Influence of water quality parameters on Opsaridium microlepis catches in the Linthipe River in central Malawi
Abstract
189 words
The dwindling catches of the fish Opsaridium microlepis (locally
called mpasa) from the Linthipe river in Malawi is of great
concern. This is especially so given that the species has
disappeared from some other river systems in Malawi. One of
the reasons for this could be the deteriorating water quality of
the river as a result of farming activities in the river catchment.
This study aimed at assessing the effect of water quality on O.
microlepis catches along the Linthipe river. Fish monthly catches
were very variable and ranged between 0.006-0.611ghr-1, with
the highest catches made in February. Month of the year
influenced water quality, which in turn influenced fish catches.
There were more catches as total suspended solid, increased.
This implies that as the catchment is degraded through farming
activities, the river receives more eroded soil, increased
suspended solids which increase water turbidity and reduce
the visibility of fish for the fishing gear. From this study, it is
recommended that fishing areas and periods on the Linthipe
river be restricted. And that faming activities in the river
catchment be done in such a way to minimise soil erosion.
Subjects
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