Freshwater Fishes of Sungai Chantek, Pasir Akar, Besut, Terengganu, Peninsular Malaysia

Abstract

Twenty two species from 12 families of primary freshwater fishes were recorded from Sg. Chantek, Pasik Akar, Besut, Terengganu. Cyprinidae was the most dominant family (27%) with six species followed by Balitoridae with four species (18%). Fish composition was dominated by Poropuntius smedleyi with 140 individuals collected. More fish were collected in the downstream section (LS) (85 individuals) compare to middle (MS) and upper stream (US) sections. Fish species richness for each section range from 12 (US) to 18 (LS) and the differences was between US-LS and MS-LS sections but not with US-MS. LS has more fish species compared to US and MS. It is hypothesized that the presence of different substrate types and microhabitats at LS promotes species richness. Despite of its small size stream, the ichthyofauna found at Sungai Chantek are important and should be kept intact. This study has successfully documented fish diversity at Sg. Chantek. It is suggested that continuous monitoring to be undertaken to ensure species diversity is preserved.