Freshwater Biodiversity of Tripura: An Assessment of Fish Diversity in Kurti Beel and Dumbur Lake

Author

KAUSHIK DEBNATH


Abstract

Freshwater ecosystems are among the most biologically diverse and productive environments on Earth, providing essential ecological services and supportingawide range of aquatic organisms. In the north-eastern state of Tripura, Kurti Beel and Dumbur Lake are ecologically significant freshwater wetlands that sustaindiverse fish populations and contribute substantially to the livelihoods of local communities. These wetlands provide suitable habitats for indigenous fish species, aquatic vegetation, migratory birds, amphibians, reptiles, and numerous aquatic invertebrates. However, increasing anthropogenic activities, including habitat degradation, water pollution, overfishing, invasive species, and climate change, have adversely affected their ecological health and fish diversity. This study assesses the fish diversity of Kurti Beel and Dumbur Lake through a review of available scientific literature, government reports, and biodiversityrecords. The paper highlights the ecological importance of these wetlands, identifies major fish species, examines existing threats, and discusses conservationstrategies for sustainable management. The study emphasizes the need for continuous biodiversity monitoring, habitat restoration, community participation, andeffective implementation of conservation policies to ensure the long-term sustainability of freshwater ecosystems in Tripura.


Keywords

Freshwater biodiversity, Fish diversity, Kurti Beel, Dumbur Lake, Tripura, Wetlands, Conservation, Indigenous fish.



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References


 

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