The ecology of the riverine Garra species (Teleostei, Cypriniformes) in reservoirs of the semi-arid highlands of northern Ethiopia: temporal dynamics of feeding activity

M. Teferi, S.A.J. Declerck, T. De Bie, A. Gebrekidan, J. Snoeks, T. Asmelash, T. Dejenie, H. Bauer, J.A. Deckers, L. De Meester

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Abstract

Garra species are among the most abundant fish in small rivers of northern Ethiopia. Many manmade reservoirs in the region have been colonized by Garra, which often are the only fish species present and have become very abundant. Little is known about the ecology of these reservoir populations of riverine species. In this study we investigated the distribution patterns and gut fullness of 2 dominant species, G. blanfordii and G. geba, in 3 recently created reservoirs (Gereb Awso, Tsinkanet, and Mai Gassa I) in Tigray, northern Ethiopia. Species composition differed among reservoirs. Our data on fish catch densities and the fullness of the foregut suggest that the ecology of the Garra populations in the reservoirs is likely influenced by the avoidance of predation by birds. G. blanfordii, and to a lesser extent G. geba, foraged most actively after sunset.
Original languageEnglish
Pages (from-to)331-340
JournalInland Waters
Volume3
Issue number3
DOIs
Publication statusPublished - 2013

Keywords

  • international

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