at
bridging these gaps by generating an authentic data base on the
distribution, resource characteristics and bionomics of the threatened
fishes inhabiting the rivers of Kerala. Osteobrama bakeri (Day) is an endemic fish having a very highly restricted and fragmented distribution in Periyar, Chalakudy, Kabini,
Kallada and Meenachil rivers of Kerala. This belongs to vulnerable
category and is locally known as Mullanpaval which is valued as food
fish. Besides, due to its vibrant and attractive colouration and easiness
for domestication, it has great potential for being propagated as an
ornamental fish. Hitherto, no information is available on the bionomics
and resource characteristics of this species. Studies on detailed life
history traits are indispensable for fishery management, development of
captive breeding technique and implementation of various conservation
programmes. In the present study, a pioneer attempt is also made to
investigate the life history traits, resource characteristics, proximate
composition, etc. of O.baken'. |