Fish Diversity as a Health Indicator of Freshwater Habitats: A Review
Author : SM Yeole
Abstract :
Fish diversity is a widely recognized bioindicator of freshwater ecosystem health due to its sensitivity to environmental change and ecological relevance. This review synthesizes current knowledge on the relationship between fish community structure and environmental quality in freshwater habitats. We explore how metrics such as species richness, abundance, and assemblage composition reflect anthropogenic pressures including pollution, habitat modification, and climate change. The review also examines commonly used fish-based indices, such as the Index of Biotic Integrity, and emerging methodologies including environmental DNA (eDNA) and remote sensing. Key challenges in applying fish as bioindicators—such as taxonomic uncertainty, sampling biases, and data gaps—are discussed. We conclude with recommendations to enhance monitoring programs through standardized protocols, technological integration, and cross-disciplinary approaches for more robust biodiversity assessment.
Keywords :
Fish diversity, freshwater habitats, health indicators.
