Development potential of native fish in Batang Toru Watershed, North Sumatra, Indonesia: discussion on the impact of dam development and aquaculture efforts

Abstract

As one of the sizable rivers in the Sumatra region, the Batang Toru River is a habitat for various fish species, some of which are potential to be developed as cultured fish. This study was carried out in April, July, and October 2019 in the Batang Toru River watershed of South Tapanuli Regency, North Sumatra, to evaluate a potential development of the riverine fish for aquaculture development. The methods used were fisheries surveys and discussions with various communities and related agencies in the South Tapanuli Regency. The data obtained were presented descriptively. Based on the result of data analysis collected in the field, there were several potential fish species to be cultured in this study, including mahseer (Tor tambroides, T. tambra, Neolissochilus soro), catfish (Hemibagrus spp.), and eel (Anguilla bicolor). Some people in the area have also developed the culture of several fish species, such as mahseer and catfish. However, there has been no eel rearing until now, although some locations around the Batang Toru River are suitable for freshwater fish aquaculture activities.