Aspects of Biodiversity and Fish Production in The Kukobila Wetland in The Savelugu- Nanton District Of The Northern Region, Ghana

Abstract

This study was conducted to provide baseline data on aspects of biodiversity and fish production in the Kukobila wetland. The objectives were to: identify the major animal and plant species of economic importance to the surrounding communities; identify fishing gears used and (iii) assess fish species diversity and production. Information on biodiversity was obtained through personal observation, transect walk, use of pair of binoculars and literature materials. Fish production figures were obtained by weighing daily catches of five fishermen operating in the wetland, during the dry season and in the wet season. The results indicate that Kukobila wetland has high diversity of animal and plant species that are exploited for various purposes by the local communities. Five types of fishing gears were used for exploiting the fishery resources of the wetland. Twenty-three (23) fish species belonging to nineteen (19) families were encountered. Fish production was significantly higher during the dry season (75 000 kg) than in the wet season (45 000 kg). The high diversity probably reflects high tourism potential of the wetland.