Exploring Integrated Ecosystem-based Approach (EbA) in Kaptai Lake Freshwater Fish Biodiversity, Rangamati, Bangladesh

Abstract

In recent decades, declining fish biodiversity in Kaptai Lake has been a great concern. Research found that the major carp including rohu (Labeo rohita), catla (Catla catla), mrigal (Cirrhinus mrigala) species have been declining whereas small indigenous fishes chapila (Gudusia chapra) and keski (Corica soborna) have been increasing at a fast rate. The study aims to explore an Integrated Ecosystem based Approach (EbA) on the key issues of declining fish biodiversity in Kaptai Lake. Based on using mix method, the study has found the key issues of declining fish species in relation to its surrounding environment and also explored how Integrated EbA would be an effective solution for this problem. From the study, physico-chemical parameters of lake water seem habitable for the fish species. On the other hand, analysis of the Key Informant Interview, Focus Group Discussion and observation demonstrated that human interventions such as overexploitation, improper waste management (both in upstream and basin areas), siltation due to widespread Jhum cultivation and using pesticides in the cultivation all those have been creating the lake uninhabitable for the fish species. The result indicates that lack of awareness, lack of effective policies, lack of existing policies implementation, less coordination among institutions, different stakeholders and with fishers and local people are the issues that driving the other barriers of the development of fish species. On the basis, it is recommended that EbA will help to ensure the diversity of fish species in Kaptai Lake through an integrated approach. This approach will integrate all the parts of the ecosystem including land use, water to conserve the fish species. More importantly, this will also integrate the contribution of all institutions and stakeholders in an organized way and through active community participation (including local people, fishers). Considering the small sample size of the study, further research is needed on EbA in the fisheries management sector of Kaptai Lake.