Mangrove fish abundance and diversity in Kuching Wetlands National Park

Abstract

Mangrove fishes at Kuching Wetlands National Park (KWNP) in western Sarawak, were sampled at five stations using a cast net 3/4" mesh size and 9' in length in September and December 2006, representing non-monsoon and monsoon season respectively. A total of 20 families and 31 species were recorded for the entire study with non-monsoon season having a higher catch. Chandidae and Mugilidae were the two most abundant families during both seasons. Fish caught in December varies more compared to those caught in September. Shannon-Weiner diversity indices ranged from 1.5 - 2.1 (non-monsoon) as compared to 1.2 - 1.6 (monsoon) for the five stations. More than 50% of the species caught were juveniles. Out of the 31 species, six were identified to be of commercial value. This might show that KWNP is a nursery ground for some commercial marine fishes. Comparison between the local fish landings and the results of the study revealed the season has an influence on fish composition in KWNP. Further researches are needed in order to better understand KWNP as a feeding and breeding ground for fishes.