Ichthyofaunal Diversity at The Junction Between River Swat and River Panjkora in Bosaq: A Health Perspective

Abstract

This study was conducted at the Government Degree College in Batkhela, District Malakand, focused on exploring and documenting the fish species in the Swat River, a crucial waterway in the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa region of Pakistan.

Six different fish species were collected from the Swat River, representing families such as Channidae, Cyprinidae, and Bagridae, including Channa punctata, Schizothorax spp, Cirhinus molitorella, Eurasian Carp (Cyprinus carpio) and Rita rita. These species were preserved using freezing and drying methods to ensure the integrity of the samples. Identification was carried out with the aid of scientific literature and expert guidance, ensuring accurate classification. The results identified six distinct species, reflecting the river's rich biodiversity and providing a baseline for future ecological monitoring. For instance, Channa punctata demonstrated adaptability in its diet and habitat, while Schizothorax spp highlighted the river's ability to support highland fish species. This study represents a comprehensive effort to document and understand the fish species of the Swat River, emphasizing the river’s ecological importance and the need for ongoing conservation efforts. The methodologies employed, from collection to identification, were rigorous and thorough, ensuring that the findings are both accurate and meaningful for future research and environmental management.