The Rufiji River basin in Tanzania is home to a variety of aquatic species, including several species of catfish. Bagrid catfish “family Bagridae” are among the catfish species found in this region. The Bagridae family is diverse, and different species within this family may inhabit various types of aquatic environments, such as rivers, lakes, and swamps. The Rufiji River basin is one of the major river systems in Tanzania, and it plays a crucial role in the ecological balance of the region. The presence of diverse aquatic species contributes to the biodiversity and overall health of the ecosystem.
The Bagrid catfish “Bagrus orientalis”, historically sustained communities in the Rufiji River basin, Tanzania, but has rapidly declined due to high consumer demand and unsustainable fishing. Consequently, a Ramsar site was designated within the Rufiji River Basin, although its potential to revitalize overexploited populations beyond its boundaries is uncertain because of limited information on genetic connectivity.
To address this uncertainty, cytochrome oxidase subunit I sequences of Bagrus orientalis were analyzed to quantify genetic connectivity in the Rufiji River Basin. Scientists from the Department of Animal, Aquaculture, and Range Sciences and the Department of Biosciences observed significant genetic differentiation, indicating limited connectivity among populations. Populations in the Ramsar site were genetically connected to those in the Kilombero Valley Floodplain, but were distinct from those in Ruaha and Rufiji, which clustered separately.
Our findings suggested the Ramsar site could revitalize overexploited Kilombero Valley Floodplain populations, and emphasized the need for sustained efforts against its encroachment. However, limited genetic connectivity with Ruaha and Rufiji implied that conservation measures at the site might have restricted effects in these areas.
Conservation efforts should extend beyond the Ramsar site, by promoting sustainable fishing and enhancing habitat connectivity in Ruaha and Rufiji. Involving local communities in the conservation process is crucial for the long-term success of these efforts, as they often play a central role in the sustainable use and management of natural resources in their surroundings.
Further information:
Saiperaki J.L., Materu, S.F., Mkenda, P.A., Ligate, E.J. and Rumisha, C. (2024). Restricted genetic connectivity and conservation prospects of Bagrid catfish “Bagrus orientalis” populations in the Rufiji River basin, Tanzania. Fisheries Management and Ecology. DOI: 10.1111/fme.12686
The Department of Animal, Aquaculture, and Range Sciences
The College of Agriculture, Sokoine University of Agriculture
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