
PLoS ONE, Journal Year: 2024, Volume and Issue: 19(9), P. e0310387 - e0310387
Published: Sept. 19, 2024
Endemic fish species have long supported the livelihoods of local communities in Rufiji River Basin (RRB). However, destructive fishing practices led to a concerning decline endemic stocks. To assess these changes, this study employed key informant interviews, focus group discussions (FGDs), and fishery surveys historical contemporary distribution fishes within RRB. DNA barcoding was also used verify identities. Out 37 reported species, 33 (54.55% 45.45% exotic RRB) were confirmed through morphological characteristics. About 5 including, Heterobranchus longifilis , Citharinus congicus Labeo congoro Mormyrus longirostris Labeobarbus leleupanus rarely found field, despite being classified as Least Concern by IUCN. Additionally, five that be present RRB experienced fishers not captured during sampling. This highlights need for validation existence such eDNA metabarcoding. Moreover, due rarity some area, their IUCN assessment should revisited.
Language: Английский