Distributions of the endemic and threatened freshwater fish depik, Rasbora tawarensis Weber & de Beaufort, 1916 in Lake Laut Tawar, Aceh Province, Indonesia

Abstract

Depik fish, Rasbora tawarensis is an endemic and threatened species in Lake Laut Tawar (Central Aceh, Indonesia),and the population of depik has been decreased drastically over the last two decades. Information about distribution patternsis crucially needed in relation to plan better conservation strategies. Hence, the objective of present study was to evaluate thedistribution patterns (spatial and seasonal distribution) based on catch per unit efforts and fish abundance data. Stratifiedrandom sampling was utilized in this study. Two fishing grounds were selected based on information from local fishermen,and a total of 14 fishing sites (seven sites per fishing ground) were determined randomly. Sampling was conducted in differentseasons; dry and wet season. The Rasbora tawarensis is widespread in the lake but most abundant in shallow waters andthe near shore, however, the size is small on average for this area. In contrast, bigger fish was found in deep waters offshore,but with lower abundance. In conclusion, the distribution of depik is not seasonally dependent, but more spatially.

Keywords

• CPUE
• abundancep
• conservation
• depth
• Takengon