Contemporary Fish Species Diversity in Yankari Game Reserve, Bauchi, Nigeria.

Abstract

Fish species diversity within Yankari Game Reserve was investigated to determine 
the morphological diversity, species richness, and distribution of fishes occurring in 
different water bodies across the Reserve between November and December 2024. 
Fish specimens were collected from 13 sampling locations within Yankari Game 
Reserve using cast nets, gill nets, frame nets, and fish traps. The selection of fishing 
gear at each location was based on the size, accessibility, and physical conditions of 
the respective sampling sites to ensure effective collection of representative 
specimens. All collected fish specimens were subjected to morphological examination 
and identified to species level using standard taxonomic identification methods. 
Species diversity and richness across the sampled water bodies were quantitatively 
evaluated using the Shannon–Wiener and Simpson diversity indices. A total of 28 
fish species belonging to 14 families were identified from the 13 sampling locations, 
demonstrating considerable taxonomic and morphological diversity of the 
ichthyofauna within the Reserve. The overall Shannon–Wiener diversity index was 
2.41, while the Simpson diversity index was 0.11. These diversity indices, together 
with the number of species and families recorded, indicate the presence of a diverse 
fish assemblage within the aquatic ecosystems of Yankari Game Reserve. The 
findings provide important baseline information on fish species composition, 
morphological diversity, and richness that can support future ecological monitoring 
and management of aquatic biodiversity within the Reserve. Considering the diversity 
of fish resources documented during the study, strict conservation measures are 
recommended to protect fish populations and their aquatic habitats and ensure the 
long-term preservation and sustainable management of the diverse fish resources 
available within Yankari Game Reserve.