Exploring Freshwater Fish Diversity from Kuno River, Sheopur District of Madhya Pradesh, Central India

Abstract

Fish diversity and its conservation are major considerations for the sustainable use of aquatic natural resources. Fish also contribute substantially to food security and the national economy. This study prepared a systematic checklist of the fish fauna of the Kuno River and other water bodies within Kuno-Palpur National Park, Sheopur district, Madhya Pradesh. Surveys were conducted from September to December 2023. Fish were collected at different sampling sites using cast nets, drag nets, and kick nets. Species identified in the field were recorded on data sheets, photographed, and immediately released. Unidentified specimens were retained as vouchers, euthanised, and preserved in 70% ethanol. A total of 69 fish species belonging to 40 genera, 22 families, and 10 orders were recorded. Cypriniformes showed the highest diversity, with 35 species (50.72%) across five families, followed by Siluriformes, with 15 species (21.74%) across six families. Cyprinidae was the most species-rich family, with 22 species (31.88%), followed by Danionidae with eight (11.59%), Bagridae with seven (10.14%), and Channidae with four (5.80%). The assemblage comprised 57 Least Concern, six Near Threatened, four Not Evaluated, and two Vulnerable species according to the IUCN categories. The Kuno River fish fauna includes commercially important food and ornamental fishes, as well as exotic and widely distributed species.