Fish of the upper yellow river

Abstract

The native fish species of the Upper Yellow River are dominated by schizothoracine fishes of the Cyprinidae (carp family) and nemacheiline fishes of the Cobitidae (loach family). These species have adapted and evolved over millions of years to the highland environment. They play significant roles in the trophic web of freshwater communities. This chapter presents an overview of fish from the Upper Yellow River. The chapter is structured as follows. First, the chapter summarizes the fish diversity and distribution patterns in the Yellow River Source Zone. Second, the fish biology, including growth and body weight, reproduction and morphological adaptations related to feeding habits, is outlined. Third, a summary is provided of the evolutionary history of major fish species and populations, related to tectonic uplift and changes in the configuration of lakes and drainage networks. Fourth, the present conservation status of native fish in the region is described, highlighting the number of endangered species and the main factors associated with the decline of fish diversity and numbers. Finally, management and conservation initiatives are discussed, outlining future prospects for conservation, population recovery and basic biology of native fish in the region.