Larval Fish Assemblages in Coastal Waters of Bangladesh: Spatial and Seasonal Dynamics
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The distribution of fish larvae in estuaries is crucial for comprehending the functioning of
these ecosystems and their role as nursery grounds for marine fish species. Data regarding larval fish
assemblages in the coastal waters of Bangladesh are currently scarce. This study examines the spatial
and seasonal dynamics of larval fish communities in these waters using a two-year sampling effort
with a bongo net. This study investigates the diversity, abundance, and distribution of larval fishes at
four sites (Bakkhali River Estuary, Moheshkhalipara, Naf River Estuary, and Rezu Khal Estuary) on the
southeastern coast of Bangladesh. A total of 10,387 fish larvae representing 25 families were identified.
Clupeidae (42.9%), Engraulidae (35.5%), Ambassidae (10.1%), Myctophidae (2.1%), and Gobiidae
(1.9%) were the five most dominant families based on the larval catch composition. Marked seasonal
differences in the larval fish abundance were observed. However, these differences were not observed
when comparing the four sampled sites. Additionally, the correlation between environmental
variables and the larval abundance indicated that salinity negatively influences (p < 0.001) the
larval fish abundance. This is the first comprehensive investigation of larval fish assemblages in the
coastal waters of Bangladesh. The findings of this study enhance our understanding of the nursery
habitat requirements for the early development stages of both migratory and resident species in
subtropical coastal waters, providing valuable information for potential applications in management
and conservation efforts.
Citation
Sk Ahmad-Al-Nahid, Saifuddin Rana, Nargis Sultana, Jannatul Mawa, Sazeed Souhardya, Ilias Kabir, Shahida Shimul, Md Masum Billah, MD Khurshid Bhuiyan, Afsana Dipty, Sk Istiaque Ahmed, Mohammad Rahman, Md Mehedi Iqbal. (11/1/2024). Larval Fish Assemblages in Coastal Waters of Bangladesh: Spatial and Seasonal Dynamics. Conservation, 4 (1), pp. 36-50.
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Author(s) ORCID(s)
Mohammad Jalilur Rahman https://orcid.org/0000-0003-4090-7339
Date available
2024
Type
ISI indexed
Publisher
Multidisciplinary Digital Publishing Institute (MDPI)