Fishing activities and fish species diversity assessment in Eleiyele Lake, Ibadan, Nigeria

The study was carried out for 12 months during which the fishermen catches were monitored and fishing activities were assessed in Eleiyele Lake, Ibadan. The fish species at landing sites on the lake were identified using morphometric and meristic features. Fish species composition recorded in Eleiyele reservor in this study belong to 5 families: Cichlidae, Centropomide, Hepsetidae, Gymnachidae and Bagridae. The relative abundance assessment revealed Tilapia zillii and Sarotherodon galilaeus as dominant species. The Standard Length and Somatic Weight measurements of the two dominant species showed the size range of 10.0cm-28.0cm and 12.5cm-33.0cm, 50.0g-800g and 50.0g-1150.0g respectively. The fishing activities in the reservoir revealed that the gears being used are predominantly gill and cast nets. It was noted that there was a decline of fish species composition in the lake over time. It is recommended that stringent enforcement of fishing laws and regulations be adopted for sustainable management of fisheries in the reservoir. (Af. J. of Livestock Extension: 2003 2: 72-74