Ichthyofauna of Düzce Province (Turkey): Population and Habitat Evaluation

Abstract

This study aimed to analyze the distribution, endemism-conservation status, habitat features of inland water fish species and some threats in Düzce inland water systems. Fish samples were collected using electrofishing equipment, gill nets, fyke nets, and cast nets between April-October 2016. We have identified 17 fish taxa belonging to 9 families (Salmonidae (1 taxa), Acheilognothidae (1 taxa), Cyprinidae (2 taxa), Gobionidae (1 taxa), Leuciscidae (7 taxa), Tincidae (1 taxa), Cobitidae (1 taxa), Percidae (1 taxa), Gobiidae (2 taxa)). As a result of field observations conducted in Düzce province inland water, we determined 4 endemic (Gobio baliki, Squalius pursakensis, Alburnoides coskuncelebii and Cobitis splendens) and 2 invasive species (Carassius gibelio, Oncorhynchus mykiss). Endemic species were observed in narrow areas and small populations. Fish fauna and habitats were observed to be under the influence of drying, water and sand extraction, dam and pond building, pollution, mining and invasive species pressure.