nanga merit fishes assemblages and them feeding … merit fishes assemblages and their...
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NANGA MERIT FISHES ASSEMBLAGES AND THEm FEEDING BEHAVIORS
Farah Adibah Esa
Bachelor of Science with Honours QL (Aquatic Resource Science and Management) 624 2010F219 2010
J Borang Pcngcsahan Laporan Projck PCllyclidikan Tahun Akhir ~ (STF3014) ~
fakulti Sains dan Teknologi Sumber Universiti Malaysia Sarawak
-A-(( IMtf ~ _______ _____ ____~_ _ _ _ (nama) no pelajar
_ ____ mengaku tdah membuat perubahan yang perlu tidak ada
terhadap
MIi-RJ-
Vl~ bull
Laporan P-t~
Projek Penyelidikan yang bertaj uk ~~-M~~ A-ll) t1tslR ~I
ini saya sertakan 3 salinan hardcopy dan 1 salinan softcopy Laporan Projek
Tandatangan Pelajar Tandatangan Penyelia
f (~ M~JtH )
~
~ ssan rusan Sumbor A~ua
Ptt~ Prosram abatan SainS Akuallk
FBulti Sainsdan Teknologi 5umblt~r _ pocang yang lidak berkailan UNIVERSl11 MALAYSIA SARAWAK
94300 Kola Si IItllO
rasmi)
CNama amp
Pusat KJllOlli~ ld middot l 0 UNTVERSITI MALAYSlA SARA~AK
Nanga Merit Fishes Assemblages and Their Feeding Behaviors
Farah Adibah Esa
This project is submitted in partial fulfillment of the requirements for the
Degree of Bachelor of Science with Honours
(Department of Aquatic Science)
Faculty of Resource Science and Technology
UNIVERSITI MALAYSIA SARA W AK
2010
I
I
DECLARATION
I hereby declare that thesis is based on my original work except for quotation and citation
which have been acknowledged I also declare that it has not previously or concurrently
submitted for any other degree at UNIMAS or other institutions
()
~
Farah Adibah Esa
Aquatic Resource Science and Management
Department of Aquatic Science
Faculty of Resource Science and Technology
Universiti Malaysia Sarawak
ACKNOWLEDGEMENT
With the name of Allah the Almighty with His blessing and thoughtfulness finally I have
completed my final year project
I would like to extend my heartfelt gratitude to my supervisor Dr Ruhana Hassan
for her invaluable advice and untiring assist in preparation of this research I would like to
express my appreciation to Mr Zaidi bin Ibrahim Mr Zulkifli bin Ahmad Mr Nazri bin
Latip Mr Richard Toh and Mr Haris Norman Mustafa Kamal bin Mohd Faizal for
their help during the making of this final year project I also wish to express my sincere
appreaciation to Mohd Nasarudin Harith for his willingness to help and guide in
completing this research on time
With love and care I would like to thank my father Esa Mustaffa and my mother
Lillinoor Abdullah for their undying advice and support during my hardest moment I
would also like to express my gratefulness to Nazarudin bin lahidin for his continuous
moral support and encouragement for my final year project Last but not least I am
thankful to my coursemates Umi Salbiah Hussin Nurhanan Atiq Haron and Nur Amalina
Ahmad Rizal for their help and assistance Thank you to any individual that involved
direct or indirectly in the making of this final year project report
PUScU Alil~ l ~ A ll1fl UNIVERSITI MALAYSIA SARAWAi
TABLE OF CONTENTS
ACKNOWLEDGEMENT
TABLE OF CONTENT II
LIST OF TABLES AND FIGURES III
ABSTRACT v
10 INTRODUCTION amp OBJECTIVE
20 LITERATURE REVIEW 3
21 Freshwater Fish Composition 3
211 Freshwater Fish Composition in Peninsular Malaysia 3
212 Freshwater Fish Composition in Sarawak 4
22 Feeding Behaviors of Fish 5
23 Fish Dietary Analysis 6
30 MATERIALS AND METHODS 8
31 Study Area 8
32 Fish Sampling 8
33 Laboratory Analysis 10
331 Fish Diet Analysis 10
332 Gut Content Analysis 10
34 Data Analysis for Fish Composition 12
40 RESULTS AND DISCUSSION 13
41 Fish Assemblages 13
42 Diversity Indices 20
43 Feeding Behavior 22
50 CONCLUSION 31
60 REFERENCES 32
70 APPENDIXES 39
II
UST OF TABLES
Table 1
Table 2
Table 3
Table 4
Table 5
Table 6
Table 7
Table 8
Table 9
Table 10
Fish fauna distribution according to speCIes and stations in Nanga Merit Kapit
17
List of fish species found at each station with range values of the measurements according to the total number of species caught (N) standard length (SL) total length (TL) wet weight (WT) and standard deviation (SO) of samples collected from Nanga Merit Kapit (Mean plusmn SO)
18
H D and J values according to stations 21
Summary of feeding behavior of freshwater fish caught at Nanga Merit area
22
The food composition (Cn) for the 15 selected fish species at Nanga Merit
23
Food composition (Cn) and frequency of occurrence (F) of insect 26 and invertebrates identified
Food composition (Cn) and frequency of occurrence diatom identified
Food composition (Cn) and frequency of occurrence algae identified
Food composition (Cn) and frequency of occurrence unidentified items
Details description on the sampling sites
(F) of the 27
(F) of the 28
(F) of the 29
43
III
I
I
LIST OF FIGURES
Figure 1
Figure 2
Location of the sampling sites involved in this study
Percentage of freshwater fish based on Family obtained during this project
9
13
IV
~----------------------------------------
NANGA MERIT FISHES ASSEMBLAGES AND THEIR FEEDING BEHAVIORS
Farah Adibah Esa
Department of Aquatic Science
Faculty of Resource Science and Technology
Universiti Malaysia Sarawak
ABSTRACT
This study was conducted to identify the diversity of freshwater fish and their teeding behavior in Nanga Merit A total
of 106 individuals comprising 15 families belonging to 5 families and II genera were caught Cyprinidae and Siluridae
were identified to be the dominant family representing 604 and 226 respectively The commonly caught individuals
wcr from the genera Cyclocheichillys (236) Rasbora (142) and Bmbodrs (123) Low number of individuals
was obtained during this study most probably due to the effects of poisoning (commercial pesticides and tuba sap) and
the low water level during dry season There three main feeding behavior of fish in Nanga Merit namely carnivore
herbivore and omnivore Based on the diet analysis the major types consumed are diatoms algae and invertebrates
lwonns nematodes copepod rotifer and larvae chironomid) Data obtained during this project serves as baseline data for
freshwater fish in Sarawak
Keyword Cyprinidae freshwater fish feeding behavior Nanga Mrit
K(1jian in lelall dijalankan bag mengenalpasl kepelbagaian kOlllllili ikan air lawar dan labial pelllakanan di Nanga
Meril DlIa jenis penangkapan ikan lelali diglln(lnkan iailu pukal hanYIII dan jala Sebanyak 106 individual lereliri
duripada 5 jamiii dan II genera lelall dilangkap Cyprinidae dan Siluridae didaplli mendoll1inasi kawasan Nanga Meril
dun Ifasillg-111asing l11ewakili 604 dan 226 Ikan yang lebih kerap dilangkap lerdiri daripada genlls
Cyclocheicllyhys (236) Rasbora (42) dan Bbodes (23) lIInlali individllal yang rendah dilangkap
berilllmllngkinan kerana kesan racln (peslisida dan IIba sub) dan paras air yang rendaft kerana 11111sim kering TOdapal
liga kllmpllall labial pell1akallan iailll kallivor herbivor dln omnivor Berdaslrkan ana lisa diel makalan IIlalla yang
dinakan adalaft dialom alga dan illverlcbrale (Ullll nonalode kopepoda rOlifer dan larvae cliirolollid) Dala yang
dipero lelri di dalam projck ini adalcdl sebagai garispanduan dallillUk ikon air I war di Sarallak
Kata Kunci Cyprinidae ikan air tawar tabiat pemakanan Nanga Merit
v
CHAPTER I
10 Introduction
In Malaysia freshwater fish is the source of livelihood and is the main protein
source for many rural communities and its consumption is widespread Freshwater fish
distributions cover lenthic and lotic environment and inhabit a great variety of habitats
ranging from small torrential streams to estuarine (Mohsin amp Ambak 1983) Freshwater
fishes are found only in a specific type of habitat and its salinity is the critical factor that
separates freshwater species from marine (Atack 2006)
Studies on fish fauna had been carried out in Penang (Alfred 1963) Nouthern
Selangor peat swamp forest (Davies amp Abdullah 1989) Sayap-Kinabalu Park (Nyanti
1998) Kelabit Highlands (Nyanti et at 1999) Crocker Range Park (Khairul Adha et at
2002) North Park peat swamp forest (Shah et at 2006) and Ulu Tungud Mehau Range at
Sandakan (Amirrudin et at 2006) In Sarawak studies on fish fauna had been carried out
for Gunung Mulu National Park Bau Limestone region and Baram (Atack 2006)
The freshwater fish fauna of Peninsular Malaysia is highly diverse Zakaria-Ismail
(1992) estimated that there are approximately 300 species of freshwater fishes in Malaysia
He listed 259 speceis of native freshwater fishes in Peninsular Malaysia Most of the fish
species diversity occurs in the tropical area (Kottelat et aI 1993) Mohsin and Ambak
(1983) listed a total of382 species of freshwater fish representing 56 familes in Peninsular
Malaysia For East Malaysia study on freshwater fish was by Inger and Chin (1990) in
North Borneo
Like all other vertebrates fishes are conventionally grouped as carnovires omnivores
an herbivore on the basis of their food habit They may also be grouped as filter-feeders
detritus-feeders or as predators However most fish can adapt their diet to the available
1
food supply The study on diet and feeding habit is necessary for understanding the
strategy of digestion and the digestive strategy of fish can truly reflects its food habit in
terms of resource utilization (Chakrabarti et al 1995) Other than that the diet analysis
also important for the studies of predation competition trophic level and food web
Nanga Merit is situated in Sarawak Malaysia Its geographical coordinates are 2deg
IT O North 113 deg8 0 East It is located at Kapit division and the people in the area have
been bearing their daily routines with wet padi cultivation Fisheries activities in Nanga
Merit area are carried out in small scale basis either to generate extra income or for
domestic consumption
There are several studies on freshwater fish in Sarawak for example Nyanti et al
(1 999) Lee (2004) Sipin (2005) Atack (2006) and Khairul Adha et al (2009) However
there is no proper documentation on freshwater fish in Nanga Merit Therefore this study
aims to identify the diversity of freshwater fish at Nanga Merit area In addition this study
also aims to detennine feeding behaviors of freshwater fish caught in Nanga Merit Data
obtained in this study will serve as baseline data of freshwater fish in Sarawak
2
CHAPTER II
20 Literature Review
21Freshwater fish composition
211 Freshwater fish composition in Peninsular Malaysia
Mohsin and Ambak (1983) divided Peninsular Malaysia into three main divisions
in based from the view of fish geography and their distribution North-West division
North-East and Central division and Southern division The North-West division has the
least number of fish species compared to the other two divisions due to paddy cultivation
and few rivers have dried up
The largest among the three divisions is North-East and Central division and is
bound by Kedah-Singgora north Rompin to Pahang in the south There are many manshy
made lakes and only one natural lake in Malaysia which is Tasik Chini There are a few
scattered freshwater swamp such as Tasek Bendera In consequence of the many water
bodies present in this divisions it is expected to have greatest abundance of fish fauna
Southern division is mostly dominated by Rasbora spp and the rivers in this division are
slow moving (Mohsin amp Ambak 1983)
According to Mohsin and Ambak (1983) rivers can be divided into zones upper
middle and lower zone The upper zone has a high current velocity high concentration a
sandy bed and a small volume of water carrying The fish fauna commonly found in this
zone are Rasbora sumatrana R elegans Puntius binotatus Luciosoma setigerum and
omaloptera orthogoniata The middle zone has the most fish fauna The lower zone is
the most polluted zone with very high silt loads and its flow rate is influenced by tides
3
212 Freshwater fish composition in Sarawak
Borneo is one of the most diversity areas of the world with many species being
endemic which is found only at a precise location either to the island or to the region
(Atack 2006) The distribution of fishes on Borneo offers a clue to distinguish old and
new elements of fish occurring in the Sunda area (Taki 1975) Atack (2006) stated that
Sarawak of254 freshwater fishes Sarawak River is complex therefore it supports a mix of
freshwater and estuarine species but mostly consists of freshwater species around
Kampung Paroh area
Sarawak River is relatively large river with two tributaries that run through the Bau
limestone region which are Sarawak Kiri and Sarawak Kanan The Kuching Barrage
functions as to control the Sarawak River maintaining a stable water level at the
waterfront and preventing saltwater contamination to water supply by changes of salinity
daily due to flushing of large influx of saltwater This periodic flushing will lead to a
mixed population of freshwater and saltwater fish species upstream of the Barrage (Atack
2006)
According to Nyanti et at (1999) Tor spp would seek shelter in tributaries which
have clear water and relatively low current velocity Sarawaks inland fisheries include a
number of highly valued species such as the cyprinid family locally known as Empurau
and Semah Species other than carp such as Tapah (Wallago sp) and herring locally
known as Terubok (Tenualosa sp) found to have commercial values to the local
community Tor tambroides (Empurau) is a large herbivorous carp that can be found in
clear rocky streams in the upland forest It was once found in most Sarawaks major river
su as Rejang Baram Limbang and the Ai These species are threatened by activities
such as overfishing and habitat degradation (Atack 2006)
4
Pusat Khidmat Maldumat Akademik UNIVERSITI MALAYSIA SABAWAK
22 Feeding Behaviour of Fish
The study of feeding ecology is a essential tool to understand fish roles within their
ecosystems (Hajisamaea et ai 2003) In the same time study of the food and feeding
behavior of freshwater fish is a matter of continuous research since it the basis for
development of a successful fisheries management programme on fish capture and culture
From its food a fish must obtain both macro- and micronutrients (Halver 1989) The range
of potential foods that are available reflects the physical environment The range taken by
a species depends on its ability to detect acquire and process the food (Wootton 1992)
Habitat type is also a significant aspect which influences the feeding approach of a species
by determining foraging opportunities Fishes tend to prefer habitat which has less prey
and capturing of abundant food (Hajisamaea et ai 2003)
Mohsin and Ambak (1983) classified fishes into three main categories which are
herbivore carnivore and omnivore Most of the Malaysia fishes are omnivorous Puntius
gonnionotus Mystus nemurus M villatus Clarias spp Tor tambroides and Chonerhinus
modestus are some of the example The second largest group of fishes is carnivorous that
feed on other animals such as benthic organisms invertebrates crustaceans other fishes
followed by herbivores which eats aquatic plants small or big algae fruits and vegetation
that have dropped into the water (Atack 2006) Many species of fish that live in the
surface waters of the sea feed on plankton which is both zooplankton and phytoplankton
and it can be describe as p1anktivores (Atack 2006)
Based on detail analysis of gut contents it can be concluded that terrestrial insects
and plants are among the majority of food types eaten by freshwater fish in Peninsular
Malaysia (Mohsin amp Ambak 1983) Data on different food items consumed by fish may
e rually result in identification of stable food preference and in creation of trophic
5
models as a tool to understand complex ecosystems (Lopez-Peralta et at 2002 Bachok et
at 2004)
Fish feeding activity is controlled by environments behavior and physiology Fish
diets varies according to area prey availability season time of day and fish size Bhuiyan
et ai (2006) states that the utilization of food and rate of digestion is also influence by the
quality and quantity of available food organisms In general most of a fishs diet consists
ofbenthic invertebrates often supplemented by terrestrial invertebrates
Studies on natural feeding of fish permit to identify the trophic feeding
composition structure and stability of food webs relationships present in aquatic
ecosystems identifying In the same time the study of food and feeding habits of
freshwater fish species is a subject of continuous research because it constituted the basis
for the development of a successful fisheries management program on fish capture and
culture (Oronsaye et ai 2005) Studies on diet composition are important in community
ecology because the use of resources by organisms has a major influence on population
interactions within a community (Mequilla 2007)
24 Fish dietary analysis
Through the examination of the gut content analysis the feeding behavior of
freshwater fishes can be determined The analyses were limited to food items found in the
gut and esophagus to increase the possibility that the food item had been eaten recently and
in the habitat where the fish were caught (Wennhage et aI 2002 Tan 2004 Hasnidah
2005) Most studies of the feeding ecology of teleost fish in their natural habitats have
6
emphasized the temporal and systematic aspects of a particular species (Hofer amp Schiemer
198 1 )
For dietary analysis only the stomach content is considered most important This
analysis is significant for the study of predation competitions trophic level and food web
in the ecosystem (Anderson 2000 Tan 2004 Luna et al 2008) Furthermore without the
knowledge of dietary relationships among organism community structure and population
interaction are difficult to assume (Layman amp Silliman 2002)
During the feeding activity one should consider the percentage of empty stomach
in a sample as well as composition and state of digestion of each prey in each fish gut at
each sampling since feeding activity is controlled by environments behavior and
physiology There are three methods of gut content analysis which are numerical
volumetric and gravimetric analysis However the suitable methods depends on the study
and food type to be analyzed (Windwell et al 1978 Tan 2004 Hasnidah 2005)
7
CHAPTER III
30 Materials and Methods
31 Study Area
This study was carried out at Nanga Merit Kapit Sarawak (Fig 31) Study areas
covers nine stations namely station 1 (Sg Sebulut) station 2 (Sg Seririt) station 3 (Sg
Beluti) station 4 (Sg Temulan) station 5 (Sg Merit- upper area) station 6 (Sg Meritshy
middle area) station 7 (Sg Merit- lower area) station 8 (Sg Rajang-east part) and station
9 (Sg Rajang- west part) (Fig 1)
32 Fish sampling
Fishes were collected using cast net with stretched mesh size of I5cm 2m long In
several stations gill net with stretched mesh of 15cm was used All species were
identified follow those from Mohsin and Ambak (1983) Robert (1989) Inger and Chin
(1990) and Kottelat et ai (1993) Photograph of each species was taken for record The
total length (em) standard length (cm) was measured using measuring board and the wet
weight (gram) was measured using weighting scale and recorded accordingly The
specimens were preserved in 10 formalin in the field and later replaced with 70
ethanol after two weeks in the laboratory
Fish gut was dissected from each species after identification accomplished The
guts were pre-mixed into 10 formalin and then the contents were completely emptied
into labeled Petri dish containing 70 ethanol AU species were identified follows those
Kot clat et ai (1993) Data analysis of biological indices such as Shannon-Weiner
8
Diversity Index (H) Margalef Richness Index (D) and Pielou Similarity Index (J) were
used
N
T
Figure 1 Locations of the sampling sites involved in this study
Keys
1- Sungai Sebulut 4- Sungai Temulan 7- Sungai Merit (lower)
2- Sungai Seririt 5- Sungai Merit (upper) 8- Sungai Rajang (east part)
- Sungai Beluti 6- Sungai Merit (middle) 9- Sungai Rajang (west part)
9
~LIlDOlratlory analysis
331Fish diet analysis
Based on the results of gut content analysis the diet of freshwater fish species at
The preserved gut was washed with tap water and was then cut open and the entire
contents were removed and were placed on the Petri dish The gut contents of each
were analyzed under the compound microscope Identification of the gut
IfllllOUIiJ Was made based on the morphology characteristics of each organism The number
item in the contents will be counted in a grid Petri dish Items were identified to the
taxonomic level and unidentified food materials were counted as unidentified The
iIIIliticatl()o of the gut contents will be made based on Sze (1993) and Pechenik (2000)
332Gut content analysis
The guts were dissected and the contents were examined under compound
OS(ope The following categories of contents are considered fish insects (both
and terrestrial) zooplankton microbenthos macrophytes filamentous algae
and planktonic) other phytoplankton and pollen and seeds
Analysis of gut using dissection was conducted using a sharp and fine dissecting
for the incision Once the intact gut has been dissected it was place on a clean
rosco~1e slide The gut contents were tease from the gut or foregut with a fine
_lCtiIltg pin or fine forceps and disperse in slide It was placed a cover slip over the
pressed gently to spread the gut material and then dry the slide on a slide
10
warmer The gut contents was examine and identified its components as accurately as
possible
To measure the gut contents of the gut and to estimate the frequency of occurrence
in the stomach numerical (quantitative) method will be used The diet analysis will be
analyzed on their Food Composition (Cn) and Frequency of Occurrence (F) (Hyslop 1980
Tan 2004 Hasnidah 2005)
Frequency of Occurrence
To estimate the proportion of the population that feed on the particular food items
F =(AlB) x 100
Where
A =Number of guts containing a particular food item
B =Total number of guts being analyzed
Food Composition
The comparison of numerical percentage in the types of food inside the guts and the
potential of food taken by fishes will give the information about the food selection
Cn =(CD) x 100
Where
C = Number of food items of a given type in all specimens
D =Total number of all food items that are found in all specimens
11
34 Data analysis for Fish Composition
To analyze the fish composition analysis of biological indices such as Shannon-Weiner
Diversity Index (H) Margalef Richness Index (D) and Pielou Similarity Index (J) will be
used as follows
Shannon and Weiner Diversity Index (H) ( Shannon and Weaver 1963)
H =-Ipi In pi
Where
pi = NilN (Ni = Total number of individuals of species i)
N = total number of individuals of all species
Margalef Richness Index (D) (Margalef 1968)
D= S-1I10g N
where
S = total number of species
N =total number of individuals of all species
Pielou Similarity Index (J) (Pielou 1966)
J= HI In S
Where
H = diversity index
S =total number of species
12
CHAPTER IV
40 RESULT AND DISCUSSION
41 Fish Assemblages
A total of 106 individua1s from fifteen species belonging to 5 families and 11 genus
namely Bagridae Cyprinidae Mastacembelidae Pangasidae and Siluridae were caught
during this project
bull Bagridae
bull Cyprinidae
Mastacembelidae
bull Pangasidae
Siluridae
Figure 2 Percentage of freshwater fish based on family obtained during this project
Family Cyprinidae (604) are the dominant family inhabiting Nanga Merit
followed by family Siluridae (226) Bagridae (151 ) Mastacembelidae (09) and
Pangasidae (09) (Fig 2) This finding is supported by Nyanti et al (1995) where they
reported approximately 66 fish caught were family Cyprinidae in Batang Rajang This
si ti n was also in accordance with Ismail (1994) who stated that the freshwater habitat
of Southeast Asia was dominated by cyprinid fish Similar results were obtained by
13
Khairul Adha et al (2009) where they reported that Batang Kerang was dominated by
Cyprinidae Approximately 33 of freshwater fish in the Western Borneo mostly are
dominated by Cyprinidae (Robert 1989)
The species belonging to family Cyprinidae found in all stations except Station 9
The absence of fish from family Cyprinidae in Station 9 is probably due to the technical
error during fish sampling The dominant genera in terms of total number of individuals
caught were represented by Cyclocheichthys (236) Rasbora (142) and Barbodes
(1 23) Nyanti et al (1999) documented genera Nematabramis and Tor representing
324 and 168 respectively as the dominant genera in Kelabit Highland This contrast
findings found between these two studies may be due to the sampling period This study
was conducted their samplings during dry season whereas Nyanti et al (1999) conducted
during raining season
In this study Nematabramis borneesis was found only in Station 1 with only two
individual In contrast with study done by Nyanti et at (1999) recorded a total of 168
individuals of Nematabramis borneesis in Kelabit Highland Station 8 has the highest
number of species with eight individual recorded whereas Station 2 4 and 5 recorded the
lowest nwnber of species with only one individuals (Table 1)
The abundance of Rasbora is coherent with the characteristics of the stations
Rasbora argyrotaemia has been found only in clear water over gravel bottom in North
Borneo (Inger amp Chin 1990) This species live in a moderate to fast flowing streams with
sandy bottoms and fast flowing rivers with gravel and rocky susbtrate (Kottelat et at
1993 Rachmatika2005) Furthermore the habitat is characterized by heavy vegetation
middotch most likely serves as a nursery grounds Sipin (2004) had carried out a study on
14
diversity of fish in Sungai Kesit Batang Lemanak Sarawak and he also recorded Rasbora
as the dominant genus
Kryptopterus limpok was found in Station 7 which recorded a total of 22
individuals compared to other stations (Table 1) Family Bagridae and Siluridae were
found at Station 7 8 and 9 which represent Sungai Merit (lower part) Sungai Rajang (east
part) and Sungai Rajang (west part) Atirah (2010) recorded to have 349ftu for turbidity
and 506 for pH water in Station 7 Khairul Adha et al (2009) reported that Bagridae and
Siluridae have the ability to adapt in water with low dissolved oxygen levels and high
acidic water Atack (2006) added that Bagridae live in downstream to the tidal brackish
waters oflarger rivers
Mastacembelidae keithi was found only at Station 8 that comprises an area of fast
flowing turbid water and muddy bottom Inger and Chin (1990) recorded that most
individuals of this species were caught over silty bottom sand gravel and rock In
addition Martin-Smith and Tan (1998) documented that at Danum Valley Eastern of
Sabah has fewer individuals of this species in which it was never abundant and only few
individuals found in leaf banks or under log debris or log During dry season some of this
species burrow into the bottom mud (Graham 1997 Berra 2001)
The distribution of fish is also influence by the biological factors of the aquatic
environment namely the availability of food items (Khairul Adha et al2009 Cyprino et
al2008 Moyle et al 2000)
The number of catch in this study was low comparing to other studies for example
Khairul Adha et al (2009) documented a total of 234 individuals were caught in Batang
g and Nyanti et al (1999) reported a total of 521 individuals were caught in Kelabit
Highland in Sarawak This may due to the effect of poisoning and low water level during
15
J Borang Pcngcsahan Laporan Projck PCllyclidikan Tahun Akhir ~ (STF3014) ~
fakulti Sains dan Teknologi Sumber Universiti Malaysia Sarawak
-A-(( IMtf ~ _______ _____ ____~_ _ _ _ (nama) no pelajar
_ ____ mengaku tdah membuat perubahan yang perlu tidak ada
terhadap
MIi-RJ-
Vl~ bull
Laporan P-t~
Projek Penyelidikan yang bertaj uk ~~-M~~ A-ll) t1tslR ~I
ini saya sertakan 3 salinan hardcopy dan 1 salinan softcopy Laporan Projek
Tandatangan Pelajar Tandatangan Penyelia
f (~ M~JtH )
~
~ ssan rusan Sumbor A~ua
Ptt~ Prosram abatan SainS Akuallk
FBulti Sainsdan Teknologi 5umblt~r _ pocang yang lidak berkailan UNIVERSl11 MALAYSIA SARAWAK
94300 Kola Si IItllO
rasmi)
CNama amp
Pusat KJllOlli~ ld middot l 0 UNTVERSITI MALAYSlA SARA~AK
Nanga Merit Fishes Assemblages and Their Feeding Behaviors
Farah Adibah Esa
This project is submitted in partial fulfillment of the requirements for the
Degree of Bachelor of Science with Honours
(Department of Aquatic Science)
Faculty of Resource Science and Technology
UNIVERSITI MALAYSIA SARA W AK
2010
I
I
DECLARATION
I hereby declare that thesis is based on my original work except for quotation and citation
which have been acknowledged I also declare that it has not previously or concurrently
submitted for any other degree at UNIMAS or other institutions
()
~
Farah Adibah Esa
Aquatic Resource Science and Management
Department of Aquatic Science
Faculty of Resource Science and Technology
Universiti Malaysia Sarawak
ACKNOWLEDGEMENT
With the name of Allah the Almighty with His blessing and thoughtfulness finally I have
completed my final year project
I would like to extend my heartfelt gratitude to my supervisor Dr Ruhana Hassan
for her invaluable advice and untiring assist in preparation of this research I would like to
express my appreciation to Mr Zaidi bin Ibrahim Mr Zulkifli bin Ahmad Mr Nazri bin
Latip Mr Richard Toh and Mr Haris Norman Mustafa Kamal bin Mohd Faizal for
their help during the making of this final year project I also wish to express my sincere
appreaciation to Mohd Nasarudin Harith for his willingness to help and guide in
completing this research on time
With love and care I would like to thank my father Esa Mustaffa and my mother
Lillinoor Abdullah for their undying advice and support during my hardest moment I
would also like to express my gratefulness to Nazarudin bin lahidin for his continuous
moral support and encouragement for my final year project Last but not least I am
thankful to my coursemates Umi Salbiah Hussin Nurhanan Atiq Haron and Nur Amalina
Ahmad Rizal for their help and assistance Thank you to any individual that involved
direct or indirectly in the making of this final year project report
PUScU Alil~ l ~ A ll1fl UNIVERSITI MALAYSIA SARAWAi
TABLE OF CONTENTS
ACKNOWLEDGEMENT
TABLE OF CONTENT II
LIST OF TABLES AND FIGURES III
ABSTRACT v
10 INTRODUCTION amp OBJECTIVE
20 LITERATURE REVIEW 3
21 Freshwater Fish Composition 3
211 Freshwater Fish Composition in Peninsular Malaysia 3
212 Freshwater Fish Composition in Sarawak 4
22 Feeding Behaviors of Fish 5
23 Fish Dietary Analysis 6
30 MATERIALS AND METHODS 8
31 Study Area 8
32 Fish Sampling 8
33 Laboratory Analysis 10
331 Fish Diet Analysis 10
332 Gut Content Analysis 10
34 Data Analysis for Fish Composition 12
40 RESULTS AND DISCUSSION 13
41 Fish Assemblages 13
42 Diversity Indices 20
43 Feeding Behavior 22
50 CONCLUSION 31
60 REFERENCES 32
70 APPENDIXES 39
II
UST OF TABLES
Table 1
Table 2
Table 3
Table 4
Table 5
Table 6
Table 7
Table 8
Table 9
Table 10
Fish fauna distribution according to speCIes and stations in Nanga Merit Kapit
17
List of fish species found at each station with range values of the measurements according to the total number of species caught (N) standard length (SL) total length (TL) wet weight (WT) and standard deviation (SO) of samples collected from Nanga Merit Kapit (Mean plusmn SO)
18
H D and J values according to stations 21
Summary of feeding behavior of freshwater fish caught at Nanga Merit area
22
The food composition (Cn) for the 15 selected fish species at Nanga Merit
23
Food composition (Cn) and frequency of occurrence (F) of insect 26 and invertebrates identified
Food composition (Cn) and frequency of occurrence diatom identified
Food composition (Cn) and frequency of occurrence algae identified
Food composition (Cn) and frequency of occurrence unidentified items
Details description on the sampling sites
(F) of the 27
(F) of the 28
(F) of the 29
43
III
I
I
LIST OF FIGURES
Figure 1
Figure 2
Location of the sampling sites involved in this study
Percentage of freshwater fish based on Family obtained during this project
9
13
IV
~----------------------------------------
NANGA MERIT FISHES ASSEMBLAGES AND THEIR FEEDING BEHAVIORS
Farah Adibah Esa
Department of Aquatic Science
Faculty of Resource Science and Technology
Universiti Malaysia Sarawak
ABSTRACT
This study was conducted to identify the diversity of freshwater fish and their teeding behavior in Nanga Merit A total
of 106 individuals comprising 15 families belonging to 5 families and II genera were caught Cyprinidae and Siluridae
were identified to be the dominant family representing 604 and 226 respectively The commonly caught individuals
wcr from the genera Cyclocheichillys (236) Rasbora (142) and Bmbodrs (123) Low number of individuals
was obtained during this study most probably due to the effects of poisoning (commercial pesticides and tuba sap) and
the low water level during dry season There three main feeding behavior of fish in Nanga Merit namely carnivore
herbivore and omnivore Based on the diet analysis the major types consumed are diatoms algae and invertebrates
lwonns nematodes copepod rotifer and larvae chironomid) Data obtained during this project serves as baseline data for
freshwater fish in Sarawak
Keyword Cyprinidae freshwater fish feeding behavior Nanga Mrit
K(1jian in lelall dijalankan bag mengenalpasl kepelbagaian kOlllllili ikan air lawar dan labial pelllakanan di Nanga
Meril DlIa jenis penangkapan ikan lelali diglln(lnkan iailu pukal hanYIII dan jala Sebanyak 106 individual lereliri
duripada 5 jamiii dan II genera lelall dilangkap Cyprinidae dan Siluridae didaplli mendoll1inasi kawasan Nanga Meril
dun Ifasillg-111asing l11ewakili 604 dan 226 Ikan yang lebih kerap dilangkap lerdiri daripada genlls
Cyclocheicllyhys (236) Rasbora (42) dan Bbodes (23) lIInlali individllal yang rendah dilangkap
berilllmllngkinan kerana kesan racln (peslisida dan IIba sub) dan paras air yang rendaft kerana 11111sim kering TOdapal
liga kllmpllall labial pell1akallan iailll kallivor herbivor dln omnivor Berdaslrkan ana lisa diel makalan IIlalla yang
dinakan adalaft dialom alga dan illverlcbrale (Ullll nonalode kopepoda rOlifer dan larvae cliirolollid) Dala yang
dipero lelri di dalam projck ini adalcdl sebagai garispanduan dallillUk ikon air I war di Sarallak
Kata Kunci Cyprinidae ikan air tawar tabiat pemakanan Nanga Merit
v
CHAPTER I
10 Introduction
In Malaysia freshwater fish is the source of livelihood and is the main protein
source for many rural communities and its consumption is widespread Freshwater fish
distributions cover lenthic and lotic environment and inhabit a great variety of habitats
ranging from small torrential streams to estuarine (Mohsin amp Ambak 1983) Freshwater
fishes are found only in a specific type of habitat and its salinity is the critical factor that
separates freshwater species from marine (Atack 2006)
Studies on fish fauna had been carried out in Penang (Alfred 1963) Nouthern
Selangor peat swamp forest (Davies amp Abdullah 1989) Sayap-Kinabalu Park (Nyanti
1998) Kelabit Highlands (Nyanti et at 1999) Crocker Range Park (Khairul Adha et at
2002) North Park peat swamp forest (Shah et at 2006) and Ulu Tungud Mehau Range at
Sandakan (Amirrudin et at 2006) In Sarawak studies on fish fauna had been carried out
for Gunung Mulu National Park Bau Limestone region and Baram (Atack 2006)
The freshwater fish fauna of Peninsular Malaysia is highly diverse Zakaria-Ismail
(1992) estimated that there are approximately 300 species of freshwater fishes in Malaysia
He listed 259 speceis of native freshwater fishes in Peninsular Malaysia Most of the fish
species diversity occurs in the tropical area (Kottelat et aI 1993) Mohsin and Ambak
(1983) listed a total of382 species of freshwater fish representing 56 familes in Peninsular
Malaysia For East Malaysia study on freshwater fish was by Inger and Chin (1990) in
North Borneo
Like all other vertebrates fishes are conventionally grouped as carnovires omnivores
an herbivore on the basis of their food habit They may also be grouped as filter-feeders
detritus-feeders or as predators However most fish can adapt their diet to the available
1
food supply The study on diet and feeding habit is necessary for understanding the
strategy of digestion and the digestive strategy of fish can truly reflects its food habit in
terms of resource utilization (Chakrabarti et al 1995) Other than that the diet analysis
also important for the studies of predation competition trophic level and food web
Nanga Merit is situated in Sarawak Malaysia Its geographical coordinates are 2deg
IT O North 113 deg8 0 East It is located at Kapit division and the people in the area have
been bearing their daily routines with wet padi cultivation Fisheries activities in Nanga
Merit area are carried out in small scale basis either to generate extra income or for
domestic consumption
There are several studies on freshwater fish in Sarawak for example Nyanti et al
(1 999) Lee (2004) Sipin (2005) Atack (2006) and Khairul Adha et al (2009) However
there is no proper documentation on freshwater fish in Nanga Merit Therefore this study
aims to identify the diversity of freshwater fish at Nanga Merit area In addition this study
also aims to detennine feeding behaviors of freshwater fish caught in Nanga Merit Data
obtained in this study will serve as baseline data of freshwater fish in Sarawak
2
CHAPTER II
20 Literature Review
21Freshwater fish composition
211 Freshwater fish composition in Peninsular Malaysia
Mohsin and Ambak (1983) divided Peninsular Malaysia into three main divisions
in based from the view of fish geography and their distribution North-West division
North-East and Central division and Southern division The North-West division has the
least number of fish species compared to the other two divisions due to paddy cultivation
and few rivers have dried up
The largest among the three divisions is North-East and Central division and is
bound by Kedah-Singgora north Rompin to Pahang in the south There are many manshy
made lakes and only one natural lake in Malaysia which is Tasik Chini There are a few
scattered freshwater swamp such as Tasek Bendera In consequence of the many water
bodies present in this divisions it is expected to have greatest abundance of fish fauna
Southern division is mostly dominated by Rasbora spp and the rivers in this division are
slow moving (Mohsin amp Ambak 1983)
According to Mohsin and Ambak (1983) rivers can be divided into zones upper
middle and lower zone The upper zone has a high current velocity high concentration a
sandy bed and a small volume of water carrying The fish fauna commonly found in this
zone are Rasbora sumatrana R elegans Puntius binotatus Luciosoma setigerum and
omaloptera orthogoniata The middle zone has the most fish fauna The lower zone is
the most polluted zone with very high silt loads and its flow rate is influenced by tides
3
212 Freshwater fish composition in Sarawak
Borneo is one of the most diversity areas of the world with many species being
endemic which is found only at a precise location either to the island or to the region
(Atack 2006) The distribution of fishes on Borneo offers a clue to distinguish old and
new elements of fish occurring in the Sunda area (Taki 1975) Atack (2006) stated that
Sarawak of254 freshwater fishes Sarawak River is complex therefore it supports a mix of
freshwater and estuarine species but mostly consists of freshwater species around
Kampung Paroh area
Sarawak River is relatively large river with two tributaries that run through the Bau
limestone region which are Sarawak Kiri and Sarawak Kanan The Kuching Barrage
functions as to control the Sarawak River maintaining a stable water level at the
waterfront and preventing saltwater contamination to water supply by changes of salinity
daily due to flushing of large influx of saltwater This periodic flushing will lead to a
mixed population of freshwater and saltwater fish species upstream of the Barrage (Atack
2006)
According to Nyanti et at (1999) Tor spp would seek shelter in tributaries which
have clear water and relatively low current velocity Sarawaks inland fisheries include a
number of highly valued species such as the cyprinid family locally known as Empurau
and Semah Species other than carp such as Tapah (Wallago sp) and herring locally
known as Terubok (Tenualosa sp) found to have commercial values to the local
community Tor tambroides (Empurau) is a large herbivorous carp that can be found in
clear rocky streams in the upland forest It was once found in most Sarawaks major river
su as Rejang Baram Limbang and the Ai These species are threatened by activities
such as overfishing and habitat degradation (Atack 2006)
4
Pusat Khidmat Maldumat Akademik UNIVERSITI MALAYSIA SABAWAK
22 Feeding Behaviour of Fish
The study of feeding ecology is a essential tool to understand fish roles within their
ecosystems (Hajisamaea et ai 2003) In the same time study of the food and feeding
behavior of freshwater fish is a matter of continuous research since it the basis for
development of a successful fisheries management programme on fish capture and culture
From its food a fish must obtain both macro- and micronutrients (Halver 1989) The range
of potential foods that are available reflects the physical environment The range taken by
a species depends on its ability to detect acquire and process the food (Wootton 1992)
Habitat type is also a significant aspect which influences the feeding approach of a species
by determining foraging opportunities Fishes tend to prefer habitat which has less prey
and capturing of abundant food (Hajisamaea et ai 2003)
Mohsin and Ambak (1983) classified fishes into three main categories which are
herbivore carnivore and omnivore Most of the Malaysia fishes are omnivorous Puntius
gonnionotus Mystus nemurus M villatus Clarias spp Tor tambroides and Chonerhinus
modestus are some of the example The second largest group of fishes is carnivorous that
feed on other animals such as benthic organisms invertebrates crustaceans other fishes
followed by herbivores which eats aquatic plants small or big algae fruits and vegetation
that have dropped into the water (Atack 2006) Many species of fish that live in the
surface waters of the sea feed on plankton which is both zooplankton and phytoplankton
and it can be describe as p1anktivores (Atack 2006)
Based on detail analysis of gut contents it can be concluded that terrestrial insects
and plants are among the majority of food types eaten by freshwater fish in Peninsular
Malaysia (Mohsin amp Ambak 1983) Data on different food items consumed by fish may
e rually result in identification of stable food preference and in creation of trophic
5
models as a tool to understand complex ecosystems (Lopez-Peralta et at 2002 Bachok et
at 2004)
Fish feeding activity is controlled by environments behavior and physiology Fish
diets varies according to area prey availability season time of day and fish size Bhuiyan
et ai (2006) states that the utilization of food and rate of digestion is also influence by the
quality and quantity of available food organisms In general most of a fishs diet consists
ofbenthic invertebrates often supplemented by terrestrial invertebrates
Studies on natural feeding of fish permit to identify the trophic feeding
composition structure and stability of food webs relationships present in aquatic
ecosystems identifying In the same time the study of food and feeding habits of
freshwater fish species is a subject of continuous research because it constituted the basis
for the development of a successful fisheries management program on fish capture and
culture (Oronsaye et ai 2005) Studies on diet composition are important in community
ecology because the use of resources by organisms has a major influence on population
interactions within a community (Mequilla 2007)
24 Fish dietary analysis
Through the examination of the gut content analysis the feeding behavior of
freshwater fishes can be determined The analyses were limited to food items found in the
gut and esophagus to increase the possibility that the food item had been eaten recently and
in the habitat where the fish were caught (Wennhage et aI 2002 Tan 2004 Hasnidah
2005) Most studies of the feeding ecology of teleost fish in their natural habitats have
6
emphasized the temporal and systematic aspects of a particular species (Hofer amp Schiemer
198 1 )
For dietary analysis only the stomach content is considered most important This
analysis is significant for the study of predation competitions trophic level and food web
in the ecosystem (Anderson 2000 Tan 2004 Luna et al 2008) Furthermore without the
knowledge of dietary relationships among organism community structure and population
interaction are difficult to assume (Layman amp Silliman 2002)
During the feeding activity one should consider the percentage of empty stomach
in a sample as well as composition and state of digestion of each prey in each fish gut at
each sampling since feeding activity is controlled by environments behavior and
physiology There are three methods of gut content analysis which are numerical
volumetric and gravimetric analysis However the suitable methods depends on the study
and food type to be analyzed (Windwell et al 1978 Tan 2004 Hasnidah 2005)
7
CHAPTER III
30 Materials and Methods
31 Study Area
This study was carried out at Nanga Merit Kapit Sarawak (Fig 31) Study areas
covers nine stations namely station 1 (Sg Sebulut) station 2 (Sg Seririt) station 3 (Sg
Beluti) station 4 (Sg Temulan) station 5 (Sg Merit- upper area) station 6 (Sg Meritshy
middle area) station 7 (Sg Merit- lower area) station 8 (Sg Rajang-east part) and station
9 (Sg Rajang- west part) (Fig 1)
32 Fish sampling
Fishes were collected using cast net with stretched mesh size of I5cm 2m long In
several stations gill net with stretched mesh of 15cm was used All species were
identified follow those from Mohsin and Ambak (1983) Robert (1989) Inger and Chin
(1990) and Kottelat et ai (1993) Photograph of each species was taken for record The
total length (em) standard length (cm) was measured using measuring board and the wet
weight (gram) was measured using weighting scale and recorded accordingly The
specimens were preserved in 10 formalin in the field and later replaced with 70
ethanol after two weeks in the laboratory
Fish gut was dissected from each species after identification accomplished The
guts were pre-mixed into 10 formalin and then the contents were completely emptied
into labeled Petri dish containing 70 ethanol AU species were identified follows those
Kot clat et ai (1993) Data analysis of biological indices such as Shannon-Weiner
8
Diversity Index (H) Margalef Richness Index (D) and Pielou Similarity Index (J) were
used
N
T
Figure 1 Locations of the sampling sites involved in this study
Keys
1- Sungai Sebulut 4- Sungai Temulan 7- Sungai Merit (lower)
2- Sungai Seririt 5- Sungai Merit (upper) 8- Sungai Rajang (east part)
- Sungai Beluti 6- Sungai Merit (middle) 9- Sungai Rajang (west part)
9
~LIlDOlratlory analysis
331Fish diet analysis
Based on the results of gut content analysis the diet of freshwater fish species at
The preserved gut was washed with tap water and was then cut open and the entire
contents were removed and were placed on the Petri dish The gut contents of each
were analyzed under the compound microscope Identification of the gut
IfllllOUIiJ Was made based on the morphology characteristics of each organism The number
item in the contents will be counted in a grid Petri dish Items were identified to the
taxonomic level and unidentified food materials were counted as unidentified The
iIIIliticatl()o of the gut contents will be made based on Sze (1993) and Pechenik (2000)
332Gut content analysis
The guts were dissected and the contents were examined under compound
OS(ope The following categories of contents are considered fish insects (both
and terrestrial) zooplankton microbenthos macrophytes filamentous algae
and planktonic) other phytoplankton and pollen and seeds
Analysis of gut using dissection was conducted using a sharp and fine dissecting
for the incision Once the intact gut has been dissected it was place on a clean
rosco~1e slide The gut contents were tease from the gut or foregut with a fine
_lCtiIltg pin or fine forceps and disperse in slide It was placed a cover slip over the
pressed gently to spread the gut material and then dry the slide on a slide
10
warmer The gut contents was examine and identified its components as accurately as
possible
To measure the gut contents of the gut and to estimate the frequency of occurrence
in the stomach numerical (quantitative) method will be used The diet analysis will be
analyzed on their Food Composition (Cn) and Frequency of Occurrence (F) (Hyslop 1980
Tan 2004 Hasnidah 2005)
Frequency of Occurrence
To estimate the proportion of the population that feed on the particular food items
F =(AlB) x 100
Where
A =Number of guts containing a particular food item
B =Total number of guts being analyzed
Food Composition
The comparison of numerical percentage in the types of food inside the guts and the
potential of food taken by fishes will give the information about the food selection
Cn =(CD) x 100
Where
C = Number of food items of a given type in all specimens
D =Total number of all food items that are found in all specimens
11
34 Data analysis for Fish Composition
To analyze the fish composition analysis of biological indices such as Shannon-Weiner
Diversity Index (H) Margalef Richness Index (D) and Pielou Similarity Index (J) will be
used as follows
Shannon and Weiner Diversity Index (H) ( Shannon and Weaver 1963)
H =-Ipi In pi
Where
pi = NilN (Ni = Total number of individuals of species i)
N = total number of individuals of all species
Margalef Richness Index (D) (Margalef 1968)
D= S-1I10g N
where
S = total number of species
N =total number of individuals of all species
Pielou Similarity Index (J) (Pielou 1966)
J= HI In S
Where
H = diversity index
S =total number of species
12
CHAPTER IV
40 RESULT AND DISCUSSION
41 Fish Assemblages
A total of 106 individua1s from fifteen species belonging to 5 families and 11 genus
namely Bagridae Cyprinidae Mastacembelidae Pangasidae and Siluridae were caught
during this project
bull Bagridae
bull Cyprinidae
Mastacembelidae
bull Pangasidae
Siluridae
Figure 2 Percentage of freshwater fish based on family obtained during this project
Family Cyprinidae (604) are the dominant family inhabiting Nanga Merit
followed by family Siluridae (226) Bagridae (151 ) Mastacembelidae (09) and
Pangasidae (09) (Fig 2) This finding is supported by Nyanti et al (1995) where they
reported approximately 66 fish caught were family Cyprinidae in Batang Rajang This
si ti n was also in accordance with Ismail (1994) who stated that the freshwater habitat
of Southeast Asia was dominated by cyprinid fish Similar results were obtained by
13
Khairul Adha et al (2009) where they reported that Batang Kerang was dominated by
Cyprinidae Approximately 33 of freshwater fish in the Western Borneo mostly are
dominated by Cyprinidae (Robert 1989)
The species belonging to family Cyprinidae found in all stations except Station 9
The absence of fish from family Cyprinidae in Station 9 is probably due to the technical
error during fish sampling The dominant genera in terms of total number of individuals
caught were represented by Cyclocheichthys (236) Rasbora (142) and Barbodes
(1 23) Nyanti et al (1999) documented genera Nematabramis and Tor representing
324 and 168 respectively as the dominant genera in Kelabit Highland This contrast
findings found between these two studies may be due to the sampling period This study
was conducted their samplings during dry season whereas Nyanti et al (1999) conducted
during raining season
In this study Nematabramis borneesis was found only in Station 1 with only two
individual In contrast with study done by Nyanti et at (1999) recorded a total of 168
individuals of Nematabramis borneesis in Kelabit Highland Station 8 has the highest
number of species with eight individual recorded whereas Station 2 4 and 5 recorded the
lowest nwnber of species with only one individuals (Table 1)
The abundance of Rasbora is coherent with the characteristics of the stations
Rasbora argyrotaemia has been found only in clear water over gravel bottom in North
Borneo (Inger amp Chin 1990) This species live in a moderate to fast flowing streams with
sandy bottoms and fast flowing rivers with gravel and rocky susbtrate (Kottelat et at
1993 Rachmatika2005) Furthermore the habitat is characterized by heavy vegetation
middotch most likely serves as a nursery grounds Sipin (2004) had carried out a study on
14
diversity of fish in Sungai Kesit Batang Lemanak Sarawak and he also recorded Rasbora
as the dominant genus
Kryptopterus limpok was found in Station 7 which recorded a total of 22
individuals compared to other stations (Table 1) Family Bagridae and Siluridae were
found at Station 7 8 and 9 which represent Sungai Merit (lower part) Sungai Rajang (east
part) and Sungai Rajang (west part) Atirah (2010) recorded to have 349ftu for turbidity
and 506 for pH water in Station 7 Khairul Adha et al (2009) reported that Bagridae and
Siluridae have the ability to adapt in water with low dissolved oxygen levels and high
acidic water Atack (2006) added that Bagridae live in downstream to the tidal brackish
waters oflarger rivers
Mastacembelidae keithi was found only at Station 8 that comprises an area of fast
flowing turbid water and muddy bottom Inger and Chin (1990) recorded that most
individuals of this species were caught over silty bottom sand gravel and rock In
addition Martin-Smith and Tan (1998) documented that at Danum Valley Eastern of
Sabah has fewer individuals of this species in which it was never abundant and only few
individuals found in leaf banks or under log debris or log During dry season some of this
species burrow into the bottom mud (Graham 1997 Berra 2001)
The distribution of fish is also influence by the biological factors of the aquatic
environment namely the availability of food items (Khairul Adha et al2009 Cyprino et
al2008 Moyle et al 2000)
The number of catch in this study was low comparing to other studies for example
Khairul Adha et al (2009) documented a total of 234 individuals were caught in Batang
g and Nyanti et al (1999) reported a total of 521 individuals were caught in Kelabit
Highland in Sarawak This may due to the effect of poisoning and low water level during
15
Pusat KJllOlli~ ld middot l 0 UNTVERSITI MALAYSlA SARA~AK
Nanga Merit Fishes Assemblages and Their Feeding Behaviors
Farah Adibah Esa
This project is submitted in partial fulfillment of the requirements for the
Degree of Bachelor of Science with Honours
(Department of Aquatic Science)
Faculty of Resource Science and Technology
UNIVERSITI MALAYSIA SARA W AK
2010
I
I
DECLARATION
I hereby declare that thesis is based on my original work except for quotation and citation
which have been acknowledged I also declare that it has not previously or concurrently
submitted for any other degree at UNIMAS or other institutions
()
~
Farah Adibah Esa
Aquatic Resource Science and Management
Department of Aquatic Science
Faculty of Resource Science and Technology
Universiti Malaysia Sarawak
ACKNOWLEDGEMENT
With the name of Allah the Almighty with His blessing and thoughtfulness finally I have
completed my final year project
I would like to extend my heartfelt gratitude to my supervisor Dr Ruhana Hassan
for her invaluable advice and untiring assist in preparation of this research I would like to
express my appreciation to Mr Zaidi bin Ibrahim Mr Zulkifli bin Ahmad Mr Nazri bin
Latip Mr Richard Toh and Mr Haris Norman Mustafa Kamal bin Mohd Faizal for
their help during the making of this final year project I also wish to express my sincere
appreaciation to Mohd Nasarudin Harith for his willingness to help and guide in
completing this research on time
With love and care I would like to thank my father Esa Mustaffa and my mother
Lillinoor Abdullah for their undying advice and support during my hardest moment I
would also like to express my gratefulness to Nazarudin bin lahidin for his continuous
moral support and encouragement for my final year project Last but not least I am
thankful to my coursemates Umi Salbiah Hussin Nurhanan Atiq Haron and Nur Amalina
Ahmad Rizal for their help and assistance Thank you to any individual that involved
direct or indirectly in the making of this final year project report
PUScU Alil~ l ~ A ll1fl UNIVERSITI MALAYSIA SARAWAi
TABLE OF CONTENTS
ACKNOWLEDGEMENT
TABLE OF CONTENT II
LIST OF TABLES AND FIGURES III
ABSTRACT v
10 INTRODUCTION amp OBJECTIVE
20 LITERATURE REVIEW 3
21 Freshwater Fish Composition 3
211 Freshwater Fish Composition in Peninsular Malaysia 3
212 Freshwater Fish Composition in Sarawak 4
22 Feeding Behaviors of Fish 5
23 Fish Dietary Analysis 6
30 MATERIALS AND METHODS 8
31 Study Area 8
32 Fish Sampling 8
33 Laboratory Analysis 10
331 Fish Diet Analysis 10
332 Gut Content Analysis 10
34 Data Analysis for Fish Composition 12
40 RESULTS AND DISCUSSION 13
41 Fish Assemblages 13
42 Diversity Indices 20
43 Feeding Behavior 22
50 CONCLUSION 31
60 REFERENCES 32
70 APPENDIXES 39
II
UST OF TABLES
Table 1
Table 2
Table 3
Table 4
Table 5
Table 6
Table 7
Table 8
Table 9
Table 10
Fish fauna distribution according to speCIes and stations in Nanga Merit Kapit
17
List of fish species found at each station with range values of the measurements according to the total number of species caught (N) standard length (SL) total length (TL) wet weight (WT) and standard deviation (SO) of samples collected from Nanga Merit Kapit (Mean plusmn SO)
18
H D and J values according to stations 21
Summary of feeding behavior of freshwater fish caught at Nanga Merit area
22
The food composition (Cn) for the 15 selected fish species at Nanga Merit
23
Food composition (Cn) and frequency of occurrence (F) of insect 26 and invertebrates identified
Food composition (Cn) and frequency of occurrence diatom identified
Food composition (Cn) and frequency of occurrence algae identified
Food composition (Cn) and frequency of occurrence unidentified items
Details description on the sampling sites
(F) of the 27
(F) of the 28
(F) of the 29
43
III
I
I
LIST OF FIGURES
Figure 1
Figure 2
Location of the sampling sites involved in this study
Percentage of freshwater fish based on Family obtained during this project
9
13
IV
~----------------------------------------
NANGA MERIT FISHES ASSEMBLAGES AND THEIR FEEDING BEHAVIORS
Farah Adibah Esa
Department of Aquatic Science
Faculty of Resource Science and Technology
Universiti Malaysia Sarawak
ABSTRACT
This study was conducted to identify the diversity of freshwater fish and their teeding behavior in Nanga Merit A total
of 106 individuals comprising 15 families belonging to 5 families and II genera were caught Cyprinidae and Siluridae
were identified to be the dominant family representing 604 and 226 respectively The commonly caught individuals
wcr from the genera Cyclocheichillys (236) Rasbora (142) and Bmbodrs (123) Low number of individuals
was obtained during this study most probably due to the effects of poisoning (commercial pesticides and tuba sap) and
the low water level during dry season There three main feeding behavior of fish in Nanga Merit namely carnivore
herbivore and omnivore Based on the diet analysis the major types consumed are diatoms algae and invertebrates
lwonns nematodes copepod rotifer and larvae chironomid) Data obtained during this project serves as baseline data for
freshwater fish in Sarawak
Keyword Cyprinidae freshwater fish feeding behavior Nanga Mrit
K(1jian in lelall dijalankan bag mengenalpasl kepelbagaian kOlllllili ikan air lawar dan labial pelllakanan di Nanga
Meril DlIa jenis penangkapan ikan lelali diglln(lnkan iailu pukal hanYIII dan jala Sebanyak 106 individual lereliri
duripada 5 jamiii dan II genera lelall dilangkap Cyprinidae dan Siluridae didaplli mendoll1inasi kawasan Nanga Meril
dun Ifasillg-111asing l11ewakili 604 dan 226 Ikan yang lebih kerap dilangkap lerdiri daripada genlls
Cyclocheicllyhys (236) Rasbora (42) dan Bbodes (23) lIInlali individllal yang rendah dilangkap
berilllmllngkinan kerana kesan racln (peslisida dan IIba sub) dan paras air yang rendaft kerana 11111sim kering TOdapal
liga kllmpllall labial pell1akallan iailll kallivor herbivor dln omnivor Berdaslrkan ana lisa diel makalan IIlalla yang
dinakan adalaft dialom alga dan illverlcbrale (Ullll nonalode kopepoda rOlifer dan larvae cliirolollid) Dala yang
dipero lelri di dalam projck ini adalcdl sebagai garispanduan dallillUk ikon air I war di Sarallak
Kata Kunci Cyprinidae ikan air tawar tabiat pemakanan Nanga Merit
v
CHAPTER I
10 Introduction
In Malaysia freshwater fish is the source of livelihood and is the main protein
source for many rural communities and its consumption is widespread Freshwater fish
distributions cover lenthic and lotic environment and inhabit a great variety of habitats
ranging from small torrential streams to estuarine (Mohsin amp Ambak 1983) Freshwater
fishes are found only in a specific type of habitat and its salinity is the critical factor that
separates freshwater species from marine (Atack 2006)
Studies on fish fauna had been carried out in Penang (Alfred 1963) Nouthern
Selangor peat swamp forest (Davies amp Abdullah 1989) Sayap-Kinabalu Park (Nyanti
1998) Kelabit Highlands (Nyanti et at 1999) Crocker Range Park (Khairul Adha et at
2002) North Park peat swamp forest (Shah et at 2006) and Ulu Tungud Mehau Range at
Sandakan (Amirrudin et at 2006) In Sarawak studies on fish fauna had been carried out
for Gunung Mulu National Park Bau Limestone region and Baram (Atack 2006)
The freshwater fish fauna of Peninsular Malaysia is highly diverse Zakaria-Ismail
(1992) estimated that there are approximately 300 species of freshwater fishes in Malaysia
He listed 259 speceis of native freshwater fishes in Peninsular Malaysia Most of the fish
species diversity occurs in the tropical area (Kottelat et aI 1993) Mohsin and Ambak
(1983) listed a total of382 species of freshwater fish representing 56 familes in Peninsular
Malaysia For East Malaysia study on freshwater fish was by Inger and Chin (1990) in
North Borneo
Like all other vertebrates fishes are conventionally grouped as carnovires omnivores
an herbivore on the basis of their food habit They may also be grouped as filter-feeders
detritus-feeders or as predators However most fish can adapt their diet to the available
1
food supply The study on diet and feeding habit is necessary for understanding the
strategy of digestion and the digestive strategy of fish can truly reflects its food habit in
terms of resource utilization (Chakrabarti et al 1995) Other than that the diet analysis
also important for the studies of predation competition trophic level and food web
Nanga Merit is situated in Sarawak Malaysia Its geographical coordinates are 2deg
IT O North 113 deg8 0 East It is located at Kapit division and the people in the area have
been bearing their daily routines with wet padi cultivation Fisheries activities in Nanga
Merit area are carried out in small scale basis either to generate extra income or for
domestic consumption
There are several studies on freshwater fish in Sarawak for example Nyanti et al
(1 999) Lee (2004) Sipin (2005) Atack (2006) and Khairul Adha et al (2009) However
there is no proper documentation on freshwater fish in Nanga Merit Therefore this study
aims to identify the diversity of freshwater fish at Nanga Merit area In addition this study
also aims to detennine feeding behaviors of freshwater fish caught in Nanga Merit Data
obtained in this study will serve as baseline data of freshwater fish in Sarawak
2
CHAPTER II
20 Literature Review
21Freshwater fish composition
211 Freshwater fish composition in Peninsular Malaysia
Mohsin and Ambak (1983) divided Peninsular Malaysia into three main divisions
in based from the view of fish geography and their distribution North-West division
North-East and Central division and Southern division The North-West division has the
least number of fish species compared to the other two divisions due to paddy cultivation
and few rivers have dried up
The largest among the three divisions is North-East and Central division and is
bound by Kedah-Singgora north Rompin to Pahang in the south There are many manshy
made lakes and only one natural lake in Malaysia which is Tasik Chini There are a few
scattered freshwater swamp such as Tasek Bendera In consequence of the many water
bodies present in this divisions it is expected to have greatest abundance of fish fauna
Southern division is mostly dominated by Rasbora spp and the rivers in this division are
slow moving (Mohsin amp Ambak 1983)
According to Mohsin and Ambak (1983) rivers can be divided into zones upper
middle and lower zone The upper zone has a high current velocity high concentration a
sandy bed and a small volume of water carrying The fish fauna commonly found in this
zone are Rasbora sumatrana R elegans Puntius binotatus Luciosoma setigerum and
omaloptera orthogoniata The middle zone has the most fish fauna The lower zone is
the most polluted zone with very high silt loads and its flow rate is influenced by tides
3
212 Freshwater fish composition in Sarawak
Borneo is one of the most diversity areas of the world with many species being
endemic which is found only at a precise location either to the island or to the region
(Atack 2006) The distribution of fishes on Borneo offers a clue to distinguish old and
new elements of fish occurring in the Sunda area (Taki 1975) Atack (2006) stated that
Sarawak of254 freshwater fishes Sarawak River is complex therefore it supports a mix of
freshwater and estuarine species but mostly consists of freshwater species around
Kampung Paroh area
Sarawak River is relatively large river with two tributaries that run through the Bau
limestone region which are Sarawak Kiri and Sarawak Kanan The Kuching Barrage
functions as to control the Sarawak River maintaining a stable water level at the
waterfront and preventing saltwater contamination to water supply by changes of salinity
daily due to flushing of large influx of saltwater This periodic flushing will lead to a
mixed population of freshwater and saltwater fish species upstream of the Barrage (Atack
2006)
According to Nyanti et at (1999) Tor spp would seek shelter in tributaries which
have clear water and relatively low current velocity Sarawaks inland fisheries include a
number of highly valued species such as the cyprinid family locally known as Empurau
and Semah Species other than carp such as Tapah (Wallago sp) and herring locally
known as Terubok (Tenualosa sp) found to have commercial values to the local
community Tor tambroides (Empurau) is a large herbivorous carp that can be found in
clear rocky streams in the upland forest It was once found in most Sarawaks major river
su as Rejang Baram Limbang and the Ai These species are threatened by activities
such as overfishing and habitat degradation (Atack 2006)
4
Pusat Khidmat Maldumat Akademik UNIVERSITI MALAYSIA SABAWAK
22 Feeding Behaviour of Fish
The study of feeding ecology is a essential tool to understand fish roles within their
ecosystems (Hajisamaea et ai 2003) In the same time study of the food and feeding
behavior of freshwater fish is a matter of continuous research since it the basis for
development of a successful fisheries management programme on fish capture and culture
From its food a fish must obtain both macro- and micronutrients (Halver 1989) The range
of potential foods that are available reflects the physical environment The range taken by
a species depends on its ability to detect acquire and process the food (Wootton 1992)
Habitat type is also a significant aspect which influences the feeding approach of a species
by determining foraging opportunities Fishes tend to prefer habitat which has less prey
and capturing of abundant food (Hajisamaea et ai 2003)
Mohsin and Ambak (1983) classified fishes into three main categories which are
herbivore carnivore and omnivore Most of the Malaysia fishes are omnivorous Puntius
gonnionotus Mystus nemurus M villatus Clarias spp Tor tambroides and Chonerhinus
modestus are some of the example The second largest group of fishes is carnivorous that
feed on other animals such as benthic organisms invertebrates crustaceans other fishes
followed by herbivores which eats aquatic plants small or big algae fruits and vegetation
that have dropped into the water (Atack 2006) Many species of fish that live in the
surface waters of the sea feed on plankton which is both zooplankton and phytoplankton
and it can be describe as p1anktivores (Atack 2006)
Based on detail analysis of gut contents it can be concluded that terrestrial insects
and plants are among the majority of food types eaten by freshwater fish in Peninsular
Malaysia (Mohsin amp Ambak 1983) Data on different food items consumed by fish may
e rually result in identification of stable food preference and in creation of trophic
5
models as a tool to understand complex ecosystems (Lopez-Peralta et at 2002 Bachok et
at 2004)
Fish feeding activity is controlled by environments behavior and physiology Fish
diets varies according to area prey availability season time of day and fish size Bhuiyan
et ai (2006) states that the utilization of food and rate of digestion is also influence by the
quality and quantity of available food organisms In general most of a fishs diet consists
ofbenthic invertebrates often supplemented by terrestrial invertebrates
Studies on natural feeding of fish permit to identify the trophic feeding
composition structure and stability of food webs relationships present in aquatic
ecosystems identifying In the same time the study of food and feeding habits of
freshwater fish species is a subject of continuous research because it constituted the basis
for the development of a successful fisheries management program on fish capture and
culture (Oronsaye et ai 2005) Studies on diet composition are important in community
ecology because the use of resources by organisms has a major influence on population
interactions within a community (Mequilla 2007)
24 Fish dietary analysis
Through the examination of the gut content analysis the feeding behavior of
freshwater fishes can be determined The analyses were limited to food items found in the
gut and esophagus to increase the possibility that the food item had been eaten recently and
in the habitat where the fish were caught (Wennhage et aI 2002 Tan 2004 Hasnidah
2005) Most studies of the feeding ecology of teleost fish in their natural habitats have
6
emphasized the temporal and systematic aspects of a particular species (Hofer amp Schiemer
198 1 )
For dietary analysis only the stomach content is considered most important This
analysis is significant for the study of predation competitions trophic level and food web
in the ecosystem (Anderson 2000 Tan 2004 Luna et al 2008) Furthermore without the
knowledge of dietary relationships among organism community structure and population
interaction are difficult to assume (Layman amp Silliman 2002)
During the feeding activity one should consider the percentage of empty stomach
in a sample as well as composition and state of digestion of each prey in each fish gut at
each sampling since feeding activity is controlled by environments behavior and
physiology There are three methods of gut content analysis which are numerical
volumetric and gravimetric analysis However the suitable methods depends on the study
and food type to be analyzed (Windwell et al 1978 Tan 2004 Hasnidah 2005)
7
CHAPTER III
30 Materials and Methods
31 Study Area
This study was carried out at Nanga Merit Kapit Sarawak (Fig 31) Study areas
covers nine stations namely station 1 (Sg Sebulut) station 2 (Sg Seririt) station 3 (Sg
Beluti) station 4 (Sg Temulan) station 5 (Sg Merit- upper area) station 6 (Sg Meritshy
middle area) station 7 (Sg Merit- lower area) station 8 (Sg Rajang-east part) and station
9 (Sg Rajang- west part) (Fig 1)
32 Fish sampling
Fishes were collected using cast net with stretched mesh size of I5cm 2m long In
several stations gill net with stretched mesh of 15cm was used All species were
identified follow those from Mohsin and Ambak (1983) Robert (1989) Inger and Chin
(1990) and Kottelat et ai (1993) Photograph of each species was taken for record The
total length (em) standard length (cm) was measured using measuring board and the wet
weight (gram) was measured using weighting scale and recorded accordingly The
specimens were preserved in 10 formalin in the field and later replaced with 70
ethanol after two weeks in the laboratory
Fish gut was dissected from each species after identification accomplished The
guts were pre-mixed into 10 formalin and then the contents were completely emptied
into labeled Petri dish containing 70 ethanol AU species were identified follows those
Kot clat et ai (1993) Data analysis of biological indices such as Shannon-Weiner
8
Diversity Index (H) Margalef Richness Index (D) and Pielou Similarity Index (J) were
used
N
T
Figure 1 Locations of the sampling sites involved in this study
Keys
1- Sungai Sebulut 4- Sungai Temulan 7- Sungai Merit (lower)
2- Sungai Seririt 5- Sungai Merit (upper) 8- Sungai Rajang (east part)
- Sungai Beluti 6- Sungai Merit (middle) 9- Sungai Rajang (west part)
9
~LIlDOlratlory analysis
331Fish diet analysis
Based on the results of gut content analysis the diet of freshwater fish species at
The preserved gut was washed with tap water and was then cut open and the entire
contents were removed and were placed on the Petri dish The gut contents of each
were analyzed under the compound microscope Identification of the gut
IfllllOUIiJ Was made based on the morphology characteristics of each organism The number
item in the contents will be counted in a grid Petri dish Items were identified to the
taxonomic level and unidentified food materials were counted as unidentified The
iIIIliticatl()o of the gut contents will be made based on Sze (1993) and Pechenik (2000)
332Gut content analysis
The guts were dissected and the contents were examined under compound
OS(ope The following categories of contents are considered fish insects (both
and terrestrial) zooplankton microbenthos macrophytes filamentous algae
and planktonic) other phytoplankton and pollen and seeds
Analysis of gut using dissection was conducted using a sharp and fine dissecting
for the incision Once the intact gut has been dissected it was place on a clean
rosco~1e slide The gut contents were tease from the gut or foregut with a fine
_lCtiIltg pin or fine forceps and disperse in slide It was placed a cover slip over the
pressed gently to spread the gut material and then dry the slide on a slide
10
warmer The gut contents was examine and identified its components as accurately as
possible
To measure the gut contents of the gut and to estimate the frequency of occurrence
in the stomach numerical (quantitative) method will be used The diet analysis will be
analyzed on their Food Composition (Cn) and Frequency of Occurrence (F) (Hyslop 1980
Tan 2004 Hasnidah 2005)
Frequency of Occurrence
To estimate the proportion of the population that feed on the particular food items
F =(AlB) x 100
Where
A =Number of guts containing a particular food item
B =Total number of guts being analyzed
Food Composition
The comparison of numerical percentage in the types of food inside the guts and the
potential of food taken by fishes will give the information about the food selection
Cn =(CD) x 100
Where
C = Number of food items of a given type in all specimens
D =Total number of all food items that are found in all specimens
11
34 Data analysis for Fish Composition
To analyze the fish composition analysis of biological indices such as Shannon-Weiner
Diversity Index (H) Margalef Richness Index (D) and Pielou Similarity Index (J) will be
used as follows
Shannon and Weiner Diversity Index (H) ( Shannon and Weaver 1963)
H =-Ipi In pi
Where
pi = NilN (Ni = Total number of individuals of species i)
N = total number of individuals of all species
Margalef Richness Index (D) (Margalef 1968)
D= S-1I10g N
where
S = total number of species
N =total number of individuals of all species
Pielou Similarity Index (J) (Pielou 1966)
J= HI In S
Where
H = diversity index
S =total number of species
12
CHAPTER IV
40 RESULT AND DISCUSSION
41 Fish Assemblages
A total of 106 individua1s from fifteen species belonging to 5 families and 11 genus
namely Bagridae Cyprinidae Mastacembelidae Pangasidae and Siluridae were caught
during this project
bull Bagridae
bull Cyprinidae
Mastacembelidae
bull Pangasidae
Siluridae
Figure 2 Percentage of freshwater fish based on family obtained during this project
Family Cyprinidae (604) are the dominant family inhabiting Nanga Merit
followed by family Siluridae (226) Bagridae (151 ) Mastacembelidae (09) and
Pangasidae (09) (Fig 2) This finding is supported by Nyanti et al (1995) where they
reported approximately 66 fish caught were family Cyprinidae in Batang Rajang This
si ti n was also in accordance with Ismail (1994) who stated that the freshwater habitat
of Southeast Asia was dominated by cyprinid fish Similar results were obtained by
13
Khairul Adha et al (2009) where they reported that Batang Kerang was dominated by
Cyprinidae Approximately 33 of freshwater fish in the Western Borneo mostly are
dominated by Cyprinidae (Robert 1989)
The species belonging to family Cyprinidae found in all stations except Station 9
The absence of fish from family Cyprinidae in Station 9 is probably due to the technical
error during fish sampling The dominant genera in terms of total number of individuals
caught were represented by Cyclocheichthys (236) Rasbora (142) and Barbodes
(1 23) Nyanti et al (1999) documented genera Nematabramis and Tor representing
324 and 168 respectively as the dominant genera in Kelabit Highland This contrast
findings found between these two studies may be due to the sampling period This study
was conducted their samplings during dry season whereas Nyanti et al (1999) conducted
during raining season
In this study Nematabramis borneesis was found only in Station 1 with only two
individual In contrast with study done by Nyanti et at (1999) recorded a total of 168
individuals of Nematabramis borneesis in Kelabit Highland Station 8 has the highest
number of species with eight individual recorded whereas Station 2 4 and 5 recorded the
lowest nwnber of species with only one individuals (Table 1)
The abundance of Rasbora is coherent with the characteristics of the stations
Rasbora argyrotaemia has been found only in clear water over gravel bottom in North
Borneo (Inger amp Chin 1990) This species live in a moderate to fast flowing streams with
sandy bottoms and fast flowing rivers with gravel and rocky susbtrate (Kottelat et at
1993 Rachmatika2005) Furthermore the habitat is characterized by heavy vegetation
middotch most likely serves as a nursery grounds Sipin (2004) had carried out a study on
14
diversity of fish in Sungai Kesit Batang Lemanak Sarawak and he also recorded Rasbora
as the dominant genus
Kryptopterus limpok was found in Station 7 which recorded a total of 22
individuals compared to other stations (Table 1) Family Bagridae and Siluridae were
found at Station 7 8 and 9 which represent Sungai Merit (lower part) Sungai Rajang (east
part) and Sungai Rajang (west part) Atirah (2010) recorded to have 349ftu for turbidity
and 506 for pH water in Station 7 Khairul Adha et al (2009) reported that Bagridae and
Siluridae have the ability to adapt in water with low dissolved oxygen levels and high
acidic water Atack (2006) added that Bagridae live in downstream to the tidal brackish
waters oflarger rivers
Mastacembelidae keithi was found only at Station 8 that comprises an area of fast
flowing turbid water and muddy bottom Inger and Chin (1990) recorded that most
individuals of this species were caught over silty bottom sand gravel and rock In
addition Martin-Smith and Tan (1998) documented that at Danum Valley Eastern of
Sabah has fewer individuals of this species in which it was never abundant and only few
individuals found in leaf banks or under log debris or log During dry season some of this
species burrow into the bottom mud (Graham 1997 Berra 2001)
The distribution of fish is also influence by the biological factors of the aquatic
environment namely the availability of food items (Khairul Adha et al2009 Cyprino et
al2008 Moyle et al 2000)
The number of catch in this study was low comparing to other studies for example
Khairul Adha et al (2009) documented a total of 234 individuals were caught in Batang
g and Nyanti et al (1999) reported a total of 521 individuals were caught in Kelabit
Highland in Sarawak This may due to the effect of poisoning and low water level during
15
I
I
DECLARATION
I hereby declare that thesis is based on my original work except for quotation and citation
which have been acknowledged I also declare that it has not previously or concurrently
submitted for any other degree at UNIMAS or other institutions
()
~
Farah Adibah Esa
Aquatic Resource Science and Management
Department of Aquatic Science
Faculty of Resource Science and Technology
Universiti Malaysia Sarawak
ACKNOWLEDGEMENT
With the name of Allah the Almighty with His blessing and thoughtfulness finally I have
completed my final year project
I would like to extend my heartfelt gratitude to my supervisor Dr Ruhana Hassan
for her invaluable advice and untiring assist in preparation of this research I would like to
express my appreciation to Mr Zaidi bin Ibrahim Mr Zulkifli bin Ahmad Mr Nazri bin
Latip Mr Richard Toh and Mr Haris Norman Mustafa Kamal bin Mohd Faizal for
their help during the making of this final year project I also wish to express my sincere
appreaciation to Mohd Nasarudin Harith for his willingness to help and guide in
completing this research on time
With love and care I would like to thank my father Esa Mustaffa and my mother
Lillinoor Abdullah for their undying advice and support during my hardest moment I
would also like to express my gratefulness to Nazarudin bin lahidin for his continuous
moral support and encouragement for my final year project Last but not least I am
thankful to my coursemates Umi Salbiah Hussin Nurhanan Atiq Haron and Nur Amalina
Ahmad Rizal for their help and assistance Thank you to any individual that involved
direct or indirectly in the making of this final year project report
PUScU Alil~ l ~ A ll1fl UNIVERSITI MALAYSIA SARAWAi
TABLE OF CONTENTS
ACKNOWLEDGEMENT
TABLE OF CONTENT II
LIST OF TABLES AND FIGURES III
ABSTRACT v
10 INTRODUCTION amp OBJECTIVE
20 LITERATURE REVIEW 3
21 Freshwater Fish Composition 3
211 Freshwater Fish Composition in Peninsular Malaysia 3
212 Freshwater Fish Composition in Sarawak 4
22 Feeding Behaviors of Fish 5
23 Fish Dietary Analysis 6
30 MATERIALS AND METHODS 8
31 Study Area 8
32 Fish Sampling 8
33 Laboratory Analysis 10
331 Fish Diet Analysis 10
332 Gut Content Analysis 10
34 Data Analysis for Fish Composition 12
40 RESULTS AND DISCUSSION 13
41 Fish Assemblages 13
42 Diversity Indices 20
43 Feeding Behavior 22
50 CONCLUSION 31
60 REFERENCES 32
70 APPENDIXES 39
II
UST OF TABLES
Table 1
Table 2
Table 3
Table 4
Table 5
Table 6
Table 7
Table 8
Table 9
Table 10
Fish fauna distribution according to speCIes and stations in Nanga Merit Kapit
17
List of fish species found at each station with range values of the measurements according to the total number of species caught (N) standard length (SL) total length (TL) wet weight (WT) and standard deviation (SO) of samples collected from Nanga Merit Kapit (Mean plusmn SO)
18
H D and J values according to stations 21
Summary of feeding behavior of freshwater fish caught at Nanga Merit area
22
The food composition (Cn) for the 15 selected fish species at Nanga Merit
23
Food composition (Cn) and frequency of occurrence (F) of insect 26 and invertebrates identified
Food composition (Cn) and frequency of occurrence diatom identified
Food composition (Cn) and frequency of occurrence algae identified
Food composition (Cn) and frequency of occurrence unidentified items
Details description on the sampling sites
(F) of the 27
(F) of the 28
(F) of the 29
43
III
I
I
LIST OF FIGURES
Figure 1
Figure 2
Location of the sampling sites involved in this study
Percentage of freshwater fish based on Family obtained during this project
9
13
IV
~----------------------------------------
NANGA MERIT FISHES ASSEMBLAGES AND THEIR FEEDING BEHAVIORS
Farah Adibah Esa
Department of Aquatic Science
Faculty of Resource Science and Technology
Universiti Malaysia Sarawak
ABSTRACT
This study was conducted to identify the diversity of freshwater fish and their teeding behavior in Nanga Merit A total
of 106 individuals comprising 15 families belonging to 5 families and II genera were caught Cyprinidae and Siluridae
were identified to be the dominant family representing 604 and 226 respectively The commonly caught individuals
wcr from the genera Cyclocheichillys (236) Rasbora (142) and Bmbodrs (123) Low number of individuals
was obtained during this study most probably due to the effects of poisoning (commercial pesticides and tuba sap) and
the low water level during dry season There three main feeding behavior of fish in Nanga Merit namely carnivore
herbivore and omnivore Based on the diet analysis the major types consumed are diatoms algae and invertebrates
lwonns nematodes copepod rotifer and larvae chironomid) Data obtained during this project serves as baseline data for
freshwater fish in Sarawak
Keyword Cyprinidae freshwater fish feeding behavior Nanga Mrit
K(1jian in lelall dijalankan bag mengenalpasl kepelbagaian kOlllllili ikan air lawar dan labial pelllakanan di Nanga
Meril DlIa jenis penangkapan ikan lelali diglln(lnkan iailu pukal hanYIII dan jala Sebanyak 106 individual lereliri
duripada 5 jamiii dan II genera lelall dilangkap Cyprinidae dan Siluridae didaplli mendoll1inasi kawasan Nanga Meril
dun Ifasillg-111asing l11ewakili 604 dan 226 Ikan yang lebih kerap dilangkap lerdiri daripada genlls
Cyclocheicllyhys (236) Rasbora (42) dan Bbodes (23) lIInlali individllal yang rendah dilangkap
berilllmllngkinan kerana kesan racln (peslisida dan IIba sub) dan paras air yang rendaft kerana 11111sim kering TOdapal
liga kllmpllall labial pell1akallan iailll kallivor herbivor dln omnivor Berdaslrkan ana lisa diel makalan IIlalla yang
dinakan adalaft dialom alga dan illverlcbrale (Ullll nonalode kopepoda rOlifer dan larvae cliirolollid) Dala yang
dipero lelri di dalam projck ini adalcdl sebagai garispanduan dallillUk ikon air I war di Sarallak
Kata Kunci Cyprinidae ikan air tawar tabiat pemakanan Nanga Merit
v
CHAPTER I
10 Introduction
In Malaysia freshwater fish is the source of livelihood and is the main protein
source for many rural communities and its consumption is widespread Freshwater fish
distributions cover lenthic and lotic environment and inhabit a great variety of habitats
ranging from small torrential streams to estuarine (Mohsin amp Ambak 1983) Freshwater
fishes are found only in a specific type of habitat and its salinity is the critical factor that
separates freshwater species from marine (Atack 2006)
Studies on fish fauna had been carried out in Penang (Alfred 1963) Nouthern
Selangor peat swamp forest (Davies amp Abdullah 1989) Sayap-Kinabalu Park (Nyanti
1998) Kelabit Highlands (Nyanti et at 1999) Crocker Range Park (Khairul Adha et at
2002) North Park peat swamp forest (Shah et at 2006) and Ulu Tungud Mehau Range at
Sandakan (Amirrudin et at 2006) In Sarawak studies on fish fauna had been carried out
for Gunung Mulu National Park Bau Limestone region and Baram (Atack 2006)
The freshwater fish fauna of Peninsular Malaysia is highly diverse Zakaria-Ismail
(1992) estimated that there are approximately 300 species of freshwater fishes in Malaysia
He listed 259 speceis of native freshwater fishes in Peninsular Malaysia Most of the fish
species diversity occurs in the tropical area (Kottelat et aI 1993) Mohsin and Ambak
(1983) listed a total of382 species of freshwater fish representing 56 familes in Peninsular
Malaysia For East Malaysia study on freshwater fish was by Inger and Chin (1990) in
North Borneo
Like all other vertebrates fishes are conventionally grouped as carnovires omnivores
an herbivore on the basis of their food habit They may also be grouped as filter-feeders
detritus-feeders or as predators However most fish can adapt their diet to the available
1
food supply The study on diet and feeding habit is necessary for understanding the
strategy of digestion and the digestive strategy of fish can truly reflects its food habit in
terms of resource utilization (Chakrabarti et al 1995) Other than that the diet analysis
also important for the studies of predation competition trophic level and food web
Nanga Merit is situated in Sarawak Malaysia Its geographical coordinates are 2deg
IT O North 113 deg8 0 East It is located at Kapit division and the people in the area have
been bearing their daily routines with wet padi cultivation Fisheries activities in Nanga
Merit area are carried out in small scale basis either to generate extra income or for
domestic consumption
There are several studies on freshwater fish in Sarawak for example Nyanti et al
(1 999) Lee (2004) Sipin (2005) Atack (2006) and Khairul Adha et al (2009) However
there is no proper documentation on freshwater fish in Nanga Merit Therefore this study
aims to identify the diversity of freshwater fish at Nanga Merit area In addition this study
also aims to detennine feeding behaviors of freshwater fish caught in Nanga Merit Data
obtained in this study will serve as baseline data of freshwater fish in Sarawak
2
CHAPTER II
20 Literature Review
21Freshwater fish composition
211 Freshwater fish composition in Peninsular Malaysia
Mohsin and Ambak (1983) divided Peninsular Malaysia into three main divisions
in based from the view of fish geography and their distribution North-West division
North-East and Central division and Southern division The North-West division has the
least number of fish species compared to the other two divisions due to paddy cultivation
and few rivers have dried up
The largest among the three divisions is North-East and Central division and is
bound by Kedah-Singgora north Rompin to Pahang in the south There are many manshy
made lakes and only one natural lake in Malaysia which is Tasik Chini There are a few
scattered freshwater swamp such as Tasek Bendera In consequence of the many water
bodies present in this divisions it is expected to have greatest abundance of fish fauna
Southern division is mostly dominated by Rasbora spp and the rivers in this division are
slow moving (Mohsin amp Ambak 1983)
According to Mohsin and Ambak (1983) rivers can be divided into zones upper
middle and lower zone The upper zone has a high current velocity high concentration a
sandy bed and a small volume of water carrying The fish fauna commonly found in this
zone are Rasbora sumatrana R elegans Puntius binotatus Luciosoma setigerum and
omaloptera orthogoniata The middle zone has the most fish fauna The lower zone is
the most polluted zone with very high silt loads and its flow rate is influenced by tides
3
212 Freshwater fish composition in Sarawak
Borneo is one of the most diversity areas of the world with many species being
endemic which is found only at a precise location either to the island or to the region
(Atack 2006) The distribution of fishes on Borneo offers a clue to distinguish old and
new elements of fish occurring in the Sunda area (Taki 1975) Atack (2006) stated that
Sarawak of254 freshwater fishes Sarawak River is complex therefore it supports a mix of
freshwater and estuarine species but mostly consists of freshwater species around
Kampung Paroh area
Sarawak River is relatively large river with two tributaries that run through the Bau
limestone region which are Sarawak Kiri and Sarawak Kanan The Kuching Barrage
functions as to control the Sarawak River maintaining a stable water level at the
waterfront and preventing saltwater contamination to water supply by changes of salinity
daily due to flushing of large influx of saltwater This periodic flushing will lead to a
mixed population of freshwater and saltwater fish species upstream of the Barrage (Atack
2006)
According to Nyanti et at (1999) Tor spp would seek shelter in tributaries which
have clear water and relatively low current velocity Sarawaks inland fisheries include a
number of highly valued species such as the cyprinid family locally known as Empurau
and Semah Species other than carp such as Tapah (Wallago sp) and herring locally
known as Terubok (Tenualosa sp) found to have commercial values to the local
community Tor tambroides (Empurau) is a large herbivorous carp that can be found in
clear rocky streams in the upland forest It was once found in most Sarawaks major river
su as Rejang Baram Limbang and the Ai These species are threatened by activities
such as overfishing and habitat degradation (Atack 2006)
4
Pusat Khidmat Maldumat Akademik UNIVERSITI MALAYSIA SABAWAK
22 Feeding Behaviour of Fish
The study of feeding ecology is a essential tool to understand fish roles within their
ecosystems (Hajisamaea et ai 2003) In the same time study of the food and feeding
behavior of freshwater fish is a matter of continuous research since it the basis for
development of a successful fisheries management programme on fish capture and culture
From its food a fish must obtain both macro- and micronutrients (Halver 1989) The range
of potential foods that are available reflects the physical environment The range taken by
a species depends on its ability to detect acquire and process the food (Wootton 1992)
Habitat type is also a significant aspect which influences the feeding approach of a species
by determining foraging opportunities Fishes tend to prefer habitat which has less prey
and capturing of abundant food (Hajisamaea et ai 2003)
Mohsin and Ambak (1983) classified fishes into three main categories which are
herbivore carnivore and omnivore Most of the Malaysia fishes are omnivorous Puntius
gonnionotus Mystus nemurus M villatus Clarias spp Tor tambroides and Chonerhinus
modestus are some of the example The second largest group of fishes is carnivorous that
feed on other animals such as benthic organisms invertebrates crustaceans other fishes
followed by herbivores which eats aquatic plants small or big algae fruits and vegetation
that have dropped into the water (Atack 2006) Many species of fish that live in the
surface waters of the sea feed on plankton which is both zooplankton and phytoplankton
and it can be describe as p1anktivores (Atack 2006)
Based on detail analysis of gut contents it can be concluded that terrestrial insects
and plants are among the majority of food types eaten by freshwater fish in Peninsular
Malaysia (Mohsin amp Ambak 1983) Data on different food items consumed by fish may
e rually result in identification of stable food preference and in creation of trophic
5
models as a tool to understand complex ecosystems (Lopez-Peralta et at 2002 Bachok et
at 2004)
Fish feeding activity is controlled by environments behavior and physiology Fish
diets varies according to area prey availability season time of day and fish size Bhuiyan
et ai (2006) states that the utilization of food and rate of digestion is also influence by the
quality and quantity of available food organisms In general most of a fishs diet consists
ofbenthic invertebrates often supplemented by terrestrial invertebrates
Studies on natural feeding of fish permit to identify the trophic feeding
composition structure and stability of food webs relationships present in aquatic
ecosystems identifying In the same time the study of food and feeding habits of
freshwater fish species is a subject of continuous research because it constituted the basis
for the development of a successful fisheries management program on fish capture and
culture (Oronsaye et ai 2005) Studies on diet composition are important in community
ecology because the use of resources by organisms has a major influence on population
interactions within a community (Mequilla 2007)
24 Fish dietary analysis
Through the examination of the gut content analysis the feeding behavior of
freshwater fishes can be determined The analyses were limited to food items found in the
gut and esophagus to increase the possibility that the food item had been eaten recently and
in the habitat where the fish were caught (Wennhage et aI 2002 Tan 2004 Hasnidah
2005) Most studies of the feeding ecology of teleost fish in their natural habitats have
6
emphasized the temporal and systematic aspects of a particular species (Hofer amp Schiemer
198 1 )
For dietary analysis only the stomach content is considered most important This
analysis is significant for the study of predation competitions trophic level and food web
in the ecosystem (Anderson 2000 Tan 2004 Luna et al 2008) Furthermore without the
knowledge of dietary relationships among organism community structure and population
interaction are difficult to assume (Layman amp Silliman 2002)
During the feeding activity one should consider the percentage of empty stomach
in a sample as well as composition and state of digestion of each prey in each fish gut at
each sampling since feeding activity is controlled by environments behavior and
physiology There are three methods of gut content analysis which are numerical
volumetric and gravimetric analysis However the suitable methods depends on the study
and food type to be analyzed (Windwell et al 1978 Tan 2004 Hasnidah 2005)
7
CHAPTER III
30 Materials and Methods
31 Study Area
This study was carried out at Nanga Merit Kapit Sarawak (Fig 31) Study areas
covers nine stations namely station 1 (Sg Sebulut) station 2 (Sg Seririt) station 3 (Sg
Beluti) station 4 (Sg Temulan) station 5 (Sg Merit- upper area) station 6 (Sg Meritshy
middle area) station 7 (Sg Merit- lower area) station 8 (Sg Rajang-east part) and station
9 (Sg Rajang- west part) (Fig 1)
32 Fish sampling
Fishes were collected using cast net with stretched mesh size of I5cm 2m long In
several stations gill net with stretched mesh of 15cm was used All species were
identified follow those from Mohsin and Ambak (1983) Robert (1989) Inger and Chin
(1990) and Kottelat et ai (1993) Photograph of each species was taken for record The
total length (em) standard length (cm) was measured using measuring board and the wet
weight (gram) was measured using weighting scale and recorded accordingly The
specimens were preserved in 10 formalin in the field and later replaced with 70
ethanol after two weeks in the laboratory
Fish gut was dissected from each species after identification accomplished The
guts were pre-mixed into 10 formalin and then the contents were completely emptied
into labeled Petri dish containing 70 ethanol AU species were identified follows those
Kot clat et ai (1993) Data analysis of biological indices such as Shannon-Weiner
8
Diversity Index (H) Margalef Richness Index (D) and Pielou Similarity Index (J) were
used
N
T
Figure 1 Locations of the sampling sites involved in this study
Keys
1- Sungai Sebulut 4- Sungai Temulan 7- Sungai Merit (lower)
2- Sungai Seririt 5- Sungai Merit (upper) 8- Sungai Rajang (east part)
- Sungai Beluti 6- Sungai Merit (middle) 9- Sungai Rajang (west part)
9
~LIlDOlratlory analysis
331Fish diet analysis
Based on the results of gut content analysis the diet of freshwater fish species at
The preserved gut was washed with tap water and was then cut open and the entire
contents were removed and were placed on the Petri dish The gut contents of each
were analyzed under the compound microscope Identification of the gut
IfllllOUIiJ Was made based on the morphology characteristics of each organism The number
item in the contents will be counted in a grid Petri dish Items were identified to the
taxonomic level and unidentified food materials were counted as unidentified The
iIIIliticatl()o of the gut contents will be made based on Sze (1993) and Pechenik (2000)
332Gut content analysis
The guts were dissected and the contents were examined under compound
OS(ope The following categories of contents are considered fish insects (both
and terrestrial) zooplankton microbenthos macrophytes filamentous algae
and planktonic) other phytoplankton and pollen and seeds
Analysis of gut using dissection was conducted using a sharp and fine dissecting
for the incision Once the intact gut has been dissected it was place on a clean
rosco~1e slide The gut contents were tease from the gut or foregut with a fine
_lCtiIltg pin or fine forceps and disperse in slide It was placed a cover slip over the
pressed gently to spread the gut material and then dry the slide on a slide
10
warmer The gut contents was examine and identified its components as accurately as
possible
To measure the gut contents of the gut and to estimate the frequency of occurrence
in the stomach numerical (quantitative) method will be used The diet analysis will be
analyzed on their Food Composition (Cn) and Frequency of Occurrence (F) (Hyslop 1980
Tan 2004 Hasnidah 2005)
Frequency of Occurrence
To estimate the proportion of the population that feed on the particular food items
F =(AlB) x 100
Where
A =Number of guts containing a particular food item
B =Total number of guts being analyzed
Food Composition
The comparison of numerical percentage in the types of food inside the guts and the
potential of food taken by fishes will give the information about the food selection
Cn =(CD) x 100
Where
C = Number of food items of a given type in all specimens
D =Total number of all food items that are found in all specimens
11
34 Data analysis for Fish Composition
To analyze the fish composition analysis of biological indices such as Shannon-Weiner
Diversity Index (H) Margalef Richness Index (D) and Pielou Similarity Index (J) will be
used as follows
Shannon and Weiner Diversity Index (H) ( Shannon and Weaver 1963)
H =-Ipi In pi
Where
pi = NilN (Ni = Total number of individuals of species i)
N = total number of individuals of all species
Margalef Richness Index (D) (Margalef 1968)
D= S-1I10g N
where
S = total number of species
N =total number of individuals of all species
Pielou Similarity Index (J) (Pielou 1966)
J= HI In S
Where
H = diversity index
S =total number of species
12
CHAPTER IV
40 RESULT AND DISCUSSION
41 Fish Assemblages
A total of 106 individua1s from fifteen species belonging to 5 families and 11 genus
namely Bagridae Cyprinidae Mastacembelidae Pangasidae and Siluridae were caught
during this project
bull Bagridae
bull Cyprinidae
Mastacembelidae
bull Pangasidae
Siluridae
Figure 2 Percentage of freshwater fish based on family obtained during this project
Family Cyprinidae (604) are the dominant family inhabiting Nanga Merit
followed by family Siluridae (226) Bagridae (151 ) Mastacembelidae (09) and
Pangasidae (09) (Fig 2) This finding is supported by Nyanti et al (1995) where they
reported approximately 66 fish caught were family Cyprinidae in Batang Rajang This
si ti n was also in accordance with Ismail (1994) who stated that the freshwater habitat
of Southeast Asia was dominated by cyprinid fish Similar results were obtained by
13
Khairul Adha et al (2009) where they reported that Batang Kerang was dominated by
Cyprinidae Approximately 33 of freshwater fish in the Western Borneo mostly are
dominated by Cyprinidae (Robert 1989)
The species belonging to family Cyprinidae found in all stations except Station 9
The absence of fish from family Cyprinidae in Station 9 is probably due to the technical
error during fish sampling The dominant genera in terms of total number of individuals
caught were represented by Cyclocheichthys (236) Rasbora (142) and Barbodes
(1 23) Nyanti et al (1999) documented genera Nematabramis and Tor representing
324 and 168 respectively as the dominant genera in Kelabit Highland This contrast
findings found between these two studies may be due to the sampling period This study
was conducted their samplings during dry season whereas Nyanti et al (1999) conducted
during raining season
In this study Nematabramis borneesis was found only in Station 1 with only two
individual In contrast with study done by Nyanti et at (1999) recorded a total of 168
individuals of Nematabramis borneesis in Kelabit Highland Station 8 has the highest
number of species with eight individual recorded whereas Station 2 4 and 5 recorded the
lowest nwnber of species with only one individuals (Table 1)
The abundance of Rasbora is coherent with the characteristics of the stations
Rasbora argyrotaemia has been found only in clear water over gravel bottom in North
Borneo (Inger amp Chin 1990) This species live in a moderate to fast flowing streams with
sandy bottoms and fast flowing rivers with gravel and rocky susbtrate (Kottelat et at
1993 Rachmatika2005) Furthermore the habitat is characterized by heavy vegetation
middotch most likely serves as a nursery grounds Sipin (2004) had carried out a study on
14
diversity of fish in Sungai Kesit Batang Lemanak Sarawak and he also recorded Rasbora
as the dominant genus
Kryptopterus limpok was found in Station 7 which recorded a total of 22
individuals compared to other stations (Table 1) Family Bagridae and Siluridae were
found at Station 7 8 and 9 which represent Sungai Merit (lower part) Sungai Rajang (east
part) and Sungai Rajang (west part) Atirah (2010) recorded to have 349ftu for turbidity
and 506 for pH water in Station 7 Khairul Adha et al (2009) reported that Bagridae and
Siluridae have the ability to adapt in water with low dissolved oxygen levels and high
acidic water Atack (2006) added that Bagridae live in downstream to the tidal brackish
waters oflarger rivers
Mastacembelidae keithi was found only at Station 8 that comprises an area of fast
flowing turbid water and muddy bottom Inger and Chin (1990) recorded that most
individuals of this species were caught over silty bottom sand gravel and rock In
addition Martin-Smith and Tan (1998) documented that at Danum Valley Eastern of
Sabah has fewer individuals of this species in which it was never abundant and only few
individuals found in leaf banks or under log debris or log During dry season some of this
species burrow into the bottom mud (Graham 1997 Berra 2001)
The distribution of fish is also influence by the biological factors of the aquatic
environment namely the availability of food items (Khairul Adha et al2009 Cyprino et
al2008 Moyle et al 2000)
The number of catch in this study was low comparing to other studies for example
Khairul Adha et al (2009) documented a total of 234 individuals were caught in Batang
g and Nyanti et al (1999) reported a total of 521 individuals were caught in Kelabit
Highland in Sarawak This may due to the effect of poisoning and low water level during
15
ACKNOWLEDGEMENT
With the name of Allah the Almighty with His blessing and thoughtfulness finally I have
completed my final year project
I would like to extend my heartfelt gratitude to my supervisor Dr Ruhana Hassan
for her invaluable advice and untiring assist in preparation of this research I would like to
express my appreciation to Mr Zaidi bin Ibrahim Mr Zulkifli bin Ahmad Mr Nazri bin
Latip Mr Richard Toh and Mr Haris Norman Mustafa Kamal bin Mohd Faizal for
their help during the making of this final year project I also wish to express my sincere
appreaciation to Mohd Nasarudin Harith for his willingness to help and guide in
completing this research on time
With love and care I would like to thank my father Esa Mustaffa and my mother
Lillinoor Abdullah for their undying advice and support during my hardest moment I
would also like to express my gratefulness to Nazarudin bin lahidin for his continuous
moral support and encouragement for my final year project Last but not least I am
thankful to my coursemates Umi Salbiah Hussin Nurhanan Atiq Haron and Nur Amalina
Ahmad Rizal for their help and assistance Thank you to any individual that involved
direct or indirectly in the making of this final year project report
PUScU Alil~ l ~ A ll1fl UNIVERSITI MALAYSIA SARAWAi
TABLE OF CONTENTS
ACKNOWLEDGEMENT
TABLE OF CONTENT II
LIST OF TABLES AND FIGURES III
ABSTRACT v
10 INTRODUCTION amp OBJECTIVE
20 LITERATURE REVIEW 3
21 Freshwater Fish Composition 3
211 Freshwater Fish Composition in Peninsular Malaysia 3
212 Freshwater Fish Composition in Sarawak 4
22 Feeding Behaviors of Fish 5
23 Fish Dietary Analysis 6
30 MATERIALS AND METHODS 8
31 Study Area 8
32 Fish Sampling 8
33 Laboratory Analysis 10
331 Fish Diet Analysis 10
332 Gut Content Analysis 10
34 Data Analysis for Fish Composition 12
40 RESULTS AND DISCUSSION 13
41 Fish Assemblages 13
42 Diversity Indices 20
43 Feeding Behavior 22
50 CONCLUSION 31
60 REFERENCES 32
70 APPENDIXES 39
II
UST OF TABLES
Table 1
Table 2
Table 3
Table 4
Table 5
Table 6
Table 7
Table 8
Table 9
Table 10
Fish fauna distribution according to speCIes and stations in Nanga Merit Kapit
17
List of fish species found at each station with range values of the measurements according to the total number of species caught (N) standard length (SL) total length (TL) wet weight (WT) and standard deviation (SO) of samples collected from Nanga Merit Kapit (Mean plusmn SO)
18
H D and J values according to stations 21
Summary of feeding behavior of freshwater fish caught at Nanga Merit area
22
The food composition (Cn) for the 15 selected fish species at Nanga Merit
23
Food composition (Cn) and frequency of occurrence (F) of insect 26 and invertebrates identified
Food composition (Cn) and frequency of occurrence diatom identified
Food composition (Cn) and frequency of occurrence algae identified
Food composition (Cn) and frequency of occurrence unidentified items
Details description on the sampling sites
(F) of the 27
(F) of the 28
(F) of the 29
43
III
I
I
LIST OF FIGURES
Figure 1
Figure 2
Location of the sampling sites involved in this study
Percentage of freshwater fish based on Family obtained during this project
9
13
IV
~----------------------------------------
NANGA MERIT FISHES ASSEMBLAGES AND THEIR FEEDING BEHAVIORS
Farah Adibah Esa
Department of Aquatic Science
Faculty of Resource Science and Technology
Universiti Malaysia Sarawak
ABSTRACT
This study was conducted to identify the diversity of freshwater fish and their teeding behavior in Nanga Merit A total
of 106 individuals comprising 15 families belonging to 5 families and II genera were caught Cyprinidae and Siluridae
were identified to be the dominant family representing 604 and 226 respectively The commonly caught individuals
wcr from the genera Cyclocheichillys (236) Rasbora (142) and Bmbodrs (123) Low number of individuals
was obtained during this study most probably due to the effects of poisoning (commercial pesticides and tuba sap) and
the low water level during dry season There three main feeding behavior of fish in Nanga Merit namely carnivore
herbivore and omnivore Based on the diet analysis the major types consumed are diatoms algae and invertebrates
lwonns nematodes copepod rotifer and larvae chironomid) Data obtained during this project serves as baseline data for
freshwater fish in Sarawak
Keyword Cyprinidae freshwater fish feeding behavior Nanga Mrit
K(1jian in lelall dijalankan bag mengenalpasl kepelbagaian kOlllllili ikan air lawar dan labial pelllakanan di Nanga
Meril DlIa jenis penangkapan ikan lelali diglln(lnkan iailu pukal hanYIII dan jala Sebanyak 106 individual lereliri
duripada 5 jamiii dan II genera lelall dilangkap Cyprinidae dan Siluridae didaplli mendoll1inasi kawasan Nanga Meril
dun Ifasillg-111asing l11ewakili 604 dan 226 Ikan yang lebih kerap dilangkap lerdiri daripada genlls
Cyclocheicllyhys (236) Rasbora (42) dan Bbodes (23) lIInlali individllal yang rendah dilangkap
berilllmllngkinan kerana kesan racln (peslisida dan IIba sub) dan paras air yang rendaft kerana 11111sim kering TOdapal
liga kllmpllall labial pell1akallan iailll kallivor herbivor dln omnivor Berdaslrkan ana lisa diel makalan IIlalla yang
dinakan adalaft dialom alga dan illverlcbrale (Ullll nonalode kopepoda rOlifer dan larvae cliirolollid) Dala yang
dipero lelri di dalam projck ini adalcdl sebagai garispanduan dallillUk ikon air I war di Sarallak
Kata Kunci Cyprinidae ikan air tawar tabiat pemakanan Nanga Merit
v
CHAPTER I
10 Introduction
In Malaysia freshwater fish is the source of livelihood and is the main protein
source for many rural communities and its consumption is widespread Freshwater fish
distributions cover lenthic and lotic environment and inhabit a great variety of habitats
ranging from small torrential streams to estuarine (Mohsin amp Ambak 1983) Freshwater
fishes are found only in a specific type of habitat and its salinity is the critical factor that
separates freshwater species from marine (Atack 2006)
Studies on fish fauna had been carried out in Penang (Alfred 1963) Nouthern
Selangor peat swamp forest (Davies amp Abdullah 1989) Sayap-Kinabalu Park (Nyanti
1998) Kelabit Highlands (Nyanti et at 1999) Crocker Range Park (Khairul Adha et at
2002) North Park peat swamp forest (Shah et at 2006) and Ulu Tungud Mehau Range at
Sandakan (Amirrudin et at 2006) In Sarawak studies on fish fauna had been carried out
for Gunung Mulu National Park Bau Limestone region and Baram (Atack 2006)
The freshwater fish fauna of Peninsular Malaysia is highly diverse Zakaria-Ismail
(1992) estimated that there are approximately 300 species of freshwater fishes in Malaysia
He listed 259 speceis of native freshwater fishes in Peninsular Malaysia Most of the fish
species diversity occurs in the tropical area (Kottelat et aI 1993) Mohsin and Ambak
(1983) listed a total of382 species of freshwater fish representing 56 familes in Peninsular
Malaysia For East Malaysia study on freshwater fish was by Inger and Chin (1990) in
North Borneo
Like all other vertebrates fishes are conventionally grouped as carnovires omnivores
an herbivore on the basis of their food habit They may also be grouped as filter-feeders
detritus-feeders or as predators However most fish can adapt their diet to the available
1
food supply The study on diet and feeding habit is necessary for understanding the
strategy of digestion and the digestive strategy of fish can truly reflects its food habit in
terms of resource utilization (Chakrabarti et al 1995) Other than that the diet analysis
also important for the studies of predation competition trophic level and food web
Nanga Merit is situated in Sarawak Malaysia Its geographical coordinates are 2deg
IT O North 113 deg8 0 East It is located at Kapit division and the people in the area have
been bearing their daily routines with wet padi cultivation Fisheries activities in Nanga
Merit area are carried out in small scale basis either to generate extra income or for
domestic consumption
There are several studies on freshwater fish in Sarawak for example Nyanti et al
(1 999) Lee (2004) Sipin (2005) Atack (2006) and Khairul Adha et al (2009) However
there is no proper documentation on freshwater fish in Nanga Merit Therefore this study
aims to identify the diversity of freshwater fish at Nanga Merit area In addition this study
also aims to detennine feeding behaviors of freshwater fish caught in Nanga Merit Data
obtained in this study will serve as baseline data of freshwater fish in Sarawak
2
CHAPTER II
20 Literature Review
21Freshwater fish composition
211 Freshwater fish composition in Peninsular Malaysia
Mohsin and Ambak (1983) divided Peninsular Malaysia into three main divisions
in based from the view of fish geography and their distribution North-West division
North-East and Central division and Southern division The North-West division has the
least number of fish species compared to the other two divisions due to paddy cultivation
and few rivers have dried up
The largest among the three divisions is North-East and Central division and is
bound by Kedah-Singgora north Rompin to Pahang in the south There are many manshy
made lakes and only one natural lake in Malaysia which is Tasik Chini There are a few
scattered freshwater swamp such as Tasek Bendera In consequence of the many water
bodies present in this divisions it is expected to have greatest abundance of fish fauna
Southern division is mostly dominated by Rasbora spp and the rivers in this division are
slow moving (Mohsin amp Ambak 1983)
According to Mohsin and Ambak (1983) rivers can be divided into zones upper
middle and lower zone The upper zone has a high current velocity high concentration a
sandy bed and a small volume of water carrying The fish fauna commonly found in this
zone are Rasbora sumatrana R elegans Puntius binotatus Luciosoma setigerum and
omaloptera orthogoniata The middle zone has the most fish fauna The lower zone is
the most polluted zone with very high silt loads and its flow rate is influenced by tides
3
212 Freshwater fish composition in Sarawak
Borneo is one of the most diversity areas of the world with many species being
endemic which is found only at a precise location either to the island or to the region
(Atack 2006) The distribution of fishes on Borneo offers a clue to distinguish old and
new elements of fish occurring in the Sunda area (Taki 1975) Atack (2006) stated that
Sarawak of254 freshwater fishes Sarawak River is complex therefore it supports a mix of
freshwater and estuarine species but mostly consists of freshwater species around
Kampung Paroh area
Sarawak River is relatively large river with two tributaries that run through the Bau
limestone region which are Sarawak Kiri and Sarawak Kanan The Kuching Barrage
functions as to control the Sarawak River maintaining a stable water level at the
waterfront and preventing saltwater contamination to water supply by changes of salinity
daily due to flushing of large influx of saltwater This periodic flushing will lead to a
mixed population of freshwater and saltwater fish species upstream of the Barrage (Atack
2006)
According to Nyanti et at (1999) Tor spp would seek shelter in tributaries which
have clear water and relatively low current velocity Sarawaks inland fisheries include a
number of highly valued species such as the cyprinid family locally known as Empurau
and Semah Species other than carp such as Tapah (Wallago sp) and herring locally
known as Terubok (Tenualosa sp) found to have commercial values to the local
community Tor tambroides (Empurau) is a large herbivorous carp that can be found in
clear rocky streams in the upland forest It was once found in most Sarawaks major river
su as Rejang Baram Limbang and the Ai These species are threatened by activities
such as overfishing and habitat degradation (Atack 2006)
4
Pusat Khidmat Maldumat Akademik UNIVERSITI MALAYSIA SABAWAK
22 Feeding Behaviour of Fish
The study of feeding ecology is a essential tool to understand fish roles within their
ecosystems (Hajisamaea et ai 2003) In the same time study of the food and feeding
behavior of freshwater fish is a matter of continuous research since it the basis for
development of a successful fisheries management programme on fish capture and culture
From its food a fish must obtain both macro- and micronutrients (Halver 1989) The range
of potential foods that are available reflects the physical environment The range taken by
a species depends on its ability to detect acquire and process the food (Wootton 1992)
Habitat type is also a significant aspect which influences the feeding approach of a species
by determining foraging opportunities Fishes tend to prefer habitat which has less prey
and capturing of abundant food (Hajisamaea et ai 2003)
Mohsin and Ambak (1983) classified fishes into three main categories which are
herbivore carnivore and omnivore Most of the Malaysia fishes are omnivorous Puntius
gonnionotus Mystus nemurus M villatus Clarias spp Tor tambroides and Chonerhinus
modestus are some of the example The second largest group of fishes is carnivorous that
feed on other animals such as benthic organisms invertebrates crustaceans other fishes
followed by herbivores which eats aquatic plants small or big algae fruits and vegetation
that have dropped into the water (Atack 2006) Many species of fish that live in the
surface waters of the sea feed on plankton which is both zooplankton and phytoplankton
and it can be describe as p1anktivores (Atack 2006)
Based on detail analysis of gut contents it can be concluded that terrestrial insects
and plants are among the majority of food types eaten by freshwater fish in Peninsular
Malaysia (Mohsin amp Ambak 1983) Data on different food items consumed by fish may
e rually result in identification of stable food preference and in creation of trophic
5
models as a tool to understand complex ecosystems (Lopez-Peralta et at 2002 Bachok et
at 2004)
Fish feeding activity is controlled by environments behavior and physiology Fish
diets varies according to area prey availability season time of day and fish size Bhuiyan
et ai (2006) states that the utilization of food and rate of digestion is also influence by the
quality and quantity of available food organisms In general most of a fishs diet consists
ofbenthic invertebrates often supplemented by terrestrial invertebrates
Studies on natural feeding of fish permit to identify the trophic feeding
composition structure and stability of food webs relationships present in aquatic
ecosystems identifying In the same time the study of food and feeding habits of
freshwater fish species is a subject of continuous research because it constituted the basis
for the development of a successful fisheries management program on fish capture and
culture (Oronsaye et ai 2005) Studies on diet composition are important in community
ecology because the use of resources by organisms has a major influence on population
interactions within a community (Mequilla 2007)
24 Fish dietary analysis
Through the examination of the gut content analysis the feeding behavior of
freshwater fishes can be determined The analyses were limited to food items found in the
gut and esophagus to increase the possibility that the food item had been eaten recently and
in the habitat where the fish were caught (Wennhage et aI 2002 Tan 2004 Hasnidah
2005) Most studies of the feeding ecology of teleost fish in their natural habitats have
6
emphasized the temporal and systematic aspects of a particular species (Hofer amp Schiemer
198 1 )
For dietary analysis only the stomach content is considered most important This
analysis is significant for the study of predation competitions trophic level and food web
in the ecosystem (Anderson 2000 Tan 2004 Luna et al 2008) Furthermore without the
knowledge of dietary relationships among organism community structure and population
interaction are difficult to assume (Layman amp Silliman 2002)
During the feeding activity one should consider the percentage of empty stomach
in a sample as well as composition and state of digestion of each prey in each fish gut at
each sampling since feeding activity is controlled by environments behavior and
physiology There are three methods of gut content analysis which are numerical
volumetric and gravimetric analysis However the suitable methods depends on the study
and food type to be analyzed (Windwell et al 1978 Tan 2004 Hasnidah 2005)
7
CHAPTER III
30 Materials and Methods
31 Study Area
This study was carried out at Nanga Merit Kapit Sarawak (Fig 31) Study areas
covers nine stations namely station 1 (Sg Sebulut) station 2 (Sg Seririt) station 3 (Sg
Beluti) station 4 (Sg Temulan) station 5 (Sg Merit- upper area) station 6 (Sg Meritshy
middle area) station 7 (Sg Merit- lower area) station 8 (Sg Rajang-east part) and station
9 (Sg Rajang- west part) (Fig 1)
32 Fish sampling
Fishes were collected using cast net with stretched mesh size of I5cm 2m long In
several stations gill net with stretched mesh of 15cm was used All species were
identified follow those from Mohsin and Ambak (1983) Robert (1989) Inger and Chin
(1990) and Kottelat et ai (1993) Photograph of each species was taken for record The
total length (em) standard length (cm) was measured using measuring board and the wet
weight (gram) was measured using weighting scale and recorded accordingly The
specimens were preserved in 10 formalin in the field and later replaced with 70
ethanol after two weeks in the laboratory
Fish gut was dissected from each species after identification accomplished The
guts were pre-mixed into 10 formalin and then the contents were completely emptied
into labeled Petri dish containing 70 ethanol AU species were identified follows those
Kot clat et ai (1993) Data analysis of biological indices such as Shannon-Weiner
8
Diversity Index (H) Margalef Richness Index (D) and Pielou Similarity Index (J) were
used
N
T
Figure 1 Locations of the sampling sites involved in this study
Keys
1- Sungai Sebulut 4- Sungai Temulan 7- Sungai Merit (lower)
2- Sungai Seririt 5- Sungai Merit (upper) 8- Sungai Rajang (east part)
- Sungai Beluti 6- Sungai Merit (middle) 9- Sungai Rajang (west part)
9
~LIlDOlratlory analysis
331Fish diet analysis
Based on the results of gut content analysis the diet of freshwater fish species at
The preserved gut was washed with tap water and was then cut open and the entire
contents were removed and were placed on the Petri dish The gut contents of each
were analyzed under the compound microscope Identification of the gut
IfllllOUIiJ Was made based on the morphology characteristics of each organism The number
item in the contents will be counted in a grid Petri dish Items were identified to the
taxonomic level and unidentified food materials were counted as unidentified The
iIIIliticatl()o of the gut contents will be made based on Sze (1993) and Pechenik (2000)
332Gut content analysis
The guts were dissected and the contents were examined under compound
OS(ope The following categories of contents are considered fish insects (both
and terrestrial) zooplankton microbenthos macrophytes filamentous algae
and planktonic) other phytoplankton and pollen and seeds
Analysis of gut using dissection was conducted using a sharp and fine dissecting
for the incision Once the intact gut has been dissected it was place on a clean
rosco~1e slide The gut contents were tease from the gut or foregut with a fine
_lCtiIltg pin or fine forceps and disperse in slide It was placed a cover slip over the
pressed gently to spread the gut material and then dry the slide on a slide
10
warmer The gut contents was examine and identified its components as accurately as
possible
To measure the gut contents of the gut and to estimate the frequency of occurrence
in the stomach numerical (quantitative) method will be used The diet analysis will be
analyzed on their Food Composition (Cn) and Frequency of Occurrence (F) (Hyslop 1980
Tan 2004 Hasnidah 2005)
Frequency of Occurrence
To estimate the proportion of the population that feed on the particular food items
F =(AlB) x 100
Where
A =Number of guts containing a particular food item
B =Total number of guts being analyzed
Food Composition
The comparison of numerical percentage in the types of food inside the guts and the
potential of food taken by fishes will give the information about the food selection
Cn =(CD) x 100
Where
C = Number of food items of a given type in all specimens
D =Total number of all food items that are found in all specimens
11
34 Data analysis for Fish Composition
To analyze the fish composition analysis of biological indices such as Shannon-Weiner
Diversity Index (H) Margalef Richness Index (D) and Pielou Similarity Index (J) will be
used as follows
Shannon and Weiner Diversity Index (H) ( Shannon and Weaver 1963)
H =-Ipi In pi
Where
pi = NilN (Ni = Total number of individuals of species i)
N = total number of individuals of all species
Margalef Richness Index (D) (Margalef 1968)
D= S-1I10g N
where
S = total number of species
N =total number of individuals of all species
Pielou Similarity Index (J) (Pielou 1966)
J= HI In S
Where
H = diversity index
S =total number of species
12
CHAPTER IV
40 RESULT AND DISCUSSION
41 Fish Assemblages
A total of 106 individua1s from fifteen species belonging to 5 families and 11 genus
namely Bagridae Cyprinidae Mastacembelidae Pangasidae and Siluridae were caught
during this project
bull Bagridae
bull Cyprinidae
Mastacembelidae
bull Pangasidae
Siluridae
Figure 2 Percentage of freshwater fish based on family obtained during this project
Family Cyprinidae (604) are the dominant family inhabiting Nanga Merit
followed by family Siluridae (226) Bagridae (151 ) Mastacembelidae (09) and
Pangasidae (09) (Fig 2) This finding is supported by Nyanti et al (1995) where they
reported approximately 66 fish caught were family Cyprinidae in Batang Rajang This
si ti n was also in accordance with Ismail (1994) who stated that the freshwater habitat
of Southeast Asia was dominated by cyprinid fish Similar results were obtained by
13
Khairul Adha et al (2009) where they reported that Batang Kerang was dominated by
Cyprinidae Approximately 33 of freshwater fish in the Western Borneo mostly are
dominated by Cyprinidae (Robert 1989)
The species belonging to family Cyprinidae found in all stations except Station 9
The absence of fish from family Cyprinidae in Station 9 is probably due to the technical
error during fish sampling The dominant genera in terms of total number of individuals
caught were represented by Cyclocheichthys (236) Rasbora (142) and Barbodes
(1 23) Nyanti et al (1999) documented genera Nematabramis and Tor representing
324 and 168 respectively as the dominant genera in Kelabit Highland This contrast
findings found between these two studies may be due to the sampling period This study
was conducted their samplings during dry season whereas Nyanti et al (1999) conducted
during raining season
In this study Nematabramis borneesis was found only in Station 1 with only two
individual In contrast with study done by Nyanti et at (1999) recorded a total of 168
individuals of Nematabramis borneesis in Kelabit Highland Station 8 has the highest
number of species with eight individual recorded whereas Station 2 4 and 5 recorded the
lowest nwnber of species with only one individuals (Table 1)
The abundance of Rasbora is coherent with the characteristics of the stations
Rasbora argyrotaemia has been found only in clear water over gravel bottom in North
Borneo (Inger amp Chin 1990) This species live in a moderate to fast flowing streams with
sandy bottoms and fast flowing rivers with gravel and rocky susbtrate (Kottelat et at
1993 Rachmatika2005) Furthermore the habitat is characterized by heavy vegetation
middotch most likely serves as a nursery grounds Sipin (2004) had carried out a study on
14
diversity of fish in Sungai Kesit Batang Lemanak Sarawak and he also recorded Rasbora
as the dominant genus
Kryptopterus limpok was found in Station 7 which recorded a total of 22
individuals compared to other stations (Table 1) Family Bagridae and Siluridae were
found at Station 7 8 and 9 which represent Sungai Merit (lower part) Sungai Rajang (east
part) and Sungai Rajang (west part) Atirah (2010) recorded to have 349ftu for turbidity
and 506 for pH water in Station 7 Khairul Adha et al (2009) reported that Bagridae and
Siluridae have the ability to adapt in water with low dissolved oxygen levels and high
acidic water Atack (2006) added that Bagridae live in downstream to the tidal brackish
waters oflarger rivers
Mastacembelidae keithi was found only at Station 8 that comprises an area of fast
flowing turbid water and muddy bottom Inger and Chin (1990) recorded that most
individuals of this species were caught over silty bottom sand gravel and rock In
addition Martin-Smith and Tan (1998) documented that at Danum Valley Eastern of
Sabah has fewer individuals of this species in which it was never abundant and only few
individuals found in leaf banks or under log debris or log During dry season some of this
species burrow into the bottom mud (Graham 1997 Berra 2001)
The distribution of fish is also influence by the biological factors of the aquatic
environment namely the availability of food items (Khairul Adha et al2009 Cyprino et
al2008 Moyle et al 2000)
The number of catch in this study was low comparing to other studies for example
Khairul Adha et al (2009) documented a total of 234 individuals were caught in Batang
g and Nyanti et al (1999) reported a total of 521 individuals were caught in Kelabit
Highland in Sarawak This may due to the effect of poisoning and low water level during
15
PUScU Alil~ l ~ A ll1fl UNIVERSITI MALAYSIA SARAWAi
TABLE OF CONTENTS
ACKNOWLEDGEMENT
TABLE OF CONTENT II
LIST OF TABLES AND FIGURES III
ABSTRACT v
10 INTRODUCTION amp OBJECTIVE
20 LITERATURE REVIEW 3
21 Freshwater Fish Composition 3
211 Freshwater Fish Composition in Peninsular Malaysia 3
212 Freshwater Fish Composition in Sarawak 4
22 Feeding Behaviors of Fish 5
23 Fish Dietary Analysis 6
30 MATERIALS AND METHODS 8
31 Study Area 8
32 Fish Sampling 8
33 Laboratory Analysis 10
331 Fish Diet Analysis 10
332 Gut Content Analysis 10
34 Data Analysis for Fish Composition 12
40 RESULTS AND DISCUSSION 13
41 Fish Assemblages 13
42 Diversity Indices 20
43 Feeding Behavior 22
50 CONCLUSION 31
60 REFERENCES 32
70 APPENDIXES 39
II
UST OF TABLES
Table 1
Table 2
Table 3
Table 4
Table 5
Table 6
Table 7
Table 8
Table 9
Table 10
Fish fauna distribution according to speCIes and stations in Nanga Merit Kapit
17
List of fish species found at each station with range values of the measurements according to the total number of species caught (N) standard length (SL) total length (TL) wet weight (WT) and standard deviation (SO) of samples collected from Nanga Merit Kapit (Mean plusmn SO)
18
H D and J values according to stations 21
Summary of feeding behavior of freshwater fish caught at Nanga Merit area
22
The food composition (Cn) for the 15 selected fish species at Nanga Merit
23
Food composition (Cn) and frequency of occurrence (F) of insect 26 and invertebrates identified
Food composition (Cn) and frequency of occurrence diatom identified
Food composition (Cn) and frequency of occurrence algae identified
Food composition (Cn) and frequency of occurrence unidentified items
Details description on the sampling sites
(F) of the 27
(F) of the 28
(F) of the 29
43
III
I
I
LIST OF FIGURES
Figure 1
Figure 2
Location of the sampling sites involved in this study
Percentage of freshwater fish based on Family obtained during this project
9
13
IV
~----------------------------------------
NANGA MERIT FISHES ASSEMBLAGES AND THEIR FEEDING BEHAVIORS
Farah Adibah Esa
Department of Aquatic Science
Faculty of Resource Science and Technology
Universiti Malaysia Sarawak
ABSTRACT
This study was conducted to identify the diversity of freshwater fish and their teeding behavior in Nanga Merit A total
of 106 individuals comprising 15 families belonging to 5 families and II genera were caught Cyprinidae and Siluridae
were identified to be the dominant family representing 604 and 226 respectively The commonly caught individuals
wcr from the genera Cyclocheichillys (236) Rasbora (142) and Bmbodrs (123) Low number of individuals
was obtained during this study most probably due to the effects of poisoning (commercial pesticides and tuba sap) and
the low water level during dry season There three main feeding behavior of fish in Nanga Merit namely carnivore
herbivore and omnivore Based on the diet analysis the major types consumed are diatoms algae and invertebrates
lwonns nematodes copepod rotifer and larvae chironomid) Data obtained during this project serves as baseline data for
freshwater fish in Sarawak
Keyword Cyprinidae freshwater fish feeding behavior Nanga Mrit
K(1jian in lelall dijalankan bag mengenalpasl kepelbagaian kOlllllili ikan air lawar dan labial pelllakanan di Nanga
Meril DlIa jenis penangkapan ikan lelali diglln(lnkan iailu pukal hanYIII dan jala Sebanyak 106 individual lereliri
duripada 5 jamiii dan II genera lelall dilangkap Cyprinidae dan Siluridae didaplli mendoll1inasi kawasan Nanga Meril
dun Ifasillg-111asing l11ewakili 604 dan 226 Ikan yang lebih kerap dilangkap lerdiri daripada genlls
Cyclocheicllyhys (236) Rasbora (42) dan Bbodes (23) lIInlali individllal yang rendah dilangkap
berilllmllngkinan kerana kesan racln (peslisida dan IIba sub) dan paras air yang rendaft kerana 11111sim kering TOdapal
liga kllmpllall labial pell1akallan iailll kallivor herbivor dln omnivor Berdaslrkan ana lisa diel makalan IIlalla yang
dinakan adalaft dialom alga dan illverlcbrale (Ullll nonalode kopepoda rOlifer dan larvae cliirolollid) Dala yang
dipero lelri di dalam projck ini adalcdl sebagai garispanduan dallillUk ikon air I war di Sarallak
Kata Kunci Cyprinidae ikan air tawar tabiat pemakanan Nanga Merit
v
CHAPTER I
10 Introduction
In Malaysia freshwater fish is the source of livelihood and is the main protein
source for many rural communities and its consumption is widespread Freshwater fish
distributions cover lenthic and lotic environment and inhabit a great variety of habitats
ranging from small torrential streams to estuarine (Mohsin amp Ambak 1983) Freshwater
fishes are found only in a specific type of habitat and its salinity is the critical factor that
separates freshwater species from marine (Atack 2006)
Studies on fish fauna had been carried out in Penang (Alfred 1963) Nouthern
Selangor peat swamp forest (Davies amp Abdullah 1989) Sayap-Kinabalu Park (Nyanti
1998) Kelabit Highlands (Nyanti et at 1999) Crocker Range Park (Khairul Adha et at
2002) North Park peat swamp forest (Shah et at 2006) and Ulu Tungud Mehau Range at
Sandakan (Amirrudin et at 2006) In Sarawak studies on fish fauna had been carried out
for Gunung Mulu National Park Bau Limestone region and Baram (Atack 2006)
The freshwater fish fauna of Peninsular Malaysia is highly diverse Zakaria-Ismail
(1992) estimated that there are approximately 300 species of freshwater fishes in Malaysia
He listed 259 speceis of native freshwater fishes in Peninsular Malaysia Most of the fish
species diversity occurs in the tropical area (Kottelat et aI 1993) Mohsin and Ambak
(1983) listed a total of382 species of freshwater fish representing 56 familes in Peninsular
Malaysia For East Malaysia study on freshwater fish was by Inger and Chin (1990) in
North Borneo
Like all other vertebrates fishes are conventionally grouped as carnovires omnivores
an herbivore on the basis of their food habit They may also be grouped as filter-feeders
detritus-feeders or as predators However most fish can adapt their diet to the available
1
food supply The study on diet and feeding habit is necessary for understanding the
strategy of digestion and the digestive strategy of fish can truly reflects its food habit in
terms of resource utilization (Chakrabarti et al 1995) Other than that the diet analysis
also important for the studies of predation competition trophic level and food web
Nanga Merit is situated in Sarawak Malaysia Its geographical coordinates are 2deg
IT O North 113 deg8 0 East It is located at Kapit division and the people in the area have
been bearing their daily routines with wet padi cultivation Fisheries activities in Nanga
Merit area are carried out in small scale basis either to generate extra income or for
domestic consumption
There are several studies on freshwater fish in Sarawak for example Nyanti et al
(1 999) Lee (2004) Sipin (2005) Atack (2006) and Khairul Adha et al (2009) However
there is no proper documentation on freshwater fish in Nanga Merit Therefore this study
aims to identify the diversity of freshwater fish at Nanga Merit area In addition this study
also aims to detennine feeding behaviors of freshwater fish caught in Nanga Merit Data
obtained in this study will serve as baseline data of freshwater fish in Sarawak
2
CHAPTER II
20 Literature Review
21Freshwater fish composition
211 Freshwater fish composition in Peninsular Malaysia
Mohsin and Ambak (1983) divided Peninsular Malaysia into three main divisions
in based from the view of fish geography and their distribution North-West division
North-East and Central division and Southern division The North-West division has the
least number of fish species compared to the other two divisions due to paddy cultivation
and few rivers have dried up
The largest among the three divisions is North-East and Central division and is
bound by Kedah-Singgora north Rompin to Pahang in the south There are many manshy
made lakes and only one natural lake in Malaysia which is Tasik Chini There are a few
scattered freshwater swamp such as Tasek Bendera In consequence of the many water
bodies present in this divisions it is expected to have greatest abundance of fish fauna
Southern division is mostly dominated by Rasbora spp and the rivers in this division are
slow moving (Mohsin amp Ambak 1983)
According to Mohsin and Ambak (1983) rivers can be divided into zones upper
middle and lower zone The upper zone has a high current velocity high concentration a
sandy bed and a small volume of water carrying The fish fauna commonly found in this
zone are Rasbora sumatrana R elegans Puntius binotatus Luciosoma setigerum and
omaloptera orthogoniata The middle zone has the most fish fauna The lower zone is
the most polluted zone with very high silt loads and its flow rate is influenced by tides
3
212 Freshwater fish composition in Sarawak
Borneo is one of the most diversity areas of the world with many species being
endemic which is found only at a precise location either to the island or to the region
(Atack 2006) The distribution of fishes on Borneo offers a clue to distinguish old and
new elements of fish occurring in the Sunda area (Taki 1975) Atack (2006) stated that
Sarawak of254 freshwater fishes Sarawak River is complex therefore it supports a mix of
freshwater and estuarine species but mostly consists of freshwater species around
Kampung Paroh area
Sarawak River is relatively large river with two tributaries that run through the Bau
limestone region which are Sarawak Kiri and Sarawak Kanan The Kuching Barrage
functions as to control the Sarawak River maintaining a stable water level at the
waterfront and preventing saltwater contamination to water supply by changes of salinity
daily due to flushing of large influx of saltwater This periodic flushing will lead to a
mixed population of freshwater and saltwater fish species upstream of the Barrage (Atack
2006)
According to Nyanti et at (1999) Tor spp would seek shelter in tributaries which
have clear water and relatively low current velocity Sarawaks inland fisheries include a
number of highly valued species such as the cyprinid family locally known as Empurau
and Semah Species other than carp such as Tapah (Wallago sp) and herring locally
known as Terubok (Tenualosa sp) found to have commercial values to the local
community Tor tambroides (Empurau) is a large herbivorous carp that can be found in
clear rocky streams in the upland forest It was once found in most Sarawaks major river
su as Rejang Baram Limbang and the Ai These species are threatened by activities
such as overfishing and habitat degradation (Atack 2006)
4
Pusat Khidmat Maldumat Akademik UNIVERSITI MALAYSIA SABAWAK
22 Feeding Behaviour of Fish
The study of feeding ecology is a essential tool to understand fish roles within their
ecosystems (Hajisamaea et ai 2003) In the same time study of the food and feeding
behavior of freshwater fish is a matter of continuous research since it the basis for
development of a successful fisheries management programme on fish capture and culture
From its food a fish must obtain both macro- and micronutrients (Halver 1989) The range
of potential foods that are available reflects the physical environment The range taken by
a species depends on its ability to detect acquire and process the food (Wootton 1992)
Habitat type is also a significant aspect which influences the feeding approach of a species
by determining foraging opportunities Fishes tend to prefer habitat which has less prey
and capturing of abundant food (Hajisamaea et ai 2003)
Mohsin and Ambak (1983) classified fishes into three main categories which are
herbivore carnivore and omnivore Most of the Malaysia fishes are omnivorous Puntius
gonnionotus Mystus nemurus M villatus Clarias spp Tor tambroides and Chonerhinus
modestus are some of the example The second largest group of fishes is carnivorous that
feed on other animals such as benthic organisms invertebrates crustaceans other fishes
followed by herbivores which eats aquatic plants small or big algae fruits and vegetation
that have dropped into the water (Atack 2006) Many species of fish that live in the
surface waters of the sea feed on plankton which is both zooplankton and phytoplankton
and it can be describe as p1anktivores (Atack 2006)
Based on detail analysis of gut contents it can be concluded that terrestrial insects
and plants are among the majority of food types eaten by freshwater fish in Peninsular
Malaysia (Mohsin amp Ambak 1983) Data on different food items consumed by fish may
e rually result in identification of stable food preference and in creation of trophic
5
models as a tool to understand complex ecosystems (Lopez-Peralta et at 2002 Bachok et
at 2004)
Fish feeding activity is controlled by environments behavior and physiology Fish
diets varies according to area prey availability season time of day and fish size Bhuiyan
et ai (2006) states that the utilization of food and rate of digestion is also influence by the
quality and quantity of available food organisms In general most of a fishs diet consists
ofbenthic invertebrates often supplemented by terrestrial invertebrates
Studies on natural feeding of fish permit to identify the trophic feeding
composition structure and stability of food webs relationships present in aquatic
ecosystems identifying In the same time the study of food and feeding habits of
freshwater fish species is a subject of continuous research because it constituted the basis
for the development of a successful fisheries management program on fish capture and
culture (Oronsaye et ai 2005) Studies on diet composition are important in community
ecology because the use of resources by organisms has a major influence on population
interactions within a community (Mequilla 2007)
24 Fish dietary analysis
Through the examination of the gut content analysis the feeding behavior of
freshwater fishes can be determined The analyses were limited to food items found in the
gut and esophagus to increase the possibility that the food item had been eaten recently and
in the habitat where the fish were caught (Wennhage et aI 2002 Tan 2004 Hasnidah
2005) Most studies of the feeding ecology of teleost fish in their natural habitats have
6
emphasized the temporal and systematic aspects of a particular species (Hofer amp Schiemer
198 1 )
For dietary analysis only the stomach content is considered most important This
analysis is significant for the study of predation competitions trophic level and food web
in the ecosystem (Anderson 2000 Tan 2004 Luna et al 2008) Furthermore without the
knowledge of dietary relationships among organism community structure and population
interaction are difficult to assume (Layman amp Silliman 2002)
During the feeding activity one should consider the percentage of empty stomach
in a sample as well as composition and state of digestion of each prey in each fish gut at
each sampling since feeding activity is controlled by environments behavior and
physiology There are three methods of gut content analysis which are numerical
volumetric and gravimetric analysis However the suitable methods depends on the study
and food type to be analyzed (Windwell et al 1978 Tan 2004 Hasnidah 2005)
7
CHAPTER III
30 Materials and Methods
31 Study Area
This study was carried out at Nanga Merit Kapit Sarawak (Fig 31) Study areas
covers nine stations namely station 1 (Sg Sebulut) station 2 (Sg Seririt) station 3 (Sg
Beluti) station 4 (Sg Temulan) station 5 (Sg Merit- upper area) station 6 (Sg Meritshy
middle area) station 7 (Sg Merit- lower area) station 8 (Sg Rajang-east part) and station
9 (Sg Rajang- west part) (Fig 1)
32 Fish sampling
Fishes were collected using cast net with stretched mesh size of I5cm 2m long In
several stations gill net with stretched mesh of 15cm was used All species were
identified follow those from Mohsin and Ambak (1983) Robert (1989) Inger and Chin
(1990) and Kottelat et ai (1993) Photograph of each species was taken for record The
total length (em) standard length (cm) was measured using measuring board and the wet
weight (gram) was measured using weighting scale and recorded accordingly The
specimens were preserved in 10 formalin in the field and later replaced with 70
ethanol after two weeks in the laboratory
Fish gut was dissected from each species after identification accomplished The
guts were pre-mixed into 10 formalin and then the contents were completely emptied
into labeled Petri dish containing 70 ethanol AU species were identified follows those
Kot clat et ai (1993) Data analysis of biological indices such as Shannon-Weiner
8
Diversity Index (H) Margalef Richness Index (D) and Pielou Similarity Index (J) were
used
N
T
Figure 1 Locations of the sampling sites involved in this study
Keys
1- Sungai Sebulut 4- Sungai Temulan 7- Sungai Merit (lower)
2- Sungai Seririt 5- Sungai Merit (upper) 8- Sungai Rajang (east part)
- Sungai Beluti 6- Sungai Merit (middle) 9- Sungai Rajang (west part)
9
~LIlDOlratlory analysis
331Fish diet analysis
Based on the results of gut content analysis the diet of freshwater fish species at
The preserved gut was washed with tap water and was then cut open and the entire
contents were removed and were placed on the Petri dish The gut contents of each
were analyzed under the compound microscope Identification of the gut
IfllllOUIiJ Was made based on the morphology characteristics of each organism The number
item in the contents will be counted in a grid Petri dish Items were identified to the
taxonomic level and unidentified food materials were counted as unidentified The
iIIIliticatl()o of the gut contents will be made based on Sze (1993) and Pechenik (2000)
332Gut content analysis
The guts were dissected and the contents were examined under compound
OS(ope The following categories of contents are considered fish insects (both
and terrestrial) zooplankton microbenthos macrophytes filamentous algae
and planktonic) other phytoplankton and pollen and seeds
Analysis of gut using dissection was conducted using a sharp and fine dissecting
for the incision Once the intact gut has been dissected it was place on a clean
rosco~1e slide The gut contents were tease from the gut or foregut with a fine
_lCtiIltg pin or fine forceps and disperse in slide It was placed a cover slip over the
pressed gently to spread the gut material and then dry the slide on a slide
10
warmer The gut contents was examine and identified its components as accurately as
possible
To measure the gut contents of the gut and to estimate the frequency of occurrence
in the stomach numerical (quantitative) method will be used The diet analysis will be
analyzed on their Food Composition (Cn) and Frequency of Occurrence (F) (Hyslop 1980
Tan 2004 Hasnidah 2005)
Frequency of Occurrence
To estimate the proportion of the population that feed on the particular food items
F =(AlB) x 100
Where
A =Number of guts containing a particular food item
B =Total number of guts being analyzed
Food Composition
The comparison of numerical percentage in the types of food inside the guts and the
potential of food taken by fishes will give the information about the food selection
Cn =(CD) x 100
Where
C = Number of food items of a given type in all specimens
D =Total number of all food items that are found in all specimens
11
34 Data analysis for Fish Composition
To analyze the fish composition analysis of biological indices such as Shannon-Weiner
Diversity Index (H) Margalef Richness Index (D) and Pielou Similarity Index (J) will be
used as follows
Shannon and Weiner Diversity Index (H) ( Shannon and Weaver 1963)
H =-Ipi In pi
Where
pi = NilN (Ni = Total number of individuals of species i)
N = total number of individuals of all species
Margalef Richness Index (D) (Margalef 1968)
D= S-1I10g N
where
S = total number of species
N =total number of individuals of all species
Pielou Similarity Index (J) (Pielou 1966)
J= HI In S
Where
H = diversity index
S =total number of species
12
CHAPTER IV
40 RESULT AND DISCUSSION
41 Fish Assemblages
A total of 106 individua1s from fifteen species belonging to 5 families and 11 genus
namely Bagridae Cyprinidae Mastacembelidae Pangasidae and Siluridae were caught
during this project
bull Bagridae
bull Cyprinidae
Mastacembelidae
bull Pangasidae
Siluridae
Figure 2 Percentage of freshwater fish based on family obtained during this project
Family Cyprinidae (604) are the dominant family inhabiting Nanga Merit
followed by family Siluridae (226) Bagridae (151 ) Mastacembelidae (09) and
Pangasidae (09) (Fig 2) This finding is supported by Nyanti et al (1995) where they
reported approximately 66 fish caught were family Cyprinidae in Batang Rajang This
si ti n was also in accordance with Ismail (1994) who stated that the freshwater habitat
of Southeast Asia was dominated by cyprinid fish Similar results were obtained by
13
Khairul Adha et al (2009) where they reported that Batang Kerang was dominated by
Cyprinidae Approximately 33 of freshwater fish in the Western Borneo mostly are
dominated by Cyprinidae (Robert 1989)
The species belonging to family Cyprinidae found in all stations except Station 9
The absence of fish from family Cyprinidae in Station 9 is probably due to the technical
error during fish sampling The dominant genera in terms of total number of individuals
caught were represented by Cyclocheichthys (236) Rasbora (142) and Barbodes
(1 23) Nyanti et al (1999) documented genera Nematabramis and Tor representing
324 and 168 respectively as the dominant genera in Kelabit Highland This contrast
findings found between these two studies may be due to the sampling period This study
was conducted their samplings during dry season whereas Nyanti et al (1999) conducted
during raining season
In this study Nematabramis borneesis was found only in Station 1 with only two
individual In contrast with study done by Nyanti et at (1999) recorded a total of 168
individuals of Nematabramis borneesis in Kelabit Highland Station 8 has the highest
number of species with eight individual recorded whereas Station 2 4 and 5 recorded the
lowest nwnber of species with only one individuals (Table 1)
The abundance of Rasbora is coherent with the characteristics of the stations
Rasbora argyrotaemia has been found only in clear water over gravel bottom in North
Borneo (Inger amp Chin 1990) This species live in a moderate to fast flowing streams with
sandy bottoms and fast flowing rivers with gravel and rocky susbtrate (Kottelat et at
1993 Rachmatika2005) Furthermore the habitat is characterized by heavy vegetation
middotch most likely serves as a nursery grounds Sipin (2004) had carried out a study on
14
diversity of fish in Sungai Kesit Batang Lemanak Sarawak and he also recorded Rasbora
as the dominant genus
Kryptopterus limpok was found in Station 7 which recorded a total of 22
individuals compared to other stations (Table 1) Family Bagridae and Siluridae were
found at Station 7 8 and 9 which represent Sungai Merit (lower part) Sungai Rajang (east
part) and Sungai Rajang (west part) Atirah (2010) recorded to have 349ftu for turbidity
and 506 for pH water in Station 7 Khairul Adha et al (2009) reported that Bagridae and
Siluridae have the ability to adapt in water with low dissolved oxygen levels and high
acidic water Atack (2006) added that Bagridae live in downstream to the tidal brackish
waters oflarger rivers
Mastacembelidae keithi was found only at Station 8 that comprises an area of fast
flowing turbid water and muddy bottom Inger and Chin (1990) recorded that most
individuals of this species were caught over silty bottom sand gravel and rock In
addition Martin-Smith and Tan (1998) documented that at Danum Valley Eastern of
Sabah has fewer individuals of this species in which it was never abundant and only few
individuals found in leaf banks or under log debris or log During dry season some of this
species burrow into the bottom mud (Graham 1997 Berra 2001)
The distribution of fish is also influence by the biological factors of the aquatic
environment namely the availability of food items (Khairul Adha et al2009 Cyprino et
al2008 Moyle et al 2000)
The number of catch in this study was low comparing to other studies for example
Khairul Adha et al (2009) documented a total of 234 individuals were caught in Batang
g and Nyanti et al (1999) reported a total of 521 individuals were caught in Kelabit
Highland in Sarawak This may due to the effect of poisoning and low water level during
15
UST OF TABLES
Table 1
Table 2
Table 3
Table 4
Table 5
Table 6
Table 7
Table 8
Table 9
Table 10
Fish fauna distribution according to speCIes and stations in Nanga Merit Kapit
17
List of fish species found at each station with range values of the measurements according to the total number of species caught (N) standard length (SL) total length (TL) wet weight (WT) and standard deviation (SO) of samples collected from Nanga Merit Kapit (Mean plusmn SO)
18
H D and J values according to stations 21
Summary of feeding behavior of freshwater fish caught at Nanga Merit area
22
The food composition (Cn) for the 15 selected fish species at Nanga Merit
23
Food composition (Cn) and frequency of occurrence (F) of insect 26 and invertebrates identified
Food composition (Cn) and frequency of occurrence diatom identified
Food composition (Cn) and frequency of occurrence algae identified
Food composition (Cn) and frequency of occurrence unidentified items
Details description on the sampling sites
(F) of the 27
(F) of the 28
(F) of the 29
43
III
I
I
LIST OF FIGURES
Figure 1
Figure 2
Location of the sampling sites involved in this study
Percentage of freshwater fish based on Family obtained during this project
9
13
IV
~----------------------------------------
NANGA MERIT FISHES ASSEMBLAGES AND THEIR FEEDING BEHAVIORS
Farah Adibah Esa
Department of Aquatic Science
Faculty of Resource Science and Technology
Universiti Malaysia Sarawak
ABSTRACT
This study was conducted to identify the diversity of freshwater fish and their teeding behavior in Nanga Merit A total
of 106 individuals comprising 15 families belonging to 5 families and II genera were caught Cyprinidae and Siluridae
were identified to be the dominant family representing 604 and 226 respectively The commonly caught individuals
wcr from the genera Cyclocheichillys (236) Rasbora (142) and Bmbodrs (123) Low number of individuals
was obtained during this study most probably due to the effects of poisoning (commercial pesticides and tuba sap) and
the low water level during dry season There three main feeding behavior of fish in Nanga Merit namely carnivore
herbivore and omnivore Based on the diet analysis the major types consumed are diatoms algae and invertebrates
lwonns nematodes copepod rotifer and larvae chironomid) Data obtained during this project serves as baseline data for
freshwater fish in Sarawak
Keyword Cyprinidae freshwater fish feeding behavior Nanga Mrit
K(1jian in lelall dijalankan bag mengenalpasl kepelbagaian kOlllllili ikan air lawar dan labial pelllakanan di Nanga
Meril DlIa jenis penangkapan ikan lelali diglln(lnkan iailu pukal hanYIII dan jala Sebanyak 106 individual lereliri
duripada 5 jamiii dan II genera lelall dilangkap Cyprinidae dan Siluridae didaplli mendoll1inasi kawasan Nanga Meril
dun Ifasillg-111asing l11ewakili 604 dan 226 Ikan yang lebih kerap dilangkap lerdiri daripada genlls
Cyclocheicllyhys (236) Rasbora (42) dan Bbodes (23) lIInlali individllal yang rendah dilangkap
berilllmllngkinan kerana kesan racln (peslisida dan IIba sub) dan paras air yang rendaft kerana 11111sim kering TOdapal
liga kllmpllall labial pell1akallan iailll kallivor herbivor dln omnivor Berdaslrkan ana lisa diel makalan IIlalla yang
dinakan adalaft dialom alga dan illverlcbrale (Ullll nonalode kopepoda rOlifer dan larvae cliirolollid) Dala yang
dipero lelri di dalam projck ini adalcdl sebagai garispanduan dallillUk ikon air I war di Sarallak
Kata Kunci Cyprinidae ikan air tawar tabiat pemakanan Nanga Merit
v
CHAPTER I
10 Introduction
In Malaysia freshwater fish is the source of livelihood and is the main protein
source for many rural communities and its consumption is widespread Freshwater fish
distributions cover lenthic and lotic environment and inhabit a great variety of habitats
ranging from small torrential streams to estuarine (Mohsin amp Ambak 1983) Freshwater
fishes are found only in a specific type of habitat and its salinity is the critical factor that
separates freshwater species from marine (Atack 2006)
Studies on fish fauna had been carried out in Penang (Alfred 1963) Nouthern
Selangor peat swamp forest (Davies amp Abdullah 1989) Sayap-Kinabalu Park (Nyanti
1998) Kelabit Highlands (Nyanti et at 1999) Crocker Range Park (Khairul Adha et at
2002) North Park peat swamp forest (Shah et at 2006) and Ulu Tungud Mehau Range at
Sandakan (Amirrudin et at 2006) In Sarawak studies on fish fauna had been carried out
for Gunung Mulu National Park Bau Limestone region and Baram (Atack 2006)
The freshwater fish fauna of Peninsular Malaysia is highly diverse Zakaria-Ismail
(1992) estimated that there are approximately 300 species of freshwater fishes in Malaysia
He listed 259 speceis of native freshwater fishes in Peninsular Malaysia Most of the fish
species diversity occurs in the tropical area (Kottelat et aI 1993) Mohsin and Ambak
(1983) listed a total of382 species of freshwater fish representing 56 familes in Peninsular
Malaysia For East Malaysia study on freshwater fish was by Inger and Chin (1990) in
North Borneo
Like all other vertebrates fishes are conventionally grouped as carnovires omnivores
an herbivore on the basis of their food habit They may also be grouped as filter-feeders
detritus-feeders or as predators However most fish can adapt their diet to the available
1
food supply The study on diet and feeding habit is necessary for understanding the
strategy of digestion and the digestive strategy of fish can truly reflects its food habit in
terms of resource utilization (Chakrabarti et al 1995) Other than that the diet analysis
also important for the studies of predation competition trophic level and food web
Nanga Merit is situated in Sarawak Malaysia Its geographical coordinates are 2deg
IT O North 113 deg8 0 East It is located at Kapit division and the people in the area have
been bearing their daily routines with wet padi cultivation Fisheries activities in Nanga
Merit area are carried out in small scale basis either to generate extra income or for
domestic consumption
There are several studies on freshwater fish in Sarawak for example Nyanti et al
(1 999) Lee (2004) Sipin (2005) Atack (2006) and Khairul Adha et al (2009) However
there is no proper documentation on freshwater fish in Nanga Merit Therefore this study
aims to identify the diversity of freshwater fish at Nanga Merit area In addition this study
also aims to detennine feeding behaviors of freshwater fish caught in Nanga Merit Data
obtained in this study will serve as baseline data of freshwater fish in Sarawak
2
CHAPTER II
20 Literature Review
21Freshwater fish composition
211 Freshwater fish composition in Peninsular Malaysia
Mohsin and Ambak (1983) divided Peninsular Malaysia into three main divisions
in based from the view of fish geography and their distribution North-West division
North-East and Central division and Southern division The North-West division has the
least number of fish species compared to the other two divisions due to paddy cultivation
and few rivers have dried up
The largest among the three divisions is North-East and Central division and is
bound by Kedah-Singgora north Rompin to Pahang in the south There are many manshy
made lakes and only one natural lake in Malaysia which is Tasik Chini There are a few
scattered freshwater swamp such as Tasek Bendera In consequence of the many water
bodies present in this divisions it is expected to have greatest abundance of fish fauna
Southern division is mostly dominated by Rasbora spp and the rivers in this division are
slow moving (Mohsin amp Ambak 1983)
According to Mohsin and Ambak (1983) rivers can be divided into zones upper
middle and lower zone The upper zone has a high current velocity high concentration a
sandy bed and a small volume of water carrying The fish fauna commonly found in this
zone are Rasbora sumatrana R elegans Puntius binotatus Luciosoma setigerum and
omaloptera orthogoniata The middle zone has the most fish fauna The lower zone is
the most polluted zone with very high silt loads and its flow rate is influenced by tides
3
212 Freshwater fish composition in Sarawak
Borneo is one of the most diversity areas of the world with many species being
endemic which is found only at a precise location either to the island or to the region
(Atack 2006) The distribution of fishes on Borneo offers a clue to distinguish old and
new elements of fish occurring in the Sunda area (Taki 1975) Atack (2006) stated that
Sarawak of254 freshwater fishes Sarawak River is complex therefore it supports a mix of
freshwater and estuarine species but mostly consists of freshwater species around
Kampung Paroh area
Sarawak River is relatively large river with two tributaries that run through the Bau
limestone region which are Sarawak Kiri and Sarawak Kanan The Kuching Barrage
functions as to control the Sarawak River maintaining a stable water level at the
waterfront and preventing saltwater contamination to water supply by changes of salinity
daily due to flushing of large influx of saltwater This periodic flushing will lead to a
mixed population of freshwater and saltwater fish species upstream of the Barrage (Atack
2006)
According to Nyanti et at (1999) Tor spp would seek shelter in tributaries which
have clear water and relatively low current velocity Sarawaks inland fisheries include a
number of highly valued species such as the cyprinid family locally known as Empurau
and Semah Species other than carp such as Tapah (Wallago sp) and herring locally
known as Terubok (Tenualosa sp) found to have commercial values to the local
community Tor tambroides (Empurau) is a large herbivorous carp that can be found in
clear rocky streams in the upland forest It was once found in most Sarawaks major river
su as Rejang Baram Limbang and the Ai These species are threatened by activities
such as overfishing and habitat degradation (Atack 2006)
4
Pusat Khidmat Maldumat Akademik UNIVERSITI MALAYSIA SABAWAK
22 Feeding Behaviour of Fish
The study of feeding ecology is a essential tool to understand fish roles within their
ecosystems (Hajisamaea et ai 2003) In the same time study of the food and feeding
behavior of freshwater fish is a matter of continuous research since it the basis for
development of a successful fisheries management programme on fish capture and culture
From its food a fish must obtain both macro- and micronutrients (Halver 1989) The range
of potential foods that are available reflects the physical environment The range taken by
a species depends on its ability to detect acquire and process the food (Wootton 1992)
Habitat type is also a significant aspect which influences the feeding approach of a species
by determining foraging opportunities Fishes tend to prefer habitat which has less prey
and capturing of abundant food (Hajisamaea et ai 2003)
Mohsin and Ambak (1983) classified fishes into three main categories which are
herbivore carnivore and omnivore Most of the Malaysia fishes are omnivorous Puntius
gonnionotus Mystus nemurus M villatus Clarias spp Tor tambroides and Chonerhinus
modestus are some of the example The second largest group of fishes is carnivorous that
feed on other animals such as benthic organisms invertebrates crustaceans other fishes
followed by herbivores which eats aquatic plants small or big algae fruits and vegetation
that have dropped into the water (Atack 2006) Many species of fish that live in the
surface waters of the sea feed on plankton which is both zooplankton and phytoplankton
and it can be describe as p1anktivores (Atack 2006)
Based on detail analysis of gut contents it can be concluded that terrestrial insects
and plants are among the majority of food types eaten by freshwater fish in Peninsular
Malaysia (Mohsin amp Ambak 1983) Data on different food items consumed by fish may
e rually result in identification of stable food preference and in creation of trophic
5
models as a tool to understand complex ecosystems (Lopez-Peralta et at 2002 Bachok et
at 2004)
Fish feeding activity is controlled by environments behavior and physiology Fish
diets varies according to area prey availability season time of day and fish size Bhuiyan
et ai (2006) states that the utilization of food and rate of digestion is also influence by the
quality and quantity of available food organisms In general most of a fishs diet consists
ofbenthic invertebrates often supplemented by terrestrial invertebrates
Studies on natural feeding of fish permit to identify the trophic feeding
composition structure and stability of food webs relationships present in aquatic
ecosystems identifying In the same time the study of food and feeding habits of
freshwater fish species is a subject of continuous research because it constituted the basis
for the development of a successful fisheries management program on fish capture and
culture (Oronsaye et ai 2005) Studies on diet composition are important in community
ecology because the use of resources by organisms has a major influence on population
interactions within a community (Mequilla 2007)
24 Fish dietary analysis
Through the examination of the gut content analysis the feeding behavior of
freshwater fishes can be determined The analyses were limited to food items found in the
gut and esophagus to increase the possibility that the food item had been eaten recently and
in the habitat where the fish were caught (Wennhage et aI 2002 Tan 2004 Hasnidah
2005) Most studies of the feeding ecology of teleost fish in their natural habitats have
6
emphasized the temporal and systematic aspects of a particular species (Hofer amp Schiemer
198 1 )
For dietary analysis only the stomach content is considered most important This
analysis is significant for the study of predation competitions trophic level and food web
in the ecosystem (Anderson 2000 Tan 2004 Luna et al 2008) Furthermore without the
knowledge of dietary relationships among organism community structure and population
interaction are difficult to assume (Layman amp Silliman 2002)
During the feeding activity one should consider the percentage of empty stomach
in a sample as well as composition and state of digestion of each prey in each fish gut at
each sampling since feeding activity is controlled by environments behavior and
physiology There are three methods of gut content analysis which are numerical
volumetric and gravimetric analysis However the suitable methods depends on the study
and food type to be analyzed (Windwell et al 1978 Tan 2004 Hasnidah 2005)
7
CHAPTER III
30 Materials and Methods
31 Study Area
This study was carried out at Nanga Merit Kapit Sarawak (Fig 31) Study areas
covers nine stations namely station 1 (Sg Sebulut) station 2 (Sg Seririt) station 3 (Sg
Beluti) station 4 (Sg Temulan) station 5 (Sg Merit- upper area) station 6 (Sg Meritshy
middle area) station 7 (Sg Merit- lower area) station 8 (Sg Rajang-east part) and station
9 (Sg Rajang- west part) (Fig 1)
32 Fish sampling
Fishes were collected using cast net with stretched mesh size of I5cm 2m long In
several stations gill net with stretched mesh of 15cm was used All species were
identified follow those from Mohsin and Ambak (1983) Robert (1989) Inger and Chin
(1990) and Kottelat et ai (1993) Photograph of each species was taken for record The
total length (em) standard length (cm) was measured using measuring board and the wet
weight (gram) was measured using weighting scale and recorded accordingly The
specimens were preserved in 10 formalin in the field and later replaced with 70
ethanol after two weeks in the laboratory
Fish gut was dissected from each species after identification accomplished The
guts were pre-mixed into 10 formalin and then the contents were completely emptied
into labeled Petri dish containing 70 ethanol AU species were identified follows those
Kot clat et ai (1993) Data analysis of biological indices such as Shannon-Weiner
8
Diversity Index (H) Margalef Richness Index (D) and Pielou Similarity Index (J) were
used
N
T
Figure 1 Locations of the sampling sites involved in this study
Keys
1- Sungai Sebulut 4- Sungai Temulan 7- Sungai Merit (lower)
2- Sungai Seririt 5- Sungai Merit (upper) 8- Sungai Rajang (east part)
- Sungai Beluti 6- Sungai Merit (middle) 9- Sungai Rajang (west part)
9
~LIlDOlratlory analysis
331Fish diet analysis
Based on the results of gut content analysis the diet of freshwater fish species at
The preserved gut was washed with tap water and was then cut open and the entire
contents were removed and were placed on the Petri dish The gut contents of each
were analyzed under the compound microscope Identification of the gut
IfllllOUIiJ Was made based on the morphology characteristics of each organism The number
item in the contents will be counted in a grid Petri dish Items were identified to the
taxonomic level and unidentified food materials were counted as unidentified The
iIIIliticatl()o of the gut contents will be made based on Sze (1993) and Pechenik (2000)
332Gut content analysis
The guts were dissected and the contents were examined under compound
OS(ope The following categories of contents are considered fish insects (both
and terrestrial) zooplankton microbenthos macrophytes filamentous algae
and planktonic) other phytoplankton and pollen and seeds
Analysis of gut using dissection was conducted using a sharp and fine dissecting
for the incision Once the intact gut has been dissected it was place on a clean
rosco~1e slide The gut contents were tease from the gut or foregut with a fine
_lCtiIltg pin or fine forceps and disperse in slide It was placed a cover slip over the
pressed gently to spread the gut material and then dry the slide on a slide
10
warmer The gut contents was examine and identified its components as accurately as
possible
To measure the gut contents of the gut and to estimate the frequency of occurrence
in the stomach numerical (quantitative) method will be used The diet analysis will be
analyzed on their Food Composition (Cn) and Frequency of Occurrence (F) (Hyslop 1980
Tan 2004 Hasnidah 2005)
Frequency of Occurrence
To estimate the proportion of the population that feed on the particular food items
F =(AlB) x 100
Where
A =Number of guts containing a particular food item
B =Total number of guts being analyzed
Food Composition
The comparison of numerical percentage in the types of food inside the guts and the
potential of food taken by fishes will give the information about the food selection
Cn =(CD) x 100
Where
C = Number of food items of a given type in all specimens
D =Total number of all food items that are found in all specimens
11
34 Data analysis for Fish Composition
To analyze the fish composition analysis of biological indices such as Shannon-Weiner
Diversity Index (H) Margalef Richness Index (D) and Pielou Similarity Index (J) will be
used as follows
Shannon and Weiner Diversity Index (H) ( Shannon and Weaver 1963)
H =-Ipi In pi
Where
pi = NilN (Ni = Total number of individuals of species i)
N = total number of individuals of all species
Margalef Richness Index (D) (Margalef 1968)
D= S-1I10g N
where
S = total number of species
N =total number of individuals of all species
Pielou Similarity Index (J) (Pielou 1966)
J= HI In S
Where
H = diversity index
S =total number of species
12
CHAPTER IV
40 RESULT AND DISCUSSION
41 Fish Assemblages
A total of 106 individua1s from fifteen species belonging to 5 families and 11 genus
namely Bagridae Cyprinidae Mastacembelidae Pangasidae and Siluridae were caught
during this project
bull Bagridae
bull Cyprinidae
Mastacembelidae
bull Pangasidae
Siluridae
Figure 2 Percentage of freshwater fish based on family obtained during this project
Family Cyprinidae (604) are the dominant family inhabiting Nanga Merit
followed by family Siluridae (226) Bagridae (151 ) Mastacembelidae (09) and
Pangasidae (09) (Fig 2) This finding is supported by Nyanti et al (1995) where they
reported approximately 66 fish caught were family Cyprinidae in Batang Rajang This
si ti n was also in accordance with Ismail (1994) who stated that the freshwater habitat
of Southeast Asia was dominated by cyprinid fish Similar results were obtained by
13
Khairul Adha et al (2009) where they reported that Batang Kerang was dominated by
Cyprinidae Approximately 33 of freshwater fish in the Western Borneo mostly are
dominated by Cyprinidae (Robert 1989)
The species belonging to family Cyprinidae found in all stations except Station 9
The absence of fish from family Cyprinidae in Station 9 is probably due to the technical
error during fish sampling The dominant genera in terms of total number of individuals
caught were represented by Cyclocheichthys (236) Rasbora (142) and Barbodes
(1 23) Nyanti et al (1999) documented genera Nematabramis and Tor representing
324 and 168 respectively as the dominant genera in Kelabit Highland This contrast
findings found between these two studies may be due to the sampling period This study
was conducted their samplings during dry season whereas Nyanti et al (1999) conducted
during raining season
In this study Nematabramis borneesis was found only in Station 1 with only two
individual In contrast with study done by Nyanti et at (1999) recorded a total of 168
individuals of Nematabramis borneesis in Kelabit Highland Station 8 has the highest
number of species with eight individual recorded whereas Station 2 4 and 5 recorded the
lowest nwnber of species with only one individuals (Table 1)
The abundance of Rasbora is coherent with the characteristics of the stations
Rasbora argyrotaemia has been found only in clear water over gravel bottom in North
Borneo (Inger amp Chin 1990) This species live in a moderate to fast flowing streams with
sandy bottoms and fast flowing rivers with gravel and rocky susbtrate (Kottelat et at
1993 Rachmatika2005) Furthermore the habitat is characterized by heavy vegetation
middotch most likely serves as a nursery grounds Sipin (2004) had carried out a study on
14
diversity of fish in Sungai Kesit Batang Lemanak Sarawak and he also recorded Rasbora
as the dominant genus
Kryptopterus limpok was found in Station 7 which recorded a total of 22
individuals compared to other stations (Table 1) Family Bagridae and Siluridae were
found at Station 7 8 and 9 which represent Sungai Merit (lower part) Sungai Rajang (east
part) and Sungai Rajang (west part) Atirah (2010) recorded to have 349ftu for turbidity
and 506 for pH water in Station 7 Khairul Adha et al (2009) reported that Bagridae and
Siluridae have the ability to adapt in water with low dissolved oxygen levels and high
acidic water Atack (2006) added that Bagridae live in downstream to the tidal brackish
waters oflarger rivers
Mastacembelidae keithi was found only at Station 8 that comprises an area of fast
flowing turbid water and muddy bottom Inger and Chin (1990) recorded that most
individuals of this species were caught over silty bottom sand gravel and rock In
addition Martin-Smith and Tan (1998) documented that at Danum Valley Eastern of
Sabah has fewer individuals of this species in which it was never abundant and only few
individuals found in leaf banks or under log debris or log During dry season some of this
species burrow into the bottom mud (Graham 1997 Berra 2001)
The distribution of fish is also influence by the biological factors of the aquatic
environment namely the availability of food items (Khairul Adha et al2009 Cyprino et
al2008 Moyle et al 2000)
The number of catch in this study was low comparing to other studies for example
Khairul Adha et al (2009) documented a total of 234 individuals were caught in Batang
g and Nyanti et al (1999) reported a total of 521 individuals were caught in Kelabit
Highland in Sarawak This may due to the effect of poisoning and low water level during
15
I
I
LIST OF FIGURES
Figure 1
Figure 2
Location of the sampling sites involved in this study
Percentage of freshwater fish based on Family obtained during this project
9
13
IV
~----------------------------------------
NANGA MERIT FISHES ASSEMBLAGES AND THEIR FEEDING BEHAVIORS
Farah Adibah Esa
Department of Aquatic Science
Faculty of Resource Science and Technology
Universiti Malaysia Sarawak
ABSTRACT
This study was conducted to identify the diversity of freshwater fish and their teeding behavior in Nanga Merit A total
of 106 individuals comprising 15 families belonging to 5 families and II genera were caught Cyprinidae and Siluridae
were identified to be the dominant family representing 604 and 226 respectively The commonly caught individuals
wcr from the genera Cyclocheichillys (236) Rasbora (142) and Bmbodrs (123) Low number of individuals
was obtained during this study most probably due to the effects of poisoning (commercial pesticides and tuba sap) and
the low water level during dry season There three main feeding behavior of fish in Nanga Merit namely carnivore
herbivore and omnivore Based on the diet analysis the major types consumed are diatoms algae and invertebrates
lwonns nematodes copepod rotifer and larvae chironomid) Data obtained during this project serves as baseline data for
freshwater fish in Sarawak
Keyword Cyprinidae freshwater fish feeding behavior Nanga Mrit
K(1jian in lelall dijalankan bag mengenalpasl kepelbagaian kOlllllili ikan air lawar dan labial pelllakanan di Nanga
Meril DlIa jenis penangkapan ikan lelali diglln(lnkan iailu pukal hanYIII dan jala Sebanyak 106 individual lereliri
duripada 5 jamiii dan II genera lelall dilangkap Cyprinidae dan Siluridae didaplli mendoll1inasi kawasan Nanga Meril
dun Ifasillg-111asing l11ewakili 604 dan 226 Ikan yang lebih kerap dilangkap lerdiri daripada genlls
Cyclocheicllyhys (236) Rasbora (42) dan Bbodes (23) lIInlali individllal yang rendah dilangkap
berilllmllngkinan kerana kesan racln (peslisida dan IIba sub) dan paras air yang rendaft kerana 11111sim kering TOdapal
liga kllmpllall labial pell1akallan iailll kallivor herbivor dln omnivor Berdaslrkan ana lisa diel makalan IIlalla yang
dinakan adalaft dialom alga dan illverlcbrale (Ullll nonalode kopepoda rOlifer dan larvae cliirolollid) Dala yang
dipero lelri di dalam projck ini adalcdl sebagai garispanduan dallillUk ikon air I war di Sarallak
Kata Kunci Cyprinidae ikan air tawar tabiat pemakanan Nanga Merit
v
CHAPTER I
10 Introduction
In Malaysia freshwater fish is the source of livelihood and is the main protein
source for many rural communities and its consumption is widespread Freshwater fish
distributions cover lenthic and lotic environment and inhabit a great variety of habitats
ranging from small torrential streams to estuarine (Mohsin amp Ambak 1983) Freshwater
fishes are found only in a specific type of habitat and its salinity is the critical factor that
separates freshwater species from marine (Atack 2006)
Studies on fish fauna had been carried out in Penang (Alfred 1963) Nouthern
Selangor peat swamp forest (Davies amp Abdullah 1989) Sayap-Kinabalu Park (Nyanti
1998) Kelabit Highlands (Nyanti et at 1999) Crocker Range Park (Khairul Adha et at
2002) North Park peat swamp forest (Shah et at 2006) and Ulu Tungud Mehau Range at
Sandakan (Amirrudin et at 2006) In Sarawak studies on fish fauna had been carried out
for Gunung Mulu National Park Bau Limestone region and Baram (Atack 2006)
The freshwater fish fauna of Peninsular Malaysia is highly diverse Zakaria-Ismail
(1992) estimated that there are approximately 300 species of freshwater fishes in Malaysia
He listed 259 speceis of native freshwater fishes in Peninsular Malaysia Most of the fish
species diversity occurs in the tropical area (Kottelat et aI 1993) Mohsin and Ambak
(1983) listed a total of382 species of freshwater fish representing 56 familes in Peninsular
Malaysia For East Malaysia study on freshwater fish was by Inger and Chin (1990) in
North Borneo
Like all other vertebrates fishes are conventionally grouped as carnovires omnivores
an herbivore on the basis of their food habit They may also be grouped as filter-feeders
detritus-feeders or as predators However most fish can adapt their diet to the available
1
food supply The study on diet and feeding habit is necessary for understanding the
strategy of digestion and the digestive strategy of fish can truly reflects its food habit in
terms of resource utilization (Chakrabarti et al 1995) Other than that the diet analysis
also important for the studies of predation competition trophic level and food web
Nanga Merit is situated in Sarawak Malaysia Its geographical coordinates are 2deg
IT O North 113 deg8 0 East It is located at Kapit division and the people in the area have
been bearing their daily routines with wet padi cultivation Fisheries activities in Nanga
Merit area are carried out in small scale basis either to generate extra income or for
domestic consumption
There are several studies on freshwater fish in Sarawak for example Nyanti et al
(1 999) Lee (2004) Sipin (2005) Atack (2006) and Khairul Adha et al (2009) However
there is no proper documentation on freshwater fish in Nanga Merit Therefore this study
aims to identify the diversity of freshwater fish at Nanga Merit area In addition this study
also aims to detennine feeding behaviors of freshwater fish caught in Nanga Merit Data
obtained in this study will serve as baseline data of freshwater fish in Sarawak
2
CHAPTER II
20 Literature Review
21Freshwater fish composition
211 Freshwater fish composition in Peninsular Malaysia
Mohsin and Ambak (1983) divided Peninsular Malaysia into three main divisions
in based from the view of fish geography and their distribution North-West division
North-East and Central division and Southern division The North-West division has the
least number of fish species compared to the other two divisions due to paddy cultivation
and few rivers have dried up
The largest among the three divisions is North-East and Central division and is
bound by Kedah-Singgora north Rompin to Pahang in the south There are many manshy
made lakes and only one natural lake in Malaysia which is Tasik Chini There are a few
scattered freshwater swamp such as Tasek Bendera In consequence of the many water
bodies present in this divisions it is expected to have greatest abundance of fish fauna
Southern division is mostly dominated by Rasbora spp and the rivers in this division are
slow moving (Mohsin amp Ambak 1983)
According to Mohsin and Ambak (1983) rivers can be divided into zones upper
middle and lower zone The upper zone has a high current velocity high concentration a
sandy bed and a small volume of water carrying The fish fauna commonly found in this
zone are Rasbora sumatrana R elegans Puntius binotatus Luciosoma setigerum and
omaloptera orthogoniata The middle zone has the most fish fauna The lower zone is
the most polluted zone with very high silt loads and its flow rate is influenced by tides
3
212 Freshwater fish composition in Sarawak
Borneo is one of the most diversity areas of the world with many species being
endemic which is found only at a precise location either to the island or to the region
(Atack 2006) The distribution of fishes on Borneo offers a clue to distinguish old and
new elements of fish occurring in the Sunda area (Taki 1975) Atack (2006) stated that
Sarawak of254 freshwater fishes Sarawak River is complex therefore it supports a mix of
freshwater and estuarine species but mostly consists of freshwater species around
Kampung Paroh area
Sarawak River is relatively large river with two tributaries that run through the Bau
limestone region which are Sarawak Kiri and Sarawak Kanan The Kuching Barrage
functions as to control the Sarawak River maintaining a stable water level at the
waterfront and preventing saltwater contamination to water supply by changes of salinity
daily due to flushing of large influx of saltwater This periodic flushing will lead to a
mixed population of freshwater and saltwater fish species upstream of the Barrage (Atack
2006)
According to Nyanti et at (1999) Tor spp would seek shelter in tributaries which
have clear water and relatively low current velocity Sarawaks inland fisheries include a
number of highly valued species such as the cyprinid family locally known as Empurau
and Semah Species other than carp such as Tapah (Wallago sp) and herring locally
known as Terubok (Tenualosa sp) found to have commercial values to the local
community Tor tambroides (Empurau) is a large herbivorous carp that can be found in
clear rocky streams in the upland forest It was once found in most Sarawaks major river
su as Rejang Baram Limbang and the Ai These species are threatened by activities
such as overfishing and habitat degradation (Atack 2006)
4
Pusat Khidmat Maldumat Akademik UNIVERSITI MALAYSIA SABAWAK
22 Feeding Behaviour of Fish
The study of feeding ecology is a essential tool to understand fish roles within their
ecosystems (Hajisamaea et ai 2003) In the same time study of the food and feeding
behavior of freshwater fish is a matter of continuous research since it the basis for
development of a successful fisheries management programme on fish capture and culture
From its food a fish must obtain both macro- and micronutrients (Halver 1989) The range
of potential foods that are available reflects the physical environment The range taken by
a species depends on its ability to detect acquire and process the food (Wootton 1992)
Habitat type is also a significant aspect which influences the feeding approach of a species
by determining foraging opportunities Fishes tend to prefer habitat which has less prey
and capturing of abundant food (Hajisamaea et ai 2003)
Mohsin and Ambak (1983) classified fishes into three main categories which are
herbivore carnivore and omnivore Most of the Malaysia fishes are omnivorous Puntius
gonnionotus Mystus nemurus M villatus Clarias spp Tor tambroides and Chonerhinus
modestus are some of the example The second largest group of fishes is carnivorous that
feed on other animals such as benthic organisms invertebrates crustaceans other fishes
followed by herbivores which eats aquatic plants small or big algae fruits and vegetation
that have dropped into the water (Atack 2006) Many species of fish that live in the
surface waters of the sea feed on plankton which is both zooplankton and phytoplankton
and it can be describe as p1anktivores (Atack 2006)
Based on detail analysis of gut contents it can be concluded that terrestrial insects
and plants are among the majority of food types eaten by freshwater fish in Peninsular
Malaysia (Mohsin amp Ambak 1983) Data on different food items consumed by fish may
e rually result in identification of stable food preference and in creation of trophic
5
models as a tool to understand complex ecosystems (Lopez-Peralta et at 2002 Bachok et
at 2004)
Fish feeding activity is controlled by environments behavior and physiology Fish
diets varies according to area prey availability season time of day and fish size Bhuiyan
et ai (2006) states that the utilization of food and rate of digestion is also influence by the
quality and quantity of available food organisms In general most of a fishs diet consists
ofbenthic invertebrates often supplemented by terrestrial invertebrates
Studies on natural feeding of fish permit to identify the trophic feeding
composition structure and stability of food webs relationships present in aquatic
ecosystems identifying In the same time the study of food and feeding habits of
freshwater fish species is a subject of continuous research because it constituted the basis
for the development of a successful fisheries management program on fish capture and
culture (Oronsaye et ai 2005) Studies on diet composition are important in community
ecology because the use of resources by organisms has a major influence on population
interactions within a community (Mequilla 2007)
24 Fish dietary analysis
Through the examination of the gut content analysis the feeding behavior of
freshwater fishes can be determined The analyses were limited to food items found in the
gut and esophagus to increase the possibility that the food item had been eaten recently and
in the habitat where the fish were caught (Wennhage et aI 2002 Tan 2004 Hasnidah
2005) Most studies of the feeding ecology of teleost fish in their natural habitats have
6
emphasized the temporal and systematic aspects of a particular species (Hofer amp Schiemer
198 1 )
For dietary analysis only the stomach content is considered most important This
analysis is significant for the study of predation competitions trophic level and food web
in the ecosystem (Anderson 2000 Tan 2004 Luna et al 2008) Furthermore without the
knowledge of dietary relationships among organism community structure and population
interaction are difficult to assume (Layman amp Silliman 2002)
During the feeding activity one should consider the percentage of empty stomach
in a sample as well as composition and state of digestion of each prey in each fish gut at
each sampling since feeding activity is controlled by environments behavior and
physiology There are three methods of gut content analysis which are numerical
volumetric and gravimetric analysis However the suitable methods depends on the study
and food type to be analyzed (Windwell et al 1978 Tan 2004 Hasnidah 2005)
7
CHAPTER III
30 Materials and Methods
31 Study Area
This study was carried out at Nanga Merit Kapit Sarawak (Fig 31) Study areas
covers nine stations namely station 1 (Sg Sebulut) station 2 (Sg Seririt) station 3 (Sg
Beluti) station 4 (Sg Temulan) station 5 (Sg Merit- upper area) station 6 (Sg Meritshy
middle area) station 7 (Sg Merit- lower area) station 8 (Sg Rajang-east part) and station
9 (Sg Rajang- west part) (Fig 1)
32 Fish sampling
Fishes were collected using cast net with stretched mesh size of I5cm 2m long In
several stations gill net with stretched mesh of 15cm was used All species were
identified follow those from Mohsin and Ambak (1983) Robert (1989) Inger and Chin
(1990) and Kottelat et ai (1993) Photograph of each species was taken for record The
total length (em) standard length (cm) was measured using measuring board and the wet
weight (gram) was measured using weighting scale and recorded accordingly The
specimens were preserved in 10 formalin in the field and later replaced with 70
ethanol after two weeks in the laboratory
Fish gut was dissected from each species after identification accomplished The
guts were pre-mixed into 10 formalin and then the contents were completely emptied
into labeled Petri dish containing 70 ethanol AU species were identified follows those
Kot clat et ai (1993) Data analysis of biological indices such as Shannon-Weiner
8
Diversity Index (H) Margalef Richness Index (D) and Pielou Similarity Index (J) were
used
N
T
Figure 1 Locations of the sampling sites involved in this study
Keys
1- Sungai Sebulut 4- Sungai Temulan 7- Sungai Merit (lower)
2- Sungai Seririt 5- Sungai Merit (upper) 8- Sungai Rajang (east part)
- Sungai Beluti 6- Sungai Merit (middle) 9- Sungai Rajang (west part)
9
~LIlDOlratlory analysis
331Fish diet analysis
Based on the results of gut content analysis the diet of freshwater fish species at
The preserved gut was washed with tap water and was then cut open and the entire
contents were removed and were placed on the Petri dish The gut contents of each
were analyzed under the compound microscope Identification of the gut
IfllllOUIiJ Was made based on the morphology characteristics of each organism The number
item in the contents will be counted in a grid Petri dish Items were identified to the
taxonomic level and unidentified food materials were counted as unidentified The
iIIIliticatl()o of the gut contents will be made based on Sze (1993) and Pechenik (2000)
332Gut content analysis
The guts were dissected and the contents were examined under compound
OS(ope The following categories of contents are considered fish insects (both
and terrestrial) zooplankton microbenthos macrophytes filamentous algae
and planktonic) other phytoplankton and pollen and seeds
Analysis of gut using dissection was conducted using a sharp and fine dissecting
for the incision Once the intact gut has been dissected it was place on a clean
rosco~1e slide The gut contents were tease from the gut or foregut with a fine
_lCtiIltg pin or fine forceps and disperse in slide It was placed a cover slip over the
pressed gently to spread the gut material and then dry the slide on a slide
10
warmer The gut contents was examine and identified its components as accurately as
possible
To measure the gut contents of the gut and to estimate the frequency of occurrence
in the stomach numerical (quantitative) method will be used The diet analysis will be
analyzed on their Food Composition (Cn) and Frequency of Occurrence (F) (Hyslop 1980
Tan 2004 Hasnidah 2005)
Frequency of Occurrence
To estimate the proportion of the population that feed on the particular food items
F =(AlB) x 100
Where
A =Number of guts containing a particular food item
B =Total number of guts being analyzed
Food Composition
The comparison of numerical percentage in the types of food inside the guts and the
potential of food taken by fishes will give the information about the food selection
Cn =(CD) x 100
Where
C = Number of food items of a given type in all specimens
D =Total number of all food items that are found in all specimens
11
34 Data analysis for Fish Composition
To analyze the fish composition analysis of biological indices such as Shannon-Weiner
Diversity Index (H) Margalef Richness Index (D) and Pielou Similarity Index (J) will be
used as follows
Shannon and Weiner Diversity Index (H) ( Shannon and Weaver 1963)
H =-Ipi In pi
Where
pi = NilN (Ni = Total number of individuals of species i)
N = total number of individuals of all species
Margalef Richness Index (D) (Margalef 1968)
D= S-1I10g N
where
S = total number of species
N =total number of individuals of all species
Pielou Similarity Index (J) (Pielou 1966)
J= HI In S
Where
H = diversity index
S =total number of species
12
CHAPTER IV
40 RESULT AND DISCUSSION
41 Fish Assemblages
A total of 106 individua1s from fifteen species belonging to 5 families and 11 genus
namely Bagridae Cyprinidae Mastacembelidae Pangasidae and Siluridae were caught
during this project
bull Bagridae
bull Cyprinidae
Mastacembelidae
bull Pangasidae
Siluridae
Figure 2 Percentage of freshwater fish based on family obtained during this project
Family Cyprinidae (604) are the dominant family inhabiting Nanga Merit
followed by family Siluridae (226) Bagridae (151 ) Mastacembelidae (09) and
Pangasidae (09) (Fig 2) This finding is supported by Nyanti et al (1995) where they
reported approximately 66 fish caught were family Cyprinidae in Batang Rajang This
si ti n was also in accordance with Ismail (1994) who stated that the freshwater habitat
of Southeast Asia was dominated by cyprinid fish Similar results were obtained by
13
Khairul Adha et al (2009) where they reported that Batang Kerang was dominated by
Cyprinidae Approximately 33 of freshwater fish in the Western Borneo mostly are
dominated by Cyprinidae (Robert 1989)
The species belonging to family Cyprinidae found in all stations except Station 9
The absence of fish from family Cyprinidae in Station 9 is probably due to the technical
error during fish sampling The dominant genera in terms of total number of individuals
caught were represented by Cyclocheichthys (236) Rasbora (142) and Barbodes
(1 23) Nyanti et al (1999) documented genera Nematabramis and Tor representing
324 and 168 respectively as the dominant genera in Kelabit Highland This contrast
findings found between these two studies may be due to the sampling period This study
was conducted their samplings during dry season whereas Nyanti et al (1999) conducted
during raining season
In this study Nematabramis borneesis was found only in Station 1 with only two
individual In contrast with study done by Nyanti et at (1999) recorded a total of 168
individuals of Nematabramis borneesis in Kelabit Highland Station 8 has the highest
number of species with eight individual recorded whereas Station 2 4 and 5 recorded the
lowest nwnber of species with only one individuals (Table 1)
The abundance of Rasbora is coherent with the characteristics of the stations
Rasbora argyrotaemia has been found only in clear water over gravel bottom in North
Borneo (Inger amp Chin 1990) This species live in a moderate to fast flowing streams with
sandy bottoms and fast flowing rivers with gravel and rocky susbtrate (Kottelat et at
1993 Rachmatika2005) Furthermore the habitat is characterized by heavy vegetation
middotch most likely serves as a nursery grounds Sipin (2004) had carried out a study on
14
diversity of fish in Sungai Kesit Batang Lemanak Sarawak and he also recorded Rasbora
as the dominant genus
Kryptopterus limpok was found in Station 7 which recorded a total of 22
individuals compared to other stations (Table 1) Family Bagridae and Siluridae were
found at Station 7 8 and 9 which represent Sungai Merit (lower part) Sungai Rajang (east
part) and Sungai Rajang (west part) Atirah (2010) recorded to have 349ftu for turbidity
and 506 for pH water in Station 7 Khairul Adha et al (2009) reported that Bagridae and
Siluridae have the ability to adapt in water with low dissolved oxygen levels and high
acidic water Atack (2006) added that Bagridae live in downstream to the tidal brackish
waters oflarger rivers
Mastacembelidae keithi was found only at Station 8 that comprises an area of fast
flowing turbid water and muddy bottom Inger and Chin (1990) recorded that most
individuals of this species were caught over silty bottom sand gravel and rock In
addition Martin-Smith and Tan (1998) documented that at Danum Valley Eastern of
Sabah has fewer individuals of this species in which it was never abundant and only few
individuals found in leaf banks or under log debris or log During dry season some of this
species burrow into the bottom mud (Graham 1997 Berra 2001)
The distribution of fish is also influence by the biological factors of the aquatic
environment namely the availability of food items (Khairul Adha et al2009 Cyprino et
al2008 Moyle et al 2000)
The number of catch in this study was low comparing to other studies for example
Khairul Adha et al (2009) documented a total of 234 individuals were caught in Batang
g and Nyanti et al (1999) reported a total of 521 individuals were caught in Kelabit
Highland in Sarawak This may due to the effect of poisoning and low water level during
15
~----------------------------------------
NANGA MERIT FISHES ASSEMBLAGES AND THEIR FEEDING BEHAVIORS
Farah Adibah Esa
Department of Aquatic Science
Faculty of Resource Science and Technology
Universiti Malaysia Sarawak
ABSTRACT
This study was conducted to identify the diversity of freshwater fish and their teeding behavior in Nanga Merit A total
of 106 individuals comprising 15 families belonging to 5 families and II genera were caught Cyprinidae and Siluridae
were identified to be the dominant family representing 604 and 226 respectively The commonly caught individuals
wcr from the genera Cyclocheichillys (236) Rasbora (142) and Bmbodrs (123) Low number of individuals
was obtained during this study most probably due to the effects of poisoning (commercial pesticides and tuba sap) and
the low water level during dry season There three main feeding behavior of fish in Nanga Merit namely carnivore
herbivore and omnivore Based on the diet analysis the major types consumed are diatoms algae and invertebrates
lwonns nematodes copepod rotifer and larvae chironomid) Data obtained during this project serves as baseline data for
freshwater fish in Sarawak
Keyword Cyprinidae freshwater fish feeding behavior Nanga Mrit
K(1jian in lelall dijalankan bag mengenalpasl kepelbagaian kOlllllili ikan air lawar dan labial pelllakanan di Nanga
Meril DlIa jenis penangkapan ikan lelali diglln(lnkan iailu pukal hanYIII dan jala Sebanyak 106 individual lereliri
duripada 5 jamiii dan II genera lelall dilangkap Cyprinidae dan Siluridae didaplli mendoll1inasi kawasan Nanga Meril
dun Ifasillg-111asing l11ewakili 604 dan 226 Ikan yang lebih kerap dilangkap lerdiri daripada genlls
Cyclocheicllyhys (236) Rasbora (42) dan Bbodes (23) lIInlali individllal yang rendah dilangkap
berilllmllngkinan kerana kesan racln (peslisida dan IIba sub) dan paras air yang rendaft kerana 11111sim kering TOdapal
liga kllmpllall labial pell1akallan iailll kallivor herbivor dln omnivor Berdaslrkan ana lisa diel makalan IIlalla yang
dinakan adalaft dialom alga dan illverlcbrale (Ullll nonalode kopepoda rOlifer dan larvae cliirolollid) Dala yang
dipero lelri di dalam projck ini adalcdl sebagai garispanduan dallillUk ikon air I war di Sarallak
Kata Kunci Cyprinidae ikan air tawar tabiat pemakanan Nanga Merit
v
CHAPTER I
10 Introduction
In Malaysia freshwater fish is the source of livelihood and is the main protein
source for many rural communities and its consumption is widespread Freshwater fish
distributions cover lenthic and lotic environment and inhabit a great variety of habitats
ranging from small torrential streams to estuarine (Mohsin amp Ambak 1983) Freshwater
fishes are found only in a specific type of habitat and its salinity is the critical factor that
separates freshwater species from marine (Atack 2006)
Studies on fish fauna had been carried out in Penang (Alfred 1963) Nouthern
Selangor peat swamp forest (Davies amp Abdullah 1989) Sayap-Kinabalu Park (Nyanti
1998) Kelabit Highlands (Nyanti et at 1999) Crocker Range Park (Khairul Adha et at
2002) North Park peat swamp forest (Shah et at 2006) and Ulu Tungud Mehau Range at
Sandakan (Amirrudin et at 2006) In Sarawak studies on fish fauna had been carried out
for Gunung Mulu National Park Bau Limestone region and Baram (Atack 2006)
The freshwater fish fauna of Peninsular Malaysia is highly diverse Zakaria-Ismail
(1992) estimated that there are approximately 300 species of freshwater fishes in Malaysia
He listed 259 speceis of native freshwater fishes in Peninsular Malaysia Most of the fish
species diversity occurs in the tropical area (Kottelat et aI 1993) Mohsin and Ambak
(1983) listed a total of382 species of freshwater fish representing 56 familes in Peninsular
Malaysia For East Malaysia study on freshwater fish was by Inger and Chin (1990) in
North Borneo
Like all other vertebrates fishes are conventionally grouped as carnovires omnivores
an herbivore on the basis of their food habit They may also be grouped as filter-feeders
detritus-feeders or as predators However most fish can adapt their diet to the available
1
food supply The study on diet and feeding habit is necessary for understanding the
strategy of digestion and the digestive strategy of fish can truly reflects its food habit in
terms of resource utilization (Chakrabarti et al 1995) Other than that the diet analysis
also important for the studies of predation competition trophic level and food web
Nanga Merit is situated in Sarawak Malaysia Its geographical coordinates are 2deg
IT O North 113 deg8 0 East It is located at Kapit division and the people in the area have
been bearing their daily routines with wet padi cultivation Fisheries activities in Nanga
Merit area are carried out in small scale basis either to generate extra income or for
domestic consumption
There are several studies on freshwater fish in Sarawak for example Nyanti et al
(1 999) Lee (2004) Sipin (2005) Atack (2006) and Khairul Adha et al (2009) However
there is no proper documentation on freshwater fish in Nanga Merit Therefore this study
aims to identify the diversity of freshwater fish at Nanga Merit area In addition this study
also aims to detennine feeding behaviors of freshwater fish caught in Nanga Merit Data
obtained in this study will serve as baseline data of freshwater fish in Sarawak
2
CHAPTER II
20 Literature Review
21Freshwater fish composition
211 Freshwater fish composition in Peninsular Malaysia
Mohsin and Ambak (1983) divided Peninsular Malaysia into three main divisions
in based from the view of fish geography and their distribution North-West division
North-East and Central division and Southern division The North-West division has the
least number of fish species compared to the other two divisions due to paddy cultivation
and few rivers have dried up
The largest among the three divisions is North-East and Central division and is
bound by Kedah-Singgora north Rompin to Pahang in the south There are many manshy
made lakes and only one natural lake in Malaysia which is Tasik Chini There are a few
scattered freshwater swamp such as Tasek Bendera In consequence of the many water
bodies present in this divisions it is expected to have greatest abundance of fish fauna
Southern division is mostly dominated by Rasbora spp and the rivers in this division are
slow moving (Mohsin amp Ambak 1983)
According to Mohsin and Ambak (1983) rivers can be divided into zones upper
middle and lower zone The upper zone has a high current velocity high concentration a
sandy bed and a small volume of water carrying The fish fauna commonly found in this
zone are Rasbora sumatrana R elegans Puntius binotatus Luciosoma setigerum and
omaloptera orthogoniata The middle zone has the most fish fauna The lower zone is
the most polluted zone with very high silt loads and its flow rate is influenced by tides
3
212 Freshwater fish composition in Sarawak
Borneo is one of the most diversity areas of the world with many species being
endemic which is found only at a precise location either to the island or to the region
(Atack 2006) The distribution of fishes on Borneo offers a clue to distinguish old and
new elements of fish occurring in the Sunda area (Taki 1975) Atack (2006) stated that
Sarawak of254 freshwater fishes Sarawak River is complex therefore it supports a mix of
freshwater and estuarine species but mostly consists of freshwater species around
Kampung Paroh area
Sarawak River is relatively large river with two tributaries that run through the Bau
limestone region which are Sarawak Kiri and Sarawak Kanan The Kuching Barrage
functions as to control the Sarawak River maintaining a stable water level at the
waterfront and preventing saltwater contamination to water supply by changes of salinity
daily due to flushing of large influx of saltwater This periodic flushing will lead to a
mixed population of freshwater and saltwater fish species upstream of the Barrage (Atack
2006)
According to Nyanti et at (1999) Tor spp would seek shelter in tributaries which
have clear water and relatively low current velocity Sarawaks inland fisheries include a
number of highly valued species such as the cyprinid family locally known as Empurau
and Semah Species other than carp such as Tapah (Wallago sp) and herring locally
known as Terubok (Tenualosa sp) found to have commercial values to the local
community Tor tambroides (Empurau) is a large herbivorous carp that can be found in
clear rocky streams in the upland forest It was once found in most Sarawaks major river
su as Rejang Baram Limbang and the Ai These species are threatened by activities
such as overfishing and habitat degradation (Atack 2006)
4
Pusat Khidmat Maldumat Akademik UNIVERSITI MALAYSIA SABAWAK
22 Feeding Behaviour of Fish
The study of feeding ecology is a essential tool to understand fish roles within their
ecosystems (Hajisamaea et ai 2003) In the same time study of the food and feeding
behavior of freshwater fish is a matter of continuous research since it the basis for
development of a successful fisheries management programme on fish capture and culture
From its food a fish must obtain both macro- and micronutrients (Halver 1989) The range
of potential foods that are available reflects the physical environment The range taken by
a species depends on its ability to detect acquire and process the food (Wootton 1992)
Habitat type is also a significant aspect which influences the feeding approach of a species
by determining foraging opportunities Fishes tend to prefer habitat which has less prey
and capturing of abundant food (Hajisamaea et ai 2003)
Mohsin and Ambak (1983) classified fishes into three main categories which are
herbivore carnivore and omnivore Most of the Malaysia fishes are omnivorous Puntius
gonnionotus Mystus nemurus M villatus Clarias spp Tor tambroides and Chonerhinus
modestus are some of the example The second largest group of fishes is carnivorous that
feed on other animals such as benthic organisms invertebrates crustaceans other fishes
followed by herbivores which eats aquatic plants small or big algae fruits and vegetation
that have dropped into the water (Atack 2006) Many species of fish that live in the
surface waters of the sea feed on plankton which is both zooplankton and phytoplankton
and it can be describe as p1anktivores (Atack 2006)
Based on detail analysis of gut contents it can be concluded that terrestrial insects
and plants are among the majority of food types eaten by freshwater fish in Peninsular
Malaysia (Mohsin amp Ambak 1983) Data on different food items consumed by fish may
e rually result in identification of stable food preference and in creation of trophic
5
models as a tool to understand complex ecosystems (Lopez-Peralta et at 2002 Bachok et
at 2004)
Fish feeding activity is controlled by environments behavior and physiology Fish
diets varies according to area prey availability season time of day and fish size Bhuiyan
et ai (2006) states that the utilization of food and rate of digestion is also influence by the
quality and quantity of available food organisms In general most of a fishs diet consists
ofbenthic invertebrates often supplemented by terrestrial invertebrates
Studies on natural feeding of fish permit to identify the trophic feeding
composition structure and stability of food webs relationships present in aquatic
ecosystems identifying In the same time the study of food and feeding habits of
freshwater fish species is a subject of continuous research because it constituted the basis
for the development of a successful fisheries management program on fish capture and
culture (Oronsaye et ai 2005) Studies on diet composition are important in community
ecology because the use of resources by organisms has a major influence on population
interactions within a community (Mequilla 2007)
24 Fish dietary analysis
Through the examination of the gut content analysis the feeding behavior of
freshwater fishes can be determined The analyses were limited to food items found in the
gut and esophagus to increase the possibility that the food item had been eaten recently and
in the habitat where the fish were caught (Wennhage et aI 2002 Tan 2004 Hasnidah
2005) Most studies of the feeding ecology of teleost fish in their natural habitats have
6
emphasized the temporal and systematic aspects of a particular species (Hofer amp Schiemer
198 1 )
For dietary analysis only the stomach content is considered most important This
analysis is significant for the study of predation competitions trophic level and food web
in the ecosystem (Anderson 2000 Tan 2004 Luna et al 2008) Furthermore without the
knowledge of dietary relationships among organism community structure and population
interaction are difficult to assume (Layman amp Silliman 2002)
During the feeding activity one should consider the percentage of empty stomach
in a sample as well as composition and state of digestion of each prey in each fish gut at
each sampling since feeding activity is controlled by environments behavior and
physiology There are three methods of gut content analysis which are numerical
volumetric and gravimetric analysis However the suitable methods depends on the study
and food type to be analyzed (Windwell et al 1978 Tan 2004 Hasnidah 2005)
7
CHAPTER III
30 Materials and Methods
31 Study Area
This study was carried out at Nanga Merit Kapit Sarawak (Fig 31) Study areas
covers nine stations namely station 1 (Sg Sebulut) station 2 (Sg Seririt) station 3 (Sg
Beluti) station 4 (Sg Temulan) station 5 (Sg Merit- upper area) station 6 (Sg Meritshy
middle area) station 7 (Sg Merit- lower area) station 8 (Sg Rajang-east part) and station
9 (Sg Rajang- west part) (Fig 1)
32 Fish sampling
Fishes were collected using cast net with stretched mesh size of I5cm 2m long In
several stations gill net with stretched mesh of 15cm was used All species were
identified follow those from Mohsin and Ambak (1983) Robert (1989) Inger and Chin
(1990) and Kottelat et ai (1993) Photograph of each species was taken for record The
total length (em) standard length (cm) was measured using measuring board and the wet
weight (gram) was measured using weighting scale and recorded accordingly The
specimens were preserved in 10 formalin in the field and later replaced with 70
ethanol after two weeks in the laboratory
Fish gut was dissected from each species after identification accomplished The
guts were pre-mixed into 10 formalin and then the contents were completely emptied
into labeled Petri dish containing 70 ethanol AU species were identified follows those
Kot clat et ai (1993) Data analysis of biological indices such as Shannon-Weiner
8
Diversity Index (H) Margalef Richness Index (D) and Pielou Similarity Index (J) were
used
N
T
Figure 1 Locations of the sampling sites involved in this study
Keys
1- Sungai Sebulut 4- Sungai Temulan 7- Sungai Merit (lower)
2- Sungai Seririt 5- Sungai Merit (upper) 8- Sungai Rajang (east part)
- Sungai Beluti 6- Sungai Merit (middle) 9- Sungai Rajang (west part)
9
~LIlDOlratlory analysis
331Fish diet analysis
Based on the results of gut content analysis the diet of freshwater fish species at
The preserved gut was washed with tap water and was then cut open and the entire
contents were removed and were placed on the Petri dish The gut contents of each
were analyzed under the compound microscope Identification of the gut
IfllllOUIiJ Was made based on the morphology characteristics of each organism The number
item in the contents will be counted in a grid Petri dish Items were identified to the
taxonomic level and unidentified food materials were counted as unidentified The
iIIIliticatl()o of the gut contents will be made based on Sze (1993) and Pechenik (2000)
332Gut content analysis
The guts were dissected and the contents were examined under compound
OS(ope The following categories of contents are considered fish insects (both
and terrestrial) zooplankton microbenthos macrophytes filamentous algae
and planktonic) other phytoplankton and pollen and seeds
Analysis of gut using dissection was conducted using a sharp and fine dissecting
for the incision Once the intact gut has been dissected it was place on a clean
rosco~1e slide The gut contents were tease from the gut or foregut with a fine
_lCtiIltg pin or fine forceps and disperse in slide It was placed a cover slip over the
pressed gently to spread the gut material and then dry the slide on a slide
10
warmer The gut contents was examine and identified its components as accurately as
possible
To measure the gut contents of the gut and to estimate the frequency of occurrence
in the stomach numerical (quantitative) method will be used The diet analysis will be
analyzed on their Food Composition (Cn) and Frequency of Occurrence (F) (Hyslop 1980
Tan 2004 Hasnidah 2005)
Frequency of Occurrence
To estimate the proportion of the population that feed on the particular food items
F =(AlB) x 100
Where
A =Number of guts containing a particular food item
B =Total number of guts being analyzed
Food Composition
The comparison of numerical percentage in the types of food inside the guts and the
potential of food taken by fishes will give the information about the food selection
Cn =(CD) x 100
Where
C = Number of food items of a given type in all specimens
D =Total number of all food items that are found in all specimens
11
34 Data analysis for Fish Composition
To analyze the fish composition analysis of biological indices such as Shannon-Weiner
Diversity Index (H) Margalef Richness Index (D) and Pielou Similarity Index (J) will be
used as follows
Shannon and Weiner Diversity Index (H) ( Shannon and Weaver 1963)
H =-Ipi In pi
Where
pi = NilN (Ni = Total number of individuals of species i)
N = total number of individuals of all species
Margalef Richness Index (D) (Margalef 1968)
D= S-1I10g N
where
S = total number of species
N =total number of individuals of all species
Pielou Similarity Index (J) (Pielou 1966)
J= HI In S
Where
H = diversity index
S =total number of species
12
CHAPTER IV
40 RESULT AND DISCUSSION
41 Fish Assemblages
A total of 106 individua1s from fifteen species belonging to 5 families and 11 genus
namely Bagridae Cyprinidae Mastacembelidae Pangasidae and Siluridae were caught
during this project
bull Bagridae
bull Cyprinidae
Mastacembelidae
bull Pangasidae
Siluridae
Figure 2 Percentage of freshwater fish based on family obtained during this project
Family Cyprinidae (604) are the dominant family inhabiting Nanga Merit
followed by family Siluridae (226) Bagridae (151 ) Mastacembelidae (09) and
Pangasidae (09) (Fig 2) This finding is supported by Nyanti et al (1995) where they
reported approximately 66 fish caught were family Cyprinidae in Batang Rajang This
si ti n was also in accordance with Ismail (1994) who stated that the freshwater habitat
of Southeast Asia was dominated by cyprinid fish Similar results were obtained by
13
Khairul Adha et al (2009) where they reported that Batang Kerang was dominated by
Cyprinidae Approximately 33 of freshwater fish in the Western Borneo mostly are
dominated by Cyprinidae (Robert 1989)
The species belonging to family Cyprinidae found in all stations except Station 9
The absence of fish from family Cyprinidae in Station 9 is probably due to the technical
error during fish sampling The dominant genera in terms of total number of individuals
caught were represented by Cyclocheichthys (236) Rasbora (142) and Barbodes
(1 23) Nyanti et al (1999) documented genera Nematabramis and Tor representing
324 and 168 respectively as the dominant genera in Kelabit Highland This contrast
findings found between these two studies may be due to the sampling period This study
was conducted their samplings during dry season whereas Nyanti et al (1999) conducted
during raining season
In this study Nematabramis borneesis was found only in Station 1 with only two
individual In contrast with study done by Nyanti et at (1999) recorded a total of 168
individuals of Nematabramis borneesis in Kelabit Highland Station 8 has the highest
number of species with eight individual recorded whereas Station 2 4 and 5 recorded the
lowest nwnber of species with only one individuals (Table 1)
The abundance of Rasbora is coherent with the characteristics of the stations
Rasbora argyrotaemia has been found only in clear water over gravel bottom in North
Borneo (Inger amp Chin 1990) This species live in a moderate to fast flowing streams with
sandy bottoms and fast flowing rivers with gravel and rocky susbtrate (Kottelat et at
1993 Rachmatika2005) Furthermore the habitat is characterized by heavy vegetation
middotch most likely serves as a nursery grounds Sipin (2004) had carried out a study on
14
diversity of fish in Sungai Kesit Batang Lemanak Sarawak and he also recorded Rasbora
as the dominant genus
Kryptopterus limpok was found in Station 7 which recorded a total of 22
individuals compared to other stations (Table 1) Family Bagridae and Siluridae were
found at Station 7 8 and 9 which represent Sungai Merit (lower part) Sungai Rajang (east
part) and Sungai Rajang (west part) Atirah (2010) recorded to have 349ftu for turbidity
and 506 for pH water in Station 7 Khairul Adha et al (2009) reported that Bagridae and
Siluridae have the ability to adapt in water with low dissolved oxygen levels and high
acidic water Atack (2006) added that Bagridae live in downstream to the tidal brackish
waters oflarger rivers
Mastacembelidae keithi was found only at Station 8 that comprises an area of fast
flowing turbid water and muddy bottom Inger and Chin (1990) recorded that most
individuals of this species were caught over silty bottom sand gravel and rock In
addition Martin-Smith and Tan (1998) documented that at Danum Valley Eastern of
Sabah has fewer individuals of this species in which it was never abundant and only few
individuals found in leaf banks or under log debris or log During dry season some of this
species burrow into the bottom mud (Graham 1997 Berra 2001)
The distribution of fish is also influence by the biological factors of the aquatic
environment namely the availability of food items (Khairul Adha et al2009 Cyprino et
al2008 Moyle et al 2000)
The number of catch in this study was low comparing to other studies for example
Khairul Adha et al (2009) documented a total of 234 individuals were caught in Batang
g and Nyanti et al (1999) reported a total of 521 individuals were caught in Kelabit
Highland in Sarawak This may due to the effect of poisoning and low water level during
15
CHAPTER I
10 Introduction
In Malaysia freshwater fish is the source of livelihood and is the main protein
source for many rural communities and its consumption is widespread Freshwater fish
distributions cover lenthic and lotic environment and inhabit a great variety of habitats
ranging from small torrential streams to estuarine (Mohsin amp Ambak 1983) Freshwater
fishes are found only in a specific type of habitat and its salinity is the critical factor that
separates freshwater species from marine (Atack 2006)
Studies on fish fauna had been carried out in Penang (Alfred 1963) Nouthern
Selangor peat swamp forest (Davies amp Abdullah 1989) Sayap-Kinabalu Park (Nyanti
1998) Kelabit Highlands (Nyanti et at 1999) Crocker Range Park (Khairul Adha et at
2002) North Park peat swamp forest (Shah et at 2006) and Ulu Tungud Mehau Range at
Sandakan (Amirrudin et at 2006) In Sarawak studies on fish fauna had been carried out
for Gunung Mulu National Park Bau Limestone region and Baram (Atack 2006)
The freshwater fish fauna of Peninsular Malaysia is highly diverse Zakaria-Ismail
(1992) estimated that there are approximately 300 species of freshwater fishes in Malaysia
He listed 259 speceis of native freshwater fishes in Peninsular Malaysia Most of the fish
species diversity occurs in the tropical area (Kottelat et aI 1993) Mohsin and Ambak
(1983) listed a total of382 species of freshwater fish representing 56 familes in Peninsular
Malaysia For East Malaysia study on freshwater fish was by Inger and Chin (1990) in
North Borneo
Like all other vertebrates fishes are conventionally grouped as carnovires omnivores
an herbivore on the basis of their food habit They may also be grouped as filter-feeders
detritus-feeders or as predators However most fish can adapt their diet to the available
1
food supply The study on diet and feeding habit is necessary for understanding the
strategy of digestion and the digestive strategy of fish can truly reflects its food habit in
terms of resource utilization (Chakrabarti et al 1995) Other than that the diet analysis
also important for the studies of predation competition trophic level and food web
Nanga Merit is situated in Sarawak Malaysia Its geographical coordinates are 2deg
IT O North 113 deg8 0 East It is located at Kapit division and the people in the area have
been bearing their daily routines with wet padi cultivation Fisheries activities in Nanga
Merit area are carried out in small scale basis either to generate extra income or for
domestic consumption
There are several studies on freshwater fish in Sarawak for example Nyanti et al
(1 999) Lee (2004) Sipin (2005) Atack (2006) and Khairul Adha et al (2009) However
there is no proper documentation on freshwater fish in Nanga Merit Therefore this study
aims to identify the diversity of freshwater fish at Nanga Merit area In addition this study
also aims to detennine feeding behaviors of freshwater fish caught in Nanga Merit Data
obtained in this study will serve as baseline data of freshwater fish in Sarawak
2
CHAPTER II
20 Literature Review
21Freshwater fish composition
211 Freshwater fish composition in Peninsular Malaysia
Mohsin and Ambak (1983) divided Peninsular Malaysia into three main divisions
in based from the view of fish geography and their distribution North-West division
North-East and Central division and Southern division The North-West division has the
least number of fish species compared to the other two divisions due to paddy cultivation
and few rivers have dried up
The largest among the three divisions is North-East and Central division and is
bound by Kedah-Singgora north Rompin to Pahang in the south There are many manshy
made lakes and only one natural lake in Malaysia which is Tasik Chini There are a few
scattered freshwater swamp such as Tasek Bendera In consequence of the many water
bodies present in this divisions it is expected to have greatest abundance of fish fauna
Southern division is mostly dominated by Rasbora spp and the rivers in this division are
slow moving (Mohsin amp Ambak 1983)
According to Mohsin and Ambak (1983) rivers can be divided into zones upper
middle and lower zone The upper zone has a high current velocity high concentration a
sandy bed and a small volume of water carrying The fish fauna commonly found in this
zone are Rasbora sumatrana R elegans Puntius binotatus Luciosoma setigerum and
omaloptera orthogoniata The middle zone has the most fish fauna The lower zone is
the most polluted zone with very high silt loads and its flow rate is influenced by tides
3
212 Freshwater fish composition in Sarawak
Borneo is one of the most diversity areas of the world with many species being
endemic which is found only at a precise location either to the island or to the region
(Atack 2006) The distribution of fishes on Borneo offers a clue to distinguish old and
new elements of fish occurring in the Sunda area (Taki 1975) Atack (2006) stated that
Sarawak of254 freshwater fishes Sarawak River is complex therefore it supports a mix of
freshwater and estuarine species but mostly consists of freshwater species around
Kampung Paroh area
Sarawak River is relatively large river with two tributaries that run through the Bau
limestone region which are Sarawak Kiri and Sarawak Kanan The Kuching Barrage
functions as to control the Sarawak River maintaining a stable water level at the
waterfront and preventing saltwater contamination to water supply by changes of salinity
daily due to flushing of large influx of saltwater This periodic flushing will lead to a
mixed population of freshwater and saltwater fish species upstream of the Barrage (Atack
2006)
According to Nyanti et at (1999) Tor spp would seek shelter in tributaries which
have clear water and relatively low current velocity Sarawaks inland fisheries include a
number of highly valued species such as the cyprinid family locally known as Empurau
and Semah Species other than carp such as Tapah (Wallago sp) and herring locally
known as Terubok (Tenualosa sp) found to have commercial values to the local
community Tor tambroides (Empurau) is a large herbivorous carp that can be found in
clear rocky streams in the upland forest It was once found in most Sarawaks major river
su as Rejang Baram Limbang and the Ai These species are threatened by activities
such as overfishing and habitat degradation (Atack 2006)
4
Pusat Khidmat Maldumat Akademik UNIVERSITI MALAYSIA SABAWAK
22 Feeding Behaviour of Fish
The study of feeding ecology is a essential tool to understand fish roles within their
ecosystems (Hajisamaea et ai 2003) In the same time study of the food and feeding
behavior of freshwater fish is a matter of continuous research since it the basis for
development of a successful fisheries management programme on fish capture and culture
From its food a fish must obtain both macro- and micronutrients (Halver 1989) The range
of potential foods that are available reflects the physical environment The range taken by
a species depends on its ability to detect acquire and process the food (Wootton 1992)
Habitat type is also a significant aspect which influences the feeding approach of a species
by determining foraging opportunities Fishes tend to prefer habitat which has less prey
and capturing of abundant food (Hajisamaea et ai 2003)
Mohsin and Ambak (1983) classified fishes into three main categories which are
herbivore carnivore and omnivore Most of the Malaysia fishes are omnivorous Puntius
gonnionotus Mystus nemurus M villatus Clarias spp Tor tambroides and Chonerhinus
modestus are some of the example The second largest group of fishes is carnivorous that
feed on other animals such as benthic organisms invertebrates crustaceans other fishes
followed by herbivores which eats aquatic plants small or big algae fruits and vegetation
that have dropped into the water (Atack 2006) Many species of fish that live in the
surface waters of the sea feed on plankton which is both zooplankton and phytoplankton
and it can be describe as p1anktivores (Atack 2006)
Based on detail analysis of gut contents it can be concluded that terrestrial insects
and plants are among the majority of food types eaten by freshwater fish in Peninsular
Malaysia (Mohsin amp Ambak 1983) Data on different food items consumed by fish may
e rually result in identification of stable food preference and in creation of trophic
5
models as a tool to understand complex ecosystems (Lopez-Peralta et at 2002 Bachok et
at 2004)
Fish feeding activity is controlled by environments behavior and physiology Fish
diets varies according to area prey availability season time of day and fish size Bhuiyan
et ai (2006) states that the utilization of food and rate of digestion is also influence by the
quality and quantity of available food organisms In general most of a fishs diet consists
ofbenthic invertebrates often supplemented by terrestrial invertebrates
Studies on natural feeding of fish permit to identify the trophic feeding
composition structure and stability of food webs relationships present in aquatic
ecosystems identifying In the same time the study of food and feeding habits of
freshwater fish species is a subject of continuous research because it constituted the basis
for the development of a successful fisheries management program on fish capture and
culture (Oronsaye et ai 2005) Studies on diet composition are important in community
ecology because the use of resources by organisms has a major influence on population
interactions within a community (Mequilla 2007)
24 Fish dietary analysis
Through the examination of the gut content analysis the feeding behavior of
freshwater fishes can be determined The analyses were limited to food items found in the
gut and esophagus to increase the possibility that the food item had been eaten recently and
in the habitat where the fish were caught (Wennhage et aI 2002 Tan 2004 Hasnidah
2005) Most studies of the feeding ecology of teleost fish in their natural habitats have
6
emphasized the temporal and systematic aspects of a particular species (Hofer amp Schiemer
198 1 )
For dietary analysis only the stomach content is considered most important This
analysis is significant for the study of predation competitions trophic level and food web
in the ecosystem (Anderson 2000 Tan 2004 Luna et al 2008) Furthermore without the
knowledge of dietary relationships among organism community structure and population
interaction are difficult to assume (Layman amp Silliman 2002)
During the feeding activity one should consider the percentage of empty stomach
in a sample as well as composition and state of digestion of each prey in each fish gut at
each sampling since feeding activity is controlled by environments behavior and
physiology There are three methods of gut content analysis which are numerical
volumetric and gravimetric analysis However the suitable methods depends on the study
and food type to be analyzed (Windwell et al 1978 Tan 2004 Hasnidah 2005)
7
CHAPTER III
30 Materials and Methods
31 Study Area
This study was carried out at Nanga Merit Kapit Sarawak (Fig 31) Study areas
covers nine stations namely station 1 (Sg Sebulut) station 2 (Sg Seririt) station 3 (Sg
Beluti) station 4 (Sg Temulan) station 5 (Sg Merit- upper area) station 6 (Sg Meritshy
middle area) station 7 (Sg Merit- lower area) station 8 (Sg Rajang-east part) and station
9 (Sg Rajang- west part) (Fig 1)
32 Fish sampling
Fishes were collected using cast net with stretched mesh size of I5cm 2m long In
several stations gill net with stretched mesh of 15cm was used All species were
identified follow those from Mohsin and Ambak (1983) Robert (1989) Inger and Chin
(1990) and Kottelat et ai (1993) Photograph of each species was taken for record The
total length (em) standard length (cm) was measured using measuring board and the wet
weight (gram) was measured using weighting scale and recorded accordingly The
specimens were preserved in 10 formalin in the field and later replaced with 70
ethanol after two weeks in the laboratory
Fish gut was dissected from each species after identification accomplished The
guts were pre-mixed into 10 formalin and then the contents were completely emptied
into labeled Petri dish containing 70 ethanol AU species were identified follows those
Kot clat et ai (1993) Data analysis of biological indices such as Shannon-Weiner
8
Diversity Index (H) Margalef Richness Index (D) and Pielou Similarity Index (J) were
used
N
T
Figure 1 Locations of the sampling sites involved in this study
Keys
1- Sungai Sebulut 4- Sungai Temulan 7- Sungai Merit (lower)
2- Sungai Seririt 5- Sungai Merit (upper) 8- Sungai Rajang (east part)
- Sungai Beluti 6- Sungai Merit (middle) 9- Sungai Rajang (west part)
9
~LIlDOlratlory analysis
331Fish diet analysis
Based on the results of gut content analysis the diet of freshwater fish species at
The preserved gut was washed with tap water and was then cut open and the entire
contents were removed and were placed on the Petri dish The gut contents of each
were analyzed under the compound microscope Identification of the gut
IfllllOUIiJ Was made based on the morphology characteristics of each organism The number
item in the contents will be counted in a grid Petri dish Items were identified to the
taxonomic level and unidentified food materials were counted as unidentified The
iIIIliticatl()o of the gut contents will be made based on Sze (1993) and Pechenik (2000)
332Gut content analysis
The guts were dissected and the contents were examined under compound
OS(ope The following categories of contents are considered fish insects (both
and terrestrial) zooplankton microbenthos macrophytes filamentous algae
and planktonic) other phytoplankton and pollen and seeds
Analysis of gut using dissection was conducted using a sharp and fine dissecting
for the incision Once the intact gut has been dissected it was place on a clean
rosco~1e slide The gut contents were tease from the gut or foregut with a fine
_lCtiIltg pin or fine forceps and disperse in slide It was placed a cover slip over the
pressed gently to spread the gut material and then dry the slide on a slide
10
warmer The gut contents was examine and identified its components as accurately as
possible
To measure the gut contents of the gut and to estimate the frequency of occurrence
in the stomach numerical (quantitative) method will be used The diet analysis will be
analyzed on their Food Composition (Cn) and Frequency of Occurrence (F) (Hyslop 1980
Tan 2004 Hasnidah 2005)
Frequency of Occurrence
To estimate the proportion of the population that feed on the particular food items
F =(AlB) x 100
Where
A =Number of guts containing a particular food item
B =Total number of guts being analyzed
Food Composition
The comparison of numerical percentage in the types of food inside the guts and the
potential of food taken by fishes will give the information about the food selection
Cn =(CD) x 100
Where
C = Number of food items of a given type in all specimens
D =Total number of all food items that are found in all specimens
11
34 Data analysis for Fish Composition
To analyze the fish composition analysis of biological indices such as Shannon-Weiner
Diversity Index (H) Margalef Richness Index (D) and Pielou Similarity Index (J) will be
used as follows
Shannon and Weiner Diversity Index (H) ( Shannon and Weaver 1963)
H =-Ipi In pi
Where
pi = NilN (Ni = Total number of individuals of species i)
N = total number of individuals of all species
Margalef Richness Index (D) (Margalef 1968)
D= S-1I10g N
where
S = total number of species
N =total number of individuals of all species
Pielou Similarity Index (J) (Pielou 1966)
J= HI In S
Where
H = diversity index
S =total number of species
12
CHAPTER IV
40 RESULT AND DISCUSSION
41 Fish Assemblages
A total of 106 individua1s from fifteen species belonging to 5 families and 11 genus
namely Bagridae Cyprinidae Mastacembelidae Pangasidae and Siluridae were caught
during this project
bull Bagridae
bull Cyprinidae
Mastacembelidae
bull Pangasidae
Siluridae
Figure 2 Percentage of freshwater fish based on family obtained during this project
Family Cyprinidae (604) are the dominant family inhabiting Nanga Merit
followed by family Siluridae (226) Bagridae (151 ) Mastacembelidae (09) and
Pangasidae (09) (Fig 2) This finding is supported by Nyanti et al (1995) where they
reported approximately 66 fish caught were family Cyprinidae in Batang Rajang This
si ti n was also in accordance with Ismail (1994) who stated that the freshwater habitat
of Southeast Asia was dominated by cyprinid fish Similar results were obtained by
13
Khairul Adha et al (2009) where they reported that Batang Kerang was dominated by
Cyprinidae Approximately 33 of freshwater fish in the Western Borneo mostly are
dominated by Cyprinidae (Robert 1989)
The species belonging to family Cyprinidae found in all stations except Station 9
The absence of fish from family Cyprinidae in Station 9 is probably due to the technical
error during fish sampling The dominant genera in terms of total number of individuals
caught were represented by Cyclocheichthys (236) Rasbora (142) and Barbodes
(1 23) Nyanti et al (1999) documented genera Nematabramis and Tor representing
324 and 168 respectively as the dominant genera in Kelabit Highland This contrast
findings found between these two studies may be due to the sampling period This study
was conducted their samplings during dry season whereas Nyanti et al (1999) conducted
during raining season
In this study Nematabramis borneesis was found only in Station 1 with only two
individual In contrast with study done by Nyanti et at (1999) recorded a total of 168
individuals of Nematabramis borneesis in Kelabit Highland Station 8 has the highest
number of species with eight individual recorded whereas Station 2 4 and 5 recorded the
lowest nwnber of species with only one individuals (Table 1)
The abundance of Rasbora is coherent with the characteristics of the stations
Rasbora argyrotaemia has been found only in clear water over gravel bottom in North
Borneo (Inger amp Chin 1990) This species live in a moderate to fast flowing streams with
sandy bottoms and fast flowing rivers with gravel and rocky susbtrate (Kottelat et at
1993 Rachmatika2005) Furthermore the habitat is characterized by heavy vegetation
middotch most likely serves as a nursery grounds Sipin (2004) had carried out a study on
14
diversity of fish in Sungai Kesit Batang Lemanak Sarawak and he also recorded Rasbora
as the dominant genus
Kryptopterus limpok was found in Station 7 which recorded a total of 22
individuals compared to other stations (Table 1) Family Bagridae and Siluridae were
found at Station 7 8 and 9 which represent Sungai Merit (lower part) Sungai Rajang (east
part) and Sungai Rajang (west part) Atirah (2010) recorded to have 349ftu for turbidity
and 506 for pH water in Station 7 Khairul Adha et al (2009) reported that Bagridae and
Siluridae have the ability to adapt in water with low dissolved oxygen levels and high
acidic water Atack (2006) added that Bagridae live in downstream to the tidal brackish
waters oflarger rivers
Mastacembelidae keithi was found only at Station 8 that comprises an area of fast
flowing turbid water and muddy bottom Inger and Chin (1990) recorded that most
individuals of this species were caught over silty bottom sand gravel and rock In
addition Martin-Smith and Tan (1998) documented that at Danum Valley Eastern of
Sabah has fewer individuals of this species in which it was never abundant and only few
individuals found in leaf banks or under log debris or log During dry season some of this
species burrow into the bottom mud (Graham 1997 Berra 2001)
The distribution of fish is also influence by the biological factors of the aquatic
environment namely the availability of food items (Khairul Adha et al2009 Cyprino et
al2008 Moyle et al 2000)
The number of catch in this study was low comparing to other studies for example
Khairul Adha et al (2009) documented a total of 234 individuals were caught in Batang
g and Nyanti et al (1999) reported a total of 521 individuals were caught in Kelabit
Highland in Sarawak This may due to the effect of poisoning and low water level during
15
food supply The study on diet and feeding habit is necessary for understanding the
strategy of digestion and the digestive strategy of fish can truly reflects its food habit in
terms of resource utilization (Chakrabarti et al 1995) Other than that the diet analysis
also important for the studies of predation competition trophic level and food web
Nanga Merit is situated in Sarawak Malaysia Its geographical coordinates are 2deg
IT O North 113 deg8 0 East It is located at Kapit division and the people in the area have
been bearing their daily routines with wet padi cultivation Fisheries activities in Nanga
Merit area are carried out in small scale basis either to generate extra income or for
domestic consumption
There are several studies on freshwater fish in Sarawak for example Nyanti et al
(1 999) Lee (2004) Sipin (2005) Atack (2006) and Khairul Adha et al (2009) However
there is no proper documentation on freshwater fish in Nanga Merit Therefore this study
aims to identify the diversity of freshwater fish at Nanga Merit area In addition this study
also aims to detennine feeding behaviors of freshwater fish caught in Nanga Merit Data
obtained in this study will serve as baseline data of freshwater fish in Sarawak
2
CHAPTER II
20 Literature Review
21Freshwater fish composition
211 Freshwater fish composition in Peninsular Malaysia
Mohsin and Ambak (1983) divided Peninsular Malaysia into three main divisions
in based from the view of fish geography and their distribution North-West division
North-East and Central division and Southern division The North-West division has the
least number of fish species compared to the other two divisions due to paddy cultivation
and few rivers have dried up
The largest among the three divisions is North-East and Central division and is
bound by Kedah-Singgora north Rompin to Pahang in the south There are many manshy
made lakes and only one natural lake in Malaysia which is Tasik Chini There are a few
scattered freshwater swamp such as Tasek Bendera In consequence of the many water
bodies present in this divisions it is expected to have greatest abundance of fish fauna
Southern division is mostly dominated by Rasbora spp and the rivers in this division are
slow moving (Mohsin amp Ambak 1983)
According to Mohsin and Ambak (1983) rivers can be divided into zones upper
middle and lower zone The upper zone has a high current velocity high concentration a
sandy bed and a small volume of water carrying The fish fauna commonly found in this
zone are Rasbora sumatrana R elegans Puntius binotatus Luciosoma setigerum and
omaloptera orthogoniata The middle zone has the most fish fauna The lower zone is
the most polluted zone with very high silt loads and its flow rate is influenced by tides
3
212 Freshwater fish composition in Sarawak
Borneo is one of the most diversity areas of the world with many species being
endemic which is found only at a precise location either to the island or to the region
(Atack 2006) The distribution of fishes on Borneo offers a clue to distinguish old and
new elements of fish occurring in the Sunda area (Taki 1975) Atack (2006) stated that
Sarawak of254 freshwater fishes Sarawak River is complex therefore it supports a mix of
freshwater and estuarine species but mostly consists of freshwater species around
Kampung Paroh area
Sarawak River is relatively large river with two tributaries that run through the Bau
limestone region which are Sarawak Kiri and Sarawak Kanan The Kuching Barrage
functions as to control the Sarawak River maintaining a stable water level at the
waterfront and preventing saltwater contamination to water supply by changes of salinity
daily due to flushing of large influx of saltwater This periodic flushing will lead to a
mixed population of freshwater and saltwater fish species upstream of the Barrage (Atack
2006)
According to Nyanti et at (1999) Tor spp would seek shelter in tributaries which
have clear water and relatively low current velocity Sarawaks inland fisheries include a
number of highly valued species such as the cyprinid family locally known as Empurau
and Semah Species other than carp such as Tapah (Wallago sp) and herring locally
known as Terubok (Tenualosa sp) found to have commercial values to the local
community Tor tambroides (Empurau) is a large herbivorous carp that can be found in
clear rocky streams in the upland forest It was once found in most Sarawaks major river
su as Rejang Baram Limbang and the Ai These species are threatened by activities
such as overfishing and habitat degradation (Atack 2006)
4
Pusat Khidmat Maldumat Akademik UNIVERSITI MALAYSIA SABAWAK
22 Feeding Behaviour of Fish
The study of feeding ecology is a essential tool to understand fish roles within their
ecosystems (Hajisamaea et ai 2003) In the same time study of the food and feeding
behavior of freshwater fish is a matter of continuous research since it the basis for
development of a successful fisheries management programme on fish capture and culture
From its food a fish must obtain both macro- and micronutrients (Halver 1989) The range
of potential foods that are available reflects the physical environment The range taken by
a species depends on its ability to detect acquire and process the food (Wootton 1992)
Habitat type is also a significant aspect which influences the feeding approach of a species
by determining foraging opportunities Fishes tend to prefer habitat which has less prey
and capturing of abundant food (Hajisamaea et ai 2003)
Mohsin and Ambak (1983) classified fishes into three main categories which are
herbivore carnivore and omnivore Most of the Malaysia fishes are omnivorous Puntius
gonnionotus Mystus nemurus M villatus Clarias spp Tor tambroides and Chonerhinus
modestus are some of the example The second largest group of fishes is carnivorous that
feed on other animals such as benthic organisms invertebrates crustaceans other fishes
followed by herbivores which eats aquatic plants small or big algae fruits and vegetation
that have dropped into the water (Atack 2006) Many species of fish that live in the
surface waters of the sea feed on plankton which is both zooplankton and phytoplankton
and it can be describe as p1anktivores (Atack 2006)
Based on detail analysis of gut contents it can be concluded that terrestrial insects
and plants are among the majority of food types eaten by freshwater fish in Peninsular
Malaysia (Mohsin amp Ambak 1983) Data on different food items consumed by fish may
e rually result in identification of stable food preference and in creation of trophic
5
models as a tool to understand complex ecosystems (Lopez-Peralta et at 2002 Bachok et
at 2004)
Fish feeding activity is controlled by environments behavior and physiology Fish
diets varies according to area prey availability season time of day and fish size Bhuiyan
et ai (2006) states that the utilization of food and rate of digestion is also influence by the
quality and quantity of available food organisms In general most of a fishs diet consists
ofbenthic invertebrates often supplemented by terrestrial invertebrates
Studies on natural feeding of fish permit to identify the trophic feeding
composition structure and stability of food webs relationships present in aquatic
ecosystems identifying In the same time the study of food and feeding habits of
freshwater fish species is a subject of continuous research because it constituted the basis
for the development of a successful fisheries management program on fish capture and
culture (Oronsaye et ai 2005) Studies on diet composition are important in community
ecology because the use of resources by organisms has a major influence on population
interactions within a community (Mequilla 2007)
24 Fish dietary analysis
Through the examination of the gut content analysis the feeding behavior of
freshwater fishes can be determined The analyses were limited to food items found in the
gut and esophagus to increase the possibility that the food item had been eaten recently and
in the habitat where the fish were caught (Wennhage et aI 2002 Tan 2004 Hasnidah
2005) Most studies of the feeding ecology of teleost fish in their natural habitats have
6
emphasized the temporal and systematic aspects of a particular species (Hofer amp Schiemer
198 1 )
For dietary analysis only the stomach content is considered most important This
analysis is significant for the study of predation competitions trophic level and food web
in the ecosystem (Anderson 2000 Tan 2004 Luna et al 2008) Furthermore without the
knowledge of dietary relationships among organism community structure and population
interaction are difficult to assume (Layman amp Silliman 2002)
During the feeding activity one should consider the percentage of empty stomach
in a sample as well as composition and state of digestion of each prey in each fish gut at
each sampling since feeding activity is controlled by environments behavior and
physiology There are three methods of gut content analysis which are numerical
volumetric and gravimetric analysis However the suitable methods depends on the study
and food type to be analyzed (Windwell et al 1978 Tan 2004 Hasnidah 2005)
7
CHAPTER III
30 Materials and Methods
31 Study Area
This study was carried out at Nanga Merit Kapit Sarawak (Fig 31) Study areas
covers nine stations namely station 1 (Sg Sebulut) station 2 (Sg Seririt) station 3 (Sg
Beluti) station 4 (Sg Temulan) station 5 (Sg Merit- upper area) station 6 (Sg Meritshy
middle area) station 7 (Sg Merit- lower area) station 8 (Sg Rajang-east part) and station
9 (Sg Rajang- west part) (Fig 1)
32 Fish sampling
Fishes were collected using cast net with stretched mesh size of I5cm 2m long In
several stations gill net with stretched mesh of 15cm was used All species were
identified follow those from Mohsin and Ambak (1983) Robert (1989) Inger and Chin
(1990) and Kottelat et ai (1993) Photograph of each species was taken for record The
total length (em) standard length (cm) was measured using measuring board and the wet
weight (gram) was measured using weighting scale and recorded accordingly The
specimens were preserved in 10 formalin in the field and later replaced with 70
ethanol after two weeks in the laboratory
Fish gut was dissected from each species after identification accomplished The
guts were pre-mixed into 10 formalin and then the contents were completely emptied
into labeled Petri dish containing 70 ethanol AU species were identified follows those
Kot clat et ai (1993) Data analysis of biological indices such as Shannon-Weiner
8
Diversity Index (H) Margalef Richness Index (D) and Pielou Similarity Index (J) were
used
N
T
Figure 1 Locations of the sampling sites involved in this study
Keys
1- Sungai Sebulut 4- Sungai Temulan 7- Sungai Merit (lower)
2- Sungai Seririt 5- Sungai Merit (upper) 8- Sungai Rajang (east part)
- Sungai Beluti 6- Sungai Merit (middle) 9- Sungai Rajang (west part)
9
~LIlDOlratlory analysis
331Fish diet analysis
Based on the results of gut content analysis the diet of freshwater fish species at
The preserved gut was washed with tap water and was then cut open and the entire
contents were removed and were placed on the Petri dish The gut contents of each
were analyzed under the compound microscope Identification of the gut
IfllllOUIiJ Was made based on the morphology characteristics of each organism The number
item in the contents will be counted in a grid Petri dish Items were identified to the
taxonomic level and unidentified food materials were counted as unidentified The
iIIIliticatl()o of the gut contents will be made based on Sze (1993) and Pechenik (2000)
332Gut content analysis
The guts were dissected and the contents were examined under compound
OS(ope The following categories of contents are considered fish insects (both
and terrestrial) zooplankton microbenthos macrophytes filamentous algae
and planktonic) other phytoplankton and pollen and seeds
Analysis of gut using dissection was conducted using a sharp and fine dissecting
for the incision Once the intact gut has been dissected it was place on a clean
rosco~1e slide The gut contents were tease from the gut or foregut with a fine
_lCtiIltg pin or fine forceps and disperse in slide It was placed a cover slip over the
pressed gently to spread the gut material and then dry the slide on a slide
10
warmer The gut contents was examine and identified its components as accurately as
possible
To measure the gut contents of the gut and to estimate the frequency of occurrence
in the stomach numerical (quantitative) method will be used The diet analysis will be
analyzed on their Food Composition (Cn) and Frequency of Occurrence (F) (Hyslop 1980
Tan 2004 Hasnidah 2005)
Frequency of Occurrence
To estimate the proportion of the population that feed on the particular food items
F =(AlB) x 100
Where
A =Number of guts containing a particular food item
B =Total number of guts being analyzed
Food Composition
The comparison of numerical percentage in the types of food inside the guts and the
potential of food taken by fishes will give the information about the food selection
Cn =(CD) x 100
Where
C = Number of food items of a given type in all specimens
D =Total number of all food items that are found in all specimens
11
34 Data analysis for Fish Composition
To analyze the fish composition analysis of biological indices such as Shannon-Weiner
Diversity Index (H) Margalef Richness Index (D) and Pielou Similarity Index (J) will be
used as follows
Shannon and Weiner Diversity Index (H) ( Shannon and Weaver 1963)
H =-Ipi In pi
Where
pi = NilN (Ni = Total number of individuals of species i)
N = total number of individuals of all species
Margalef Richness Index (D) (Margalef 1968)
D= S-1I10g N
where
S = total number of species
N =total number of individuals of all species
Pielou Similarity Index (J) (Pielou 1966)
J= HI In S
Where
H = diversity index
S =total number of species
12
CHAPTER IV
40 RESULT AND DISCUSSION
41 Fish Assemblages
A total of 106 individua1s from fifteen species belonging to 5 families and 11 genus
namely Bagridae Cyprinidae Mastacembelidae Pangasidae and Siluridae were caught
during this project
bull Bagridae
bull Cyprinidae
Mastacembelidae
bull Pangasidae
Siluridae
Figure 2 Percentage of freshwater fish based on family obtained during this project
Family Cyprinidae (604) are the dominant family inhabiting Nanga Merit
followed by family Siluridae (226) Bagridae (151 ) Mastacembelidae (09) and
Pangasidae (09) (Fig 2) This finding is supported by Nyanti et al (1995) where they
reported approximately 66 fish caught were family Cyprinidae in Batang Rajang This
si ti n was also in accordance with Ismail (1994) who stated that the freshwater habitat
of Southeast Asia was dominated by cyprinid fish Similar results were obtained by
13
Khairul Adha et al (2009) where they reported that Batang Kerang was dominated by
Cyprinidae Approximately 33 of freshwater fish in the Western Borneo mostly are
dominated by Cyprinidae (Robert 1989)
The species belonging to family Cyprinidae found in all stations except Station 9
The absence of fish from family Cyprinidae in Station 9 is probably due to the technical
error during fish sampling The dominant genera in terms of total number of individuals
caught were represented by Cyclocheichthys (236) Rasbora (142) and Barbodes
(1 23) Nyanti et al (1999) documented genera Nematabramis and Tor representing
324 and 168 respectively as the dominant genera in Kelabit Highland This contrast
findings found between these two studies may be due to the sampling period This study
was conducted their samplings during dry season whereas Nyanti et al (1999) conducted
during raining season
In this study Nematabramis borneesis was found only in Station 1 with only two
individual In contrast with study done by Nyanti et at (1999) recorded a total of 168
individuals of Nematabramis borneesis in Kelabit Highland Station 8 has the highest
number of species with eight individual recorded whereas Station 2 4 and 5 recorded the
lowest nwnber of species with only one individuals (Table 1)
The abundance of Rasbora is coherent with the characteristics of the stations
Rasbora argyrotaemia has been found only in clear water over gravel bottom in North
Borneo (Inger amp Chin 1990) This species live in a moderate to fast flowing streams with
sandy bottoms and fast flowing rivers with gravel and rocky susbtrate (Kottelat et at
1993 Rachmatika2005) Furthermore the habitat is characterized by heavy vegetation
middotch most likely serves as a nursery grounds Sipin (2004) had carried out a study on
14
diversity of fish in Sungai Kesit Batang Lemanak Sarawak and he also recorded Rasbora
as the dominant genus
Kryptopterus limpok was found in Station 7 which recorded a total of 22
individuals compared to other stations (Table 1) Family Bagridae and Siluridae were
found at Station 7 8 and 9 which represent Sungai Merit (lower part) Sungai Rajang (east
part) and Sungai Rajang (west part) Atirah (2010) recorded to have 349ftu for turbidity
and 506 for pH water in Station 7 Khairul Adha et al (2009) reported that Bagridae and
Siluridae have the ability to adapt in water with low dissolved oxygen levels and high
acidic water Atack (2006) added that Bagridae live in downstream to the tidal brackish
waters oflarger rivers
Mastacembelidae keithi was found only at Station 8 that comprises an area of fast
flowing turbid water and muddy bottom Inger and Chin (1990) recorded that most
individuals of this species were caught over silty bottom sand gravel and rock In
addition Martin-Smith and Tan (1998) documented that at Danum Valley Eastern of
Sabah has fewer individuals of this species in which it was never abundant and only few
individuals found in leaf banks or under log debris or log During dry season some of this
species burrow into the bottom mud (Graham 1997 Berra 2001)
The distribution of fish is also influence by the biological factors of the aquatic
environment namely the availability of food items (Khairul Adha et al2009 Cyprino et
al2008 Moyle et al 2000)
The number of catch in this study was low comparing to other studies for example
Khairul Adha et al (2009) documented a total of 234 individuals were caught in Batang
g and Nyanti et al (1999) reported a total of 521 individuals were caught in Kelabit
Highland in Sarawak This may due to the effect of poisoning and low water level during
15
CHAPTER II
20 Literature Review
21Freshwater fish composition
211 Freshwater fish composition in Peninsular Malaysia
Mohsin and Ambak (1983) divided Peninsular Malaysia into three main divisions
in based from the view of fish geography and their distribution North-West division
North-East and Central division and Southern division The North-West division has the
least number of fish species compared to the other two divisions due to paddy cultivation
and few rivers have dried up
The largest among the three divisions is North-East and Central division and is
bound by Kedah-Singgora north Rompin to Pahang in the south There are many manshy
made lakes and only one natural lake in Malaysia which is Tasik Chini There are a few
scattered freshwater swamp such as Tasek Bendera In consequence of the many water
bodies present in this divisions it is expected to have greatest abundance of fish fauna
Southern division is mostly dominated by Rasbora spp and the rivers in this division are
slow moving (Mohsin amp Ambak 1983)
According to Mohsin and Ambak (1983) rivers can be divided into zones upper
middle and lower zone The upper zone has a high current velocity high concentration a
sandy bed and a small volume of water carrying The fish fauna commonly found in this
zone are Rasbora sumatrana R elegans Puntius binotatus Luciosoma setigerum and
omaloptera orthogoniata The middle zone has the most fish fauna The lower zone is
the most polluted zone with very high silt loads and its flow rate is influenced by tides
3
212 Freshwater fish composition in Sarawak
Borneo is one of the most diversity areas of the world with many species being
endemic which is found only at a precise location either to the island or to the region
(Atack 2006) The distribution of fishes on Borneo offers a clue to distinguish old and
new elements of fish occurring in the Sunda area (Taki 1975) Atack (2006) stated that
Sarawak of254 freshwater fishes Sarawak River is complex therefore it supports a mix of
freshwater and estuarine species but mostly consists of freshwater species around
Kampung Paroh area
Sarawak River is relatively large river with two tributaries that run through the Bau
limestone region which are Sarawak Kiri and Sarawak Kanan The Kuching Barrage
functions as to control the Sarawak River maintaining a stable water level at the
waterfront and preventing saltwater contamination to water supply by changes of salinity
daily due to flushing of large influx of saltwater This periodic flushing will lead to a
mixed population of freshwater and saltwater fish species upstream of the Barrage (Atack
2006)
According to Nyanti et at (1999) Tor spp would seek shelter in tributaries which
have clear water and relatively low current velocity Sarawaks inland fisheries include a
number of highly valued species such as the cyprinid family locally known as Empurau
and Semah Species other than carp such as Tapah (Wallago sp) and herring locally
known as Terubok (Tenualosa sp) found to have commercial values to the local
community Tor tambroides (Empurau) is a large herbivorous carp that can be found in
clear rocky streams in the upland forest It was once found in most Sarawaks major river
su as Rejang Baram Limbang and the Ai These species are threatened by activities
such as overfishing and habitat degradation (Atack 2006)
4
Pusat Khidmat Maldumat Akademik UNIVERSITI MALAYSIA SABAWAK
22 Feeding Behaviour of Fish
The study of feeding ecology is a essential tool to understand fish roles within their
ecosystems (Hajisamaea et ai 2003) In the same time study of the food and feeding
behavior of freshwater fish is a matter of continuous research since it the basis for
development of a successful fisheries management programme on fish capture and culture
From its food a fish must obtain both macro- and micronutrients (Halver 1989) The range
of potential foods that are available reflects the physical environment The range taken by
a species depends on its ability to detect acquire and process the food (Wootton 1992)
Habitat type is also a significant aspect which influences the feeding approach of a species
by determining foraging opportunities Fishes tend to prefer habitat which has less prey
and capturing of abundant food (Hajisamaea et ai 2003)
Mohsin and Ambak (1983) classified fishes into three main categories which are
herbivore carnivore and omnivore Most of the Malaysia fishes are omnivorous Puntius
gonnionotus Mystus nemurus M villatus Clarias spp Tor tambroides and Chonerhinus
modestus are some of the example The second largest group of fishes is carnivorous that
feed on other animals such as benthic organisms invertebrates crustaceans other fishes
followed by herbivores which eats aquatic plants small or big algae fruits and vegetation
that have dropped into the water (Atack 2006) Many species of fish that live in the
surface waters of the sea feed on plankton which is both zooplankton and phytoplankton
and it can be describe as p1anktivores (Atack 2006)
Based on detail analysis of gut contents it can be concluded that terrestrial insects
and plants are among the majority of food types eaten by freshwater fish in Peninsular
Malaysia (Mohsin amp Ambak 1983) Data on different food items consumed by fish may
e rually result in identification of stable food preference and in creation of trophic
5
models as a tool to understand complex ecosystems (Lopez-Peralta et at 2002 Bachok et
at 2004)
Fish feeding activity is controlled by environments behavior and physiology Fish
diets varies according to area prey availability season time of day and fish size Bhuiyan
et ai (2006) states that the utilization of food and rate of digestion is also influence by the
quality and quantity of available food organisms In general most of a fishs diet consists
ofbenthic invertebrates often supplemented by terrestrial invertebrates
Studies on natural feeding of fish permit to identify the trophic feeding
composition structure and stability of food webs relationships present in aquatic
ecosystems identifying In the same time the study of food and feeding habits of
freshwater fish species is a subject of continuous research because it constituted the basis
for the development of a successful fisheries management program on fish capture and
culture (Oronsaye et ai 2005) Studies on diet composition are important in community
ecology because the use of resources by organisms has a major influence on population
interactions within a community (Mequilla 2007)
24 Fish dietary analysis
Through the examination of the gut content analysis the feeding behavior of
freshwater fishes can be determined The analyses were limited to food items found in the
gut and esophagus to increase the possibility that the food item had been eaten recently and
in the habitat where the fish were caught (Wennhage et aI 2002 Tan 2004 Hasnidah
2005) Most studies of the feeding ecology of teleost fish in their natural habitats have
6
emphasized the temporal and systematic aspects of a particular species (Hofer amp Schiemer
198 1 )
For dietary analysis only the stomach content is considered most important This
analysis is significant for the study of predation competitions trophic level and food web
in the ecosystem (Anderson 2000 Tan 2004 Luna et al 2008) Furthermore without the
knowledge of dietary relationships among organism community structure and population
interaction are difficult to assume (Layman amp Silliman 2002)
During the feeding activity one should consider the percentage of empty stomach
in a sample as well as composition and state of digestion of each prey in each fish gut at
each sampling since feeding activity is controlled by environments behavior and
physiology There are three methods of gut content analysis which are numerical
volumetric and gravimetric analysis However the suitable methods depends on the study
and food type to be analyzed (Windwell et al 1978 Tan 2004 Hasnidah 2005)
7
CHAPTER III
30 Materials and Methods
31 Study Area
This study was carried out at Nanga Merit Kapit Sarawak (Fig 31) Study areas
covers nine stations namely station 1 (Sg Sebulut) station 2 (Sg Seririt) station 3 (Sg
Beluti) station 4 (Sg Temulan) station 5 (Sg Merit- upper area) station 6 (Sg Meritshy
middle area) station 7 (Sg Merit- lower area) station 8 (Sg Rajang-east part) and station
9 (Sg Rajang- west part) (Fig 1)
32 Fish sampling
Fishes were collected using cast net with stretched mesh size of I5cm 2m long In
several stations gill net with stretched mesh of 15cm was used All species were
identified follow those from Mohsin and Ambak (1983) Robert (1989) Inger and Chin
(1990) and Kottelat et ai (1993) Photograph of each species was taken for record The
total length (em) standard length (cm) was measured using measuring board and the wet
weight (gram) was measured using weighting scale and recorded accordingly The
specimens were preserved in 10 formalin in the field and later replaced with 70
ethanol after two weeks in the laboratory
Fish gut was dissected from each species after identification accomplished The
guts were pre-mixed into 10 formalin and then the contents were completely emptied
into labeled Petri dish containing 70 ethanol AU species were identified follows those
Kot clat et ai (1993) Data analysis of biological indices such as Shannon-Weiner
8
Diversity Index (H) Margalef Richness Index (D) and Pielou Similarity Index (J) were
used
N
T
Figure 1 Locations of the sampling sites involved in this study
Keys
1- Sungai Sebulut 4- Sungai Temulan 7- Sungai Merit (lower)
2- Sungai Seririt 5- Sungai Merit (upper) 8- Sungai Rajang (east part)
- Sungai Beluti 6- Sungai Merit (middle) 9- Sungai Rajang (west part)
9
~LIlDOlratlory analysis
331Fish diet analysis
Based on the results of gut content analysis the diet of freshwater fish species at
The preserved gut was washed with tap water and was then cut open and the entire
contents were removed and were placed on the Petri dish The gut contents of each
were analyzed under the compound microscope Identification of the gut
IfllllOUIiJ Was made based on the morphology characteristics of each organism The number
item in the contents will be counted in a grid Petri dish Items were identified to the
taxonomic level and unidentified food materials were counted as unidentified The
iIIIliticatl()o of the gut contents will be made based on Sze (1993) and Pechenik (2000)
332Gut content analysis
The guts were dissected and the contents were examined under compound
OS(ope The following categories of contents are considered fish insects (both
and terrestrial) zooplankton microbenthos macrophytes filamentous algae
and planktonic) other phytoplankton and pollen and seeds
Analysis of gut using dissection was conducted using a sharp and fine dissecting
for the incision Once the intact gut has been dissected it was place on a clean
rosco~1e slide The gut contents were tease from the gut or foregut with a fine
_lCtiIltg pin or fine forceps and disperse in slide It was placed a cover slip over the
pressed gently to spread the gut material and then dry the slide on a slide
10
warmer The gut contents was examine and identified its components as accurately as
possible
To measure the gut contents of the gut and to estimate the frequency of occurrence
in the stomach numerical (quantitative) method will be used The diet analysis will be
analyzed on their Food Composition (Cn) and Frequency of Occurrence (F) (Hyslop 1980
Tan 2004 Hasnidah 2005)
Frequency of Occurrence
To estimate the proportion of the population that feed on the particular food items
F =(AlB) x 100
Where
A =Number of guts containing a particular food item
B =Total number of guts being analyzed
Food Composition
The comparison of numerical percentage in the types of food inside the guts and the
potential of food taken by fishes will give the information about the food selection
Cn =(CD) x 100
Where
C = Number of food items of a given type in all specimens
D =Total number of all food items that are found in all specimens
11
34 Data analysis for Fish Composition
To analyze the fish composition analysis of biological indices such as Shannon-Weiner
Diversity Index (H) Margalef Richness Index (D) and Pielou Similarity Index (J) will be
used as follows
Shannon and Weiner Diversity Index (H) ( Shannon and Weaver 1963)
H =-Ipi In pi
Where
pi = NilN (Ni = Total number of individuals of species i)
N = total number of individuals of all species
Margalef Richness Index (D) (Margalef 1968)
D= S-1I10g N
where
S = total number of species
N =total number of individuals of all species
Pielou Similarity Index (J) (Pielou 1966)
J= HI In S
Where
H = diversity index
S =total number of species
12
CHAPTER IV
40 RESULT AND DISCUSSION
41 Fish Assemblages
A total of 106 individua1s from fifteen species belonging to 5 families and 11 genus
namely Bagridae Cyprinidae Mastacembelidae Pangasidae and Siluridae were caught
during this project
bull Bagridae
bull Cyprinidae
Mastacembelidae
bull Pangasidae
Siluridae
Figure 2 Percentage of freshwater fish based on family obtained during this project
Family Cyprinidae (604) are the dominant family inhabiting Nanga Merit
followed by family Siluridae (226) Bagridae (151 ) Mastacembelidae (09) and
Pangasidae (09) (Fig 2) This finding is supported by Nyanti et al (1995) where they
reported approximately 66 fish caught were family Cyprinidae in Batang Rajang This
si ti n was also in accordance with Ismail (1994) who stated that the freshwater habitat
of Southeast Asia was dominated by cyprinid fish Similar results were obtained by
13
Khairul Adha et al (2009) where they reported that Batang Kerang was dominated by
Cyprinidae Approximately 33 of freshwater fish in the Western Borneo mostly are
dominated by Cyprinidae (Robert 1989)
The species belonging to family Cyprinidae found in all stations except Station 9
The absence of fish from family Cyprinidae in Station 9 is probably due to the technical
error during fish sampling The dominant genera in terms of total number of individuals
caught were represented by Cyclocheichthys (236) Rasbora (142) and Barbodes
(1 23) Nyanti et al (1999) documented genera Nematabramis and Tor representing
324 and 168 respectively as the dominant genera in Kelabit Highland This contrast
findings found between these two studies may be due to the sampling period This study
was conducted their samplings during dry season whereas Nyanti et al (1999) conducted
during raining season
In this study Nematabramis borneesis was found only in Station 1 with only two
individual In contrast with study done by Nyanti et at (1999) recorded a total of 168
individuals of Nematabramis borneesis in Kelabit Highland Station 8 has the highest
number of species with eight individual recorded whereas Station 2 4 and 5 recorded the
lowest nwnber of species with only one individuals (Table 1)
The abundance of Rasbora is coherent with the characteristics of the stations
Rasbora argyrotaemia has been found only in clear water over gravel bottom in North
Borneo (Inger amp Chin 1990) This species live in a moderate to fast flowing streams with
sandy bottoms and fast flowing rivers with gravel and rocky susbtrate (Kottelat et at
1993 Rachmatika2005) Furthermore the habitat is characterized by heavy vegetation
middotch most likely serves as a nursery grounds Sipin (2004) had carried out a study on
14
diversity of fish in Sungai Kesit Batang Lemanak Sarawak and he also recorded Rasbora
as the dominant genus
Kryptopterus limpok was found in Station 7 which recorded a total of 22
individuals compared to other stations (Table 1) Family Bagridae and Siluridae were
found at Station 7 8 and 9 which represent Sungai Merit (lower part) Sungai Rajang (east
part) and Sungai Rajang (west part) Atirah (2010) recorded to have 349ftu for turbidity
and 506 for pH water in Station 7 Khairul Adha et al (2009) reported that Bagridae and
Siluridae have the ability to adapt in water with low dissolved oxygen levels and high
acidic water Atack (2006) added that Bagridae live in downstream to the tidal brackish
waters oflarger rivers
Mastacembelidae keithi was found only at Station 8 that comprises an area of fast
flowing turbid water and muddy bottom Inger and Chin (1990) recorded that most
individuals of this species were caught over silty bottom sand gravel and rock In
addition Martin-Smith and Tan (1998) documented that at Danum Valley Eastern of
Sabah has fewer individuals of this species in which it was never abundant and only few
individuals found in leaf banks or under log debris or log During dry season some of this
species burrow into the bottom mud (Graham 1997 Berra 2001)
The distribution of fish is also influence by the biological factors of the aquatic
environment namely the availability of food items (Khairul Adha et al2009 Cyprino et
al2008 Moyle et al 2000)
The number of catch in this study was low comparing to other studies for example
Khairul Adha et al (2009) documented a total of 234 individuals were caught in Batang
g and Nyanti et al (1999) reported a total of 521 individuals were caught in Kelabit
Highland in Sarawak This may due to the effect of poisoning and low water level during
15
212 Freshwater fish composition in Sarawak
Borneo is one of the most diversity areas of the world with many species being
endemic which is found only at a precise location either to the island or to the region
(Atack 2006) The distribution of fishes on Borneo offers a clue to distinguish old and
new elements of fish occurring in the Sunda area (Taki 1975) Atack (2006) stated that
Sarawak of254 freshwater fishes Sarawak River is complex therefore it supports a mix of
freshwater and estuarine species but mostly consists of freshwater species around
Kampung Paroh area
Sarawak River is relatively large river with two tributaries that run through the Bau
limestone region which are Sarawak Kiri and Sarawak Kanan The Kuching Barrage
functions as to control the Sarawak River maintaining a stable water level at the
waterfront and preventing saltwater contamination to water supply by changes of salinity
daily due to flushing of large influx of saltwater This periodic flushing will lead to a
mixed population of freshwater and saltwater fish species upstream of the Barrage (Atack
2006)
According to Nyanti et at (1999) Tor spp would seek shelter in tributaries which
have clear water and relatively low current velocity Sarawaks inland fisheries include a
number of highly valued species such as the cyprinid family locally known as Empurau
and Semah Species other than carp such as Tapah (Wallago sp) and herring locally
known as Terubok (Tenualosa sp) found to have commercial values to the local
community Tor tambroides (Empurau) is a large herbivorous carp that can be found in
clear rocky streams in the upland forest It was once found in most Sarawaks major river
su as Rejang Baram Limbang and the Ai These species are threatened by activities
such as overfishing and habitat degradation (Atack 2006)
4
Pusat Khidmat Maldumat Akademik UNIVERSITI MALAYSIA SABAWAK
22 Feeding Behaviour of Fish
The study of feeding ecology is a essential tool to understand fish roles within their
ecosystems (Hajisamaea et ai 2003) In the same time study of the food and feeding
behavior of freshwater fish is a matter of continuous research since it the basis for
development of a successful fisheries management programme on fish capture and culture
From its food a fish must obtain both macro- and micronutrients (Halver 1989) The range
of potential foods that are available reflects the physical environment The range taken by
a species depends on its ability to detect acquire and process the food (Wootton 1992)
Habitat type is also a significant aspect which influences the feeding approach of a species
by determining foraging opportunities Fishes tend to prefer habitat which has less prey
and capturing of abundant food (Hajisamaea et ai 2003)
Mohsin and Ambak (1983) classified fishes into three main categories which are
herbivore carnivore and omnivore Most of the Malaysia fishes are omnivorous Puntius
gonnionotus Mystus nemurus M villatus Clarias spp Tor tambroides and Chonerhinus
modestus are some of the example The second largest group of fishes is carnivorous that
feed on other animals such as benthic organisms invertebrates crustaceans other fishes
followed by herbivores which eats aquatic plants small or big algae fruits and vegetation
that have dropped into the water (Atack 2006) Many species of fish that live in the
surface waters of the sea feed on plankton which is both zooplankton and phytoplankton
and it can be describe as p1anktivores (Atack 2006)
Based on detail analysis of gut contents it can be concluded that terrestrial insects
and plants are among the majority of food types eaten by freshwater fish in Peninsular
Malaysia (Mohsin amp Ambak 1983) Data on different food items consumed by fish may
e rually result in identification of stable food preference and in creation of trophic
5
models as a tool to understand complex ecosystems (Lopez-Peralta et at 2002 Bachok et
at 2004)
Fish feeding activity is controlled by environments behavior and physiology Fish
diets varies according to area prey availability season time of day and fish size Bhuiyan
et ai (2006) states that the utilization of food and rate of digestion is also influence by the
quality and quantity of available food organisms In general most of a fishs diet consists
ofbenthic invertebrates often supplemented by terrestrial invertebrates
Studies on natural feeding of fish permit to identify the trophic feeding
composition structure and stability of food webs relationships present in aquatic
ecosystems identifying In the same time the study of food and feeding habits of
freshwater fish species is a subject of continuous research because it constituted the basis
for the development of a successful fisheries management program on fish capture and
culture (Oronsaye et ai 2005) Studies on diet composition are important in community
ecology because the use of resources by organisms has a major influence on population
interactions within a community (Mequilla 2007)
24 Fish dietary analysis
Through the examination of the gut content analysis the feeding behavior of
freshwater fishes can be determined The analyses were limited to food items found in the
gut and esophagus to increase the possibility that the food item had been eaten recently and
in the habitat where the fish were caught (Wennhage et aI 2002 Tan 2004 Hasnidah
2005) Most studies of the feeding ecology of teleost fish in their natural habitats have
6
emphasized the temporal and systematic aspects of a particular species (Hofer amp Schiemer
198 1 )
For dietary analysis only the stomach content is considered most important This
analysis is significant for the study of predation competitions trophic level and food web
in the ecosystem (Anderson 2000 Tan 2004 Luna et al 2008) Furthermore without the
knowledge of dietary relationships among organism community structure and population
interaction are difficult to assume (Layman amp Silliman 2002)
During the feeding activity one should consider the percentage of empty stomach
in a sample as well as composition and state of digestion of each prey in each fish gut at
each sampling since feeding activity is controlled by environments behavior and
physiology There are three methods of gut content analysis which are numerical
volumetric and gravimetric analysis However the suitable methods depends on the study
and food type to be analyzed (Windwell et al 1978 Tan 2004 Hasnidah 2005)
7
CHAPTER III
30 Materials and Methods
31 Study Area
This study was carried out at Nanga Merit Kapit Sarawak (Fig 31) Study areas
covers nine stations namely station 1 (Sg Sebulut) station 2 (Sg Seririt) station 3 (Sg
Beluti) station 4 (Sg Temulan) station 5 (Sg Merit- upper area) station 6 (Sg Meritshy
middle area) station 7 (Sg Merit- lower area) station 8 (Sg Rajang-east part) and station
9 (Sg Rajang- west part) (Fig 1)
32 Fish sampling
Fishes were collected using cast net with stretched mesh size of I5cm 2m long In
several stations gill net with stretched mesh of 15cm was used All species were
identified follow those from Mohsin and Ambak (1983) Robert (1989) Inger and Chin
(1990) and Kottelat et ai (1993) Photograph of each species was taken for record The
total length (em) standard length (cm) was measured using measuring board and the wet
weight (gram) was measured using weighting scale and recorded accordingly The
specimens were preserved in 10 formalin in the field and later replaced with 70
ethanol after two weeks in the laboratory
Fish gut was dissected from each species after identification accomplished The
guts were pre-mixed into 10 formalin and then the contents were completely emptied
into labeled Petri dish containing 70 ethanol AU species were identified follows those
Kot clat et ai (1993) Data analysis of biological indices such as Shannon-Weiner
8
Diversity Index (H) Margalef Richness Index (D) and Pielou Similarity Index (J) were
used
N
T
Figure 1 Locations of the sampling sites involved in this study
Keys
1- Sungai Sebulut 4- Sungai Temulan 7- Sungai Merit (lower)
2- Sungai Seririt 5- Sungai Merit (upper) 8- Sungai Rajang (east part)
- Sungai Beluti 6- Sungai Merit (middle) 9- Sungai Rajang (west part)
9
~LIlDOlratlory analysis
331Fish diet analysis
Based on the results of gut content analysis the diet of freshwater fish species at
The preserved gut was washed with tap water and was then cut open and the entire
contents were removed and were placed on the Petri dish The gut contents of each
were analyzed under the compound microscope Identification of the gut
IfllllOUIiJ Was made based on the morphology characteristics of each organism The number
item in the contents will be counted in a grid Petri dish Items were identified to the
taxonomic level and unidentified food materials were counted as unidentified The
iIIIliticatl()o of the gut contents will be made based on Sze (1993) and Pechenik (2000)
332Gut content analysis
The guts were dissected and the contents were examined under compound
OS(ope The following categories of contents are considered fish insects (both
and terrestrial) zooplankton microbenthos macrophytes filamentous algae
and planktonic) other phytoplankton and pollen and seeds
Analysis of gut using dissection was conducted using a sharp and fine dissecting
for the incision Once the intact gut has been dissected it was place on a clean
rosco~1e slide The gut contents were tease from the gut or foregut with a fine
_lCtiIltg pin or fine forceps and disperse in slide It was placed a cover slip over the
pressed gently to spread the gut material and then dry the slide on a slide
10
warmer The gut contents was examine and identified its components as accurately as
possible
To measure the gut contents of the gut and to estimate the frequency of occurrence
in the stomach numerical (quantitative) method will be used The diet analysis will be
analyzed on their Food Composition (Cn) and Frequency of Occurrence (F) (Hyslop 1980
Tan 2004 Hasnidah 2005)
Frequency of Occurrence
To estimate the proportion of the population that feed on the particular food items
F =(AlB) x 100
Where
A =Number of guts containing a particular food item
B =Total number of guts being analyzed
Food Composition
The comparison of numerical percentage in the types of food inside the guts and the
potential of food taken by fishes will give the information about the food selection
Cn =(CD) x 100
Where
C = Number of food items of a given type in all specimens
D =Total number of all food items that are found in all specimens
11
34 Data analysis for Fish Composition
To analyze the fish composition analysis of biological indices such as Shannon-Weiner
Diversity Index (H) Margalef Richness Index (D) and Pielou Similarity Index (J) will be
used as follows
Shannon and Weiner Diversity Index (H) ( Shannon and Weaver 1963)
H =-Ipi In pi
Where
pi = NilN (Ni = Total number of individuals of species i)
N = total number of individuals of all species
Margalef Richness Index (D) (Margalef 1968)
D= S-1I10g N
where
S = total number of species
N =total number of individuals of all species
Pielou Similarity Index (J) (Pielou 1966)
J= HI In S
Where
H = diversity index
S =total number of species
12
CHAPTER IV
40 RESULT AND DISCUSSION
41 Fish Assemblages
A total of 106 individua1s from fifteen species belonging to 5 families and 11 genus
namely Bagridae Cyprinidae Mastacembelidae Pangasidae and Siluridae were caught
during this project
bull Bagridae
bull Cyprinidae
Mastacembelidae
bull Pangasidae
Siluridae
Figure 2 Percentage of freshwater fish based on family obtained during this project
Family Cyprinidae (604) are the dominant family inhabiting Nanga Merit
followed by family Siluridae (226) Bagridae (151 ) Mastacembelidae (09) and
Pangasidae (09) (Fig 2) This finding is supported by Nyanti et al (1995) where they
reported approximately 66 fish caught were family Cyprinidae in Batang Rajang This
si ti n was also in accordance with Ismail (1994) who stated that the freshwater habitat
of Southeast Asia was dominated by cyprinid fish Similar results were obtained by
13
Khairul Adha et al (2009) where they reported that Batang Kerang was dominated by
Cyprinidae Approximately 33 of freshwater fish in the Western Borneo mostly are
dominated by Cyprinidae (Robert 1989)
The species belonging to family Cyprinidae found in all stations except Station 9
The absence of fish from family Cyprinidae in Station 9 is probably due to the technical
error during fish sampling The dominant genera in terms of total number of individuals
caught were represented by Cyclocheichthys (236) Rasbora (142) and Barbodes
(1 23) Nyanti et al (1999) documented genera Nematabramis and Tor representing
324 and 168 respectively as the dominant genera in Kelabit Highland This contrast
findings found between these two studies may be due to the sampling period This study
was conducted their samplings during dry season whereas Nyanti et al (1999) conducted
during raining season
In this study Nematabramis borneesis was found only in Station 1 with only two
individual In contrast with study done by Nyanti et at (1999) recorded a total of 168
individuals of Nematabramis borneesis in Kelabit Highland Station 8 has the highest
number of species with eight individual recorded whereas Station 2 4 and 5 recorded the
lowest nwnber of species with only one individuals (Table 1)
The abundance of Rasbora is coherent with the characteristics of the stations
Rasbora argyrotaemia has been found only in clear water over gravel bottom in North
Borneo (Inger amp Chin 1990) This species live in a moderate to fast flowing streams with
sandy bottoms and fast flowing rivers with gravel and rocky susbtrate (Kottelat et at
1993 Rachmatika2005) Furthermore the habitat is characterized by heavy vegetation
middotch most likely serves as a nursery grounds Sipin (2004) had carried out a study on
14
diversity of fish in Sungai Kesit Batang Lemanak Sarawak and he also recorded Rasbora
as the dominant genus
Kryptopterus limpok was found in Station 7 which recorded a total of 22
individuals compared to other stations (Table 1) Family Bagridae and Siluridae were
found at Station 7 8 and 9 which represent Sungai Merit (lower part) Sungai Rajang (east
part) and Sungai Rajang (west part) Atirah (2010) recorded to have 349ftu for turbidity
and 506 for pH water in Station 7 Khairul Adha et al (2009) reported that Bagridae and
Siluridae have the ability to adapt in water with low dissolved oxygen levels and high
acidic water Atack (2006) added that Bagridae live in downstream to the tidal brackish
waters oflarger rivers
Mastacembelidae keithi was found only at Station 8 that comprises an area of fast
flowing turbid water and muddy bottom Inger and Chin (1990) recorded that most
individuals of this species were caught over silty bottom sand gravel and rock In
addition Martin-Smith and Tan (1998) documented that at Danum Valley Eastern of
Sabah has fewer individuals of this species in which it was never abundant and only few
individuals found in leaf banks or under log debris or log During dry season some of this
species burrow into the bottom mud (Graham 1997 Berra 2001)
The distribution of fish is also influence by the biological factors of the aquatic
environment namely the availability of food items (Khairul Adha et al2009 Cyprino et
al2008 Moyle et al 2000)
The number of catch in this study was low comparing to other studies for example
Khairul Adha et al (2009) documented a total of 234 individuals were caught in Batang
g and Nyanti et al (1999) reported a total of 521 individuals were caught in Kelabit
Highland in Sarawak This may due to the effect of poisoning and low water level during
15
Pusat Khidmat Maldumat Akademik UNIVERSITI MALAYSIA SABAWAK
22 Feeding Behaviour of Fish
The study of feeding ecology is a essential tool to understand fish roles within their
ecosystems (Hajisamaea et ai 2003) In the same time study of the food and feeding
behavior of freshwater fish is a matter of continuous research since it the basis for
development of a successful fisheries management programme on fish capture and culture
From its food a fish must obtain both macro- and micronutrients (Halver 1989) The range
of potential foods that are available reflects the physical environment The range taken by
a species depends on its ability to detect acquire and process the food (Wootton 1992)
Habitat type is also a significant aspect which influences the feeding approach of a species
by determining foraging opportunities Fishes tend to prefer habitat which has less prey
and capturing of abundant food (Hajisamaea et ai 2003)
Mohsin and Ambak (1983) classified fishes into three main categories which are
herbivore carnivore and omnivore Most of the Malaysia fishes are omnivorous Puntius
gonnionotus Mystus nemurus M villatus Clarias spp Tor tambroides and Chonerhinus
modestus are some of the example The second largest group of fishes is carnivorous that
feed on other animals such as benthic organisms invertebrates crustaceans other fishes
followed by herbivores which eats aquatic plants small or big algae fruits and vegetation
that have dropped into the water (Atack 2006) Many species of fish that live in the
surface waters of the sea feed on plankton which is both zooplankton and phytoplankton
and it can be describe as p1anktivores (Atack 2006)
Based on detail analysis of gut contents it can be concluded that terrestrial insects
and plants are among the majority of food types eaten by freshwater fish in Peninsular
Malaysia (Mohsin amp Ambak 1983) Data on different food items consumed by fish may
e rually result in identification of stable food preference and in creation of trophic
5
models as a tool to understand complex ecosystems (Lopez-Peralta et at 2002 Bachok et
at 2004)
Fish feeding activity is controlled by environments behavior and physiology Fish
diets varies according to area prey availability season time of day and fish size Bhuiyan
et ai (2006) states that the utilization of food and rate of digestion is also influence by the
quality and quantity of available food organisms In general most of a fishs diet consists
ofbenthic invertebrates often supplemented by terrestrial invertebrates
Studies on natural feeding of fish permit to identify the trophic feeding
composition structure and stability of food webs relationships present in aquatic
ecosystems identifying In the same time the study of food and feeding habits of
freshwater fish species is a subject of continuous research because it constituted the basis
for the development of a successful fisheries management program on fish capture and
culture (Oronsaye et ai 2005) Studies on diet composition are important in community
ecology because the use of resources by organisms has a major influence on population
interactions within a community (Mequilla 2007)
24 Fish dietary analysis
Through the examination of the gut content analysis the feeding behavior of
freshwater fishes can be determined The analyses were limited to food items found in the
gut and esophagus to increase the possibility that the food item had been eaten recently and
in the habitat where the fish were caught (Wennhage et aI 2002 Tan 2004 Hasnidah
2005) Most studies of the feeding ecology of teleost fish in their natural habitats have
6
emphasized the temporal and systematic aspects of a particular species (Hofer amp Schiemer
198 1 )
For dietary analysis only the stomach content is considered most important This
analysis is significant for the study of predation competitions trophic level and food web
in the ecosystem (Anderson 2000 Tan 2004 Luna et al 2008) Furthermore without the
knowledge of dietary relationships among organism community structure and population
interaction are difficult to assume (Layman amp Silliman 2002)
During the feeding activity one should consider the percentage of empty stomach
in a sample as well as composition and state of digestion of each prey in each fish gut at
each sampling since feeding activity is controlled by environments behavior and
physiology There are three methods of gut content analysis which are numerical
volumetric and gravimetric analysis However the suitable methods depends on the study
and food type to be analyzed (Windwell et al 1978 Tan 2004 Hasnidah 2005)
7
CHAPTER III
30 Materials and Methods
31 Study Area
This study was carried out at Nanga Merit Kapit Sarawak (Fig 31) Study areas
covers nine stations namely station 1 (Sg Sebulut) station 2 (Sg Seririt) station 3 (Sg
Beluti) station 4 (Sg Temulan) station 5 (Sg Merit- upper area) station 6 (Sg Meritshy
middle area) station 7 (Sg Merit- lower area) station 8 (Sg Rajang-east part) and station
9 (Sg Rajang- west part) (Fig 1)
32 Fish sampling
Fishes were collected using cast net with stretched mesh size of I5cm 2m long In
several stations gill net with stretched mesh of 15cm was used All species were
identified follow those from Mohsin and Ambak (1983) Robert (1989) Inger and Chin
(1990) and Kottelat et ai (1993) Photograph of each species was taken for record The
total length (em) standard length (cm) was measured using measuring board and the wet
weight (gram) was measured using weighting scale and recorded accordingly The
specimens were preserved in 10 formalin in the field and later replaced with 70
ethanol after two weeks in the laboratory
Fish gut was dissected from each species after identification accomplished The
guts were pre-mixed into 10 formalin and then the contents were completely emptied
into labeled Petri dish containing 70 ethanol AU species were identified follows those
Kot clat et ai (1993) Data analysis of biological indices such as Shannon-Weiner
8
Diversity Index (H) Margalef Richness Index (D) and Pielou Similarity Index (J) were
used
N
T
Figure 1 Locations of the sampling sites involved in this study
Keys
1- Sungai Sebulut 4- Sungai Temulan 7- Sungai Merit (lower)
2- Sungai Seririt 5- Sungai Merit (upper) 8- Sungai Rajang (east part)
- Sungai Beluti 6- Sungai Merit (middle) 9- Sungai Rajang (west part)
9
~LIlDOlratlory analysis
331Fish diet analysis
Based on the results of gut content analysis the diet of freshwater fish species at
The preserved gut was washed with tap water and was then cut open and the entire
contents were removed and were placed on the Petri dish The gut contents of each
were analyzed under the compound microscope Identification of the gut
IfllllOUIiJ Was made based on the morphology characteristics of each organism The number
item in the contents will be counted in a grid Petri dish Items were identified to the
taxonomic level and unidentified food materials were counted as unidentified The
iIIIliticatl()o of the gut contents will be made based on Sze (1993) and Pechenik (2000)
332Gut content analysis
The guts were dissected and the contents were examined under compound
OS(ope The following categories of contents are considered fish insects (both
and terrestrial) zooplankton microbenthos macrophytes filamentous algae
and planktonic) other phytoplankton and pollen and seeds
Analysis of gut using dissection was conducted using a sharp and fine dissecting
for the incision Once the intact gut has been dissected it was place on a clean
rosco~1e slide The gut contents were tease from the gut or foregut with a fine
_lCtiIltg pin or fine forceps and disperse in slide It was placed a cover slip over the
pressed gently to spread the gut material and then dry the slide on a slide
10
warmer The gut contents was examine and identified its components as accurately as
possible
To measure the gut contents of the gut and to estimate the frequency of occurrence
in the stomach numerical (quantitative) method will be used The diet analysis will be
analyzed on their Food Composition (Cn) and Frequency of Occurrence (F) (Hyslop 1980
Tan 2004 Hasnidah 2005)
Frequency of Occurrence
To estimate the proportion of the population that feed on the particular food items
F =(AlB) x 100
Where
A =Number of guts containing a particular food item
B =Total number of guts being analyzed
Food Composition
The comparison of numerical percentage in the types of food inside the guts and the
potential of food taken by fishes will give the information about the food selection
Cn =(CD) x 100
Where
C = Number of food items of a given type in all specimens
D =Total number of all food items that are found in all specimens
11
34 Data analysis for Fish Composition
To analyze the fish composition analysis of biological indices such as Shannon-Weiner
Diversity Index (H) Margalef Richness Index (D) and Pielou Similarity Index (J) will be
used as follows
Shannon and Weiner Diversity Index (H) ( Shannon and Weaver 1963)
H =-Ipi In pi
Where
pi = NilN (Ni = Total number of individuals of species i)
N = total number of individuals of all species
Margalef Richness Index (D) (Margalef 1968)
D= S-1I10g N
where
S = total number of species
N =total number of individuals of all species
Pielou Similarity Index (J) (Pielou 1966)
J= HI In S
Where
H = diversity index
S =total number of species
12
CHAPTER IV
40 RESULT AND DISCUSSION
41 Fish Assemblages
A total of 106 individua1s from fifteen species belonging to 5 families and 11 genus
namely Bagridae Cyprinidae Mastacembelidae Pangasidae and Siluridae were caught
during this project
bull Bagridae
bull Cyprinidae
Mastacembelidae
bull Pangasidae
Siluridae
Figure 2 Percentage of freshwater fish based on family obtained during this project
Family Cyprinidae (604) are the dominant family inhabiting Nanga Merit
followed by family Siluridae (226) Bagridae (151 ) Mastacembelidae (09) and
Pangasidae (09) (Fig 2) This finding is supported by Nyanti et al (1995) where they
reported approximately 66 fish caught were family Cyprinidae in Batang Rajang This
si ti n was also in accordance with Ismail (1994) who stated that the freshwater habitat
of Southeast Asia was dominated by cyprinid fish Similar results were obtained by
13
Khairul Adha et al (2009) where they reported that Batang Kerang was dominated by
Cyprinidae Approximately 33 of freshwater fish in the Western Borneo mostly are
dominated by Cyprinidae (Robert 1989)
The species belonging to family Cyprinidae found in all stations except Station 9
The absence of fish from family Cyprinidae in Station 9 is probably due to the technical
error during fish sampling The dominant genera in terms of total number of individuals
caught were represented by Cyclocheichthys (236) Rasbora (142) and Barbodes
(1 23) Nyanti et al (1999) documented genera Nematabramis and Tor representing
324 and 168 respectively as the dominant genera in Kelabit Highland This contrast
findings found between these two studies may be due to the sampling period This study
was conducted their samplings during dry season whereas Nyanti et al (1999) conducted
during raining season
In this study Nematabramis borneesis was found only in Station 1 with only two
individual In contrast with study done by Nyanti et at (1999) recorded a total of 168
individuals of Nematabramis borneesis in Kelabit Highland Station 8 has the highest
number of species with eight individual recorded whereas Station 2 4 and 5 recorded the
lowest nwnber of species with only one individuals (Table 1)
The abundance of Rasbora is coherent with the characteristics of the stations
Rasbora argyrotaemia has been found only in clear water over gravel bottom in North
Borneo (Inger amp Chin 1990) This species live in a moderate to fast flowing streams with
sandy bottoms and fast flowing rivers with gravel and rocky susbtrate (Kottelat et at
1993 Rachmatika2005) Furthermore the habitat is characterized by heavy vegetation
middotch most likely serves as a nursery grounds Sipin (2004) had carried out a study on
14
diversity of fish in Sungai Kesit Batang Lemanak Sarawak and he also recorded Rasbora
as the dominant genus
Kryptopterus limpok was found in Station 7 which recorded a total of 22
individuals compared to other stations (Table 1) Family Bagridae and Siluridae were
found at Station 7 8 and 9 which represent Sungai Merit (lower part) Sungai Rajang (east
part) and Sungai Rajang (west part) Atirah (2010) recorded to have 349ftu for turbidity
and 506 for pH water in Station 7 Khairul Adha et al (2009) reported that Bagridae and
Siluridae have the ability to adapt in water with low dissolved oxygen levels and high
acidic water Atack (2006) added that Bagridae live in downstream to the tidal brackish
waters oflarger rivers
Mastacembelidae keithi was found only at Station 8 that comprises an area of fast
flowing turbid water and muddy bottom Inger and Chin (1990) recorded that most
individuals of this species were caught over silty bottom sand gravel and rock In
addition Martin-Smith and Tan (1998) documented that at Danum Valley Eastern of
Sabah has fewer individuals of this species in which it was never abundant and only few
individuals found in leaf banks or under log debris or log During dry season some of this
species burrow into the bottom mud (Graham 1997 Berra 2001)
The distribution of fish is also influence by the biological factors of the aquatic
environment namely the availability of food items (Khairul Adha et al2009 Cyprino et
al2008 Moyle et al 2000)
The number of catch in this study was low comparing to other studies for example
Khairul Adha et al (2009) documented a total of 234 individuals were caught in Batang
g and Nyanti et al (1999) reported a total of 521 individuals were caught in Kelabit
Highland in Sarawak This may due to the effect of poisoning and low water level during
15
models as a tool to understand complex ecosystems (Lopez-Peralta et at 2002 Bachok et
at 2004)
Fish feeding activity is controlled by environments behavior and physiology Fish
diets varies according to area prey availability season time of day and fish size Bhuiyan
et ai (2006) states that the utilization of food and rate of digestion is also influence by the
quality and quantity of available food organisms In general most of a fishs diet consists
ofbenthic invertebrates often supplemented by terrestrial invertebrates
Studies on natural feeding of fish permit to identify the trophic feeding
composition structure and stability of food webs relationships present in aquatic
ecosystems identifying In the same time the study of food and feeding habits of
freshwater fish species is a subject of continuous research because it constituted the basis
for the development of a successful fisheries management program on fish capture and
culture (Oronsaye et ai 2005) Studies on diet composition are important in community
ecology because the use of resources by organisms has a major influence on population
interactions within a community (Mequilla 2007)
24 Fish dietary analysis
Through the examination of the gut content analysis the feeding behavior of
freshwater fishes can be determined The analyses were limited to food items found in the
gut and esophagus to increase the possibility that the food item had been eaten recently and
in the habitat where the fish were caught (Wennhage et aI 2002 Tan 2004 Hasnidah
2005) Most studies of the feeding ecology of teleost fish in their natural habitats have
6
emphasized the temporal and systematic aspects of a particular species (Hofer amp Schiemer
198 1 )
For dietary analysis only the stomach content is considered most important This
analysis is significant for the study of predation competitions trophic level and food web
in the ecosystem (Anderson 2000 Tan 2004 Luna et al 2008) Furthermore without the
knowledge of dietary relationships among organism community structure and population
interaction are difficult to assume (Layman amp Silliman 2002)
During the feeding activity one should consider the percentage of empty stomach
in a sample as well as composition and state of digestion of each prey in each fish gut at
each sampling since feeding activity is controlled by environments behavior and
physiology There are three methods of gut content analysis which are numerical
volumetric and gravimetric analysis However the suitable methods depends on the study
and food type to be analyzed (Windwell et al 1978 Tan 2004 Hasnidah 2005)
7
CHAPTER III
30 Materials and Methods
31 Study Area
This study was carried out at Nanga Merit Kapit Sarawak (Fig 31) Study areas
covers nine stations namely station 1 (Sg Sebulut) station 2 (Sg Seririt) station 3 (Sg
Beluti) station 4 (Sg Temulan) station 5 (Sg Merit- upper area) station 6 (Sg Meritshy
middle area) station 7 (Sg Merit- lower area) station 8 (Sg Rajang-east part) and station
9 (Sg Rajang- west part) (Fig 1)
32 Fish sampling
Fishes were collected using cast net with stretched mesh size of I5cm 2m long In
several stations gill net with stretched mesh of 15cm was used All species were
identified follow those from Mohsin and Ambak (1983) Robert (1989) Inger and Chin
(1990) and Kottelat et ai (1993) Photograph of each species was taken for record The
total length (em) standard length (cm) was measured using measuring board and the wet
weight (gram) was measured using weighting scale and recorded accordingly The
specimens were preserved in 10 formalin in the field and later replaced with 70
ethanol after two weeks in the laboratory
Fish gut was dissected from each species after identification accomplished The
guts were pre-mixed into 10 formalin and then the contents were completely emptied
into labeled Petri dish containing 70 ethanol AU species were identified follows those
Kot clat et ai (1993) Data analysis of biological indices such as Shannon-Weiner
8
Diversity Index (H) Margalef Richness Index (D) and Pielou Similarity Index (J) were
used
N
T
Figure 1 Locations of the sampling sites involved in this study
Keys
1- Sungai Sebulut 4- Sungai Temulan 7- Sungai Merit (lower)
2- Sungai Seririt 5- Sungai Merit (upper) 8- Sungai Rajang (east part)
- Sungai Beluti 6- Sungai Merit (middle) 9- Sungai Rajang (west part)
9
~LIlDOlratlory analysis
331Fish diet analysis
Based on the results of gut content analysis the diet of freshwater fish species at
The preserved gut was washed with tap water and was then cut open and the entire
contents were removed and were placed on the Petri dish The gut contents of each
were analyzed under the compound microscope Identification of the gut
IfllllOUIiJ Was made based on the morphology characteristics of each organism The number
item in the contents will be counted in a grid Petri dish Items were identified to the
taxonomic level and unidentified food materials were counted as unidentified The
iIIIliticatl()o of the gut contents will be made based on Sze (1993) and Pechenik (2000)
332Gut content analysis
The guts were dissected and the contents were examined under compound
OS(ope The following categories of contents are considered fish insects (both
and terrestrial) zooplankton microbenthos macrophytes filamentous algae
and planktonic) other phytoplankton and pollen and seeds
Analysis of gut using dissection was conducted using a sharp and fine dissecting
for the incision Once the intact gut has been dissected it was place on a clean
rosco~1e slide The gut contents were tease from the gut or foregut with a fine
_lCtiIltg pin or fine forceps and disperse in slide It was placed a cover slip over the
pressed gently to spread the gut material and then dry the slide on a slide
10
warmer The gut contents was examine and identified its components as accurately as
possible
To measure the gut contents of the gut and to estimate the frequency of occurrence
in the stomach numerical (quantitative) method will be used The diet analysis will be
analyzed on their Food Composition (Cn) and Frequency of Occurrence (F) (Hyslop 1980
Tan 2004 Hasnidah 2005)
Frequency of Occurrence
To estimate the proportion of the population that feed on the particular food items
F =(AlB) x 100
Where
A =Number of guts containing a particular food item
B =Total number of guts being analyzed
Food Composition
The comparison of numerical percentage in the types of food inside the guts and the
potential of food taken by fishes will give the information about the food selection
Cn =(CD) x 100
Where
C = Number of food items of a given type in all specimens
D =Total number of all food items that are found in all specimens
11
34 Data analysis for Fish Composition
To analyze the fish composition analysis of biological indices such as Shannon-Weiner
Diversity Index (H) Margalef Richness Index (D) and Pielou Similarity Index (J) will be
used as follows
Shannon and Weiner Diversity Index (H) ( Shannon and Weaver 1963)
H =-Ipi In pi
Where
pi = NilN (Ni = Total number of individuals of species i)
N = total number of individuals of all species
Margalef Richness Index (D) (Margalef 1968)
D= S-1I10g N
where
S = total number of species
N =total number of individuals of all species
Pielou Similarity Index (J) (Pielou 1966)
J= HI In S
Where
H = diversity index
S =total number of species
12
CHAPTER IV
40 RESULT AND DISCUSSION
41 Fish Assemblages
A total of 106 individua1s from fifteen species belonging to 5 families and 11 genus
namely Bagridae Cyprinidae Mastacembelidae Pangasidae and Siluridae were caught
during this project
bull Bagridae
bull Cyprinidae
Mastacembelidae
bull Pangasidae
Siluridae
Figure 2 Percentage of freshwater fish based on family obtained during this project
Family Cyprinidae (604) are the dominant family inhabiting Nanga Merit
followed by family Siluridae (226) Bagridae (151 ) Mastacembelidae (09) and
Pangasidae (09) (Fig 2) This finding is supported by Nyanti et al (1995) where they
reported approximately 66 fish caught were family Cyprinidae in Batang Rajang This
si ti n was also in accordance with Ismail (1994) who stated that the freshwater habitat
of Southeast Asia was dominated by cyprinid fish Similar results were obtained by
13
Khairul Adha et al (2009) where they reported that Batang Kerang was dominated by
Cyprinidae Approximately 33 of freshwater fish in the Western Borneo mostly are
dominated by Cyprinidae (Robert 1989)
The species belonging to family Cyprinidae found in all stations except Station 9
The absence of fish from family Cyprinidae in Station 9 is probably due to the technical
error during fish sampling The dominant genera in terms of total number of individuals
caught were represented by Cyclocheichthys (236) Rasbora (142) and Barbodes
(1 23) Nyanti et al (1999) documented genera Nematabramis and Tor representing
324 and 168 respectively as the dominant genera in Kelabit Highland This contrast
findings found between these two studies may be due to the sampling period This study
was conducted their samplings during dry season whereas Nyanti et al (1999) conducted
during raining season
In this study Nematabramis borneesis was found only in Station 1 with only two
individual In contrast with study done by Nyanti et at (1999) recorded a total of 168
individuals of Nematabramis borneesis in Kelabit Highland Station 8 has the highest
number of species with eight individual recorded whereas Station 2 4 and 5 recorded the
lowest nwnber of species with only one individuals (Table 1)
The abundance of Rasbora is coherent with the characteristics of the stations
Rasbora argyrotaemia has been found only in clear water over gravel bottom in North
Borneo (Inger amp Chin 1990) This species live in a moderate to fast flowing streams with
sandy bottoms and fast flowing rivers with gravel and rocky susbtrate (Kottelat et at
1993 Rachmatika2005) Furthermore the habitat is characterized by heavy vegetation
middotch most likely serves as a nursery grounds Sipin (2004) had carried out a study on
14
diversity of fish in Sungai Kesit Batang Lemanak Sarawak and he also recorded Rasbora
as the dominant genus
Kryptopterus limpok was found in Station 7 which recorded a total of 22
individuals compared to other stations (Table 1) Family Bagridae and Siluridae were
found at Station 7 8 and 9 which represent Sungai Merit (lower part) Sungai Rajang (east
part) and Sungai Rajang (west part) Atirah (2010) recorded to have 349ftu for turbidity
and 506 for pH water in Station 7 Khairul Adha et al (2009) reported that Bagridae and
Siluridae have the ability to adapt in water with low dissolved oxygen levels and high
acidic water Atack (2006) added that Bagridae live in downstream to the tidal brackish
waters oflarger rivers
Mastacembelidae keithi was found only at Station 8 that comprises an area of fast
flowing turbid water and muddy bottom Inger and Chin (1990) recorded that most
individuals of this species were caught over silty bottom sand gravel and rock In
addition Martin-Smith and Tan (1998) documented that at Danum Valley Eastern of
Sabah has fewer individuals of this species in which it was never abundant and only few
individuals found in leaf banks or under log debris or log During dry season some of this
species burrow into the bottom mud (Graham 1997 Berra 2001)
The distribution of fish is also influence by the biological factors of the aquatic
environment namely the availability of food items (Khairul Adha et al2009 Cyprino et
al2008 Moyle et al 2000)
The number of catch in this study was low comparing to other studies for example
Khairul Adha et al (2009) documented a total of 234 individuals were caught in Batang
g and Nyanti et al (1999) reported a total of 521 individuals were caught in Kelabit
Highland in Sarawak This may due to the effect of poisoning and low water level during
15
emphasized the temporal and systematic aspects of a particular species (Hofer amp Schiemer
198 1 )
For dietary analysis only the stomach content is considered most important This
analysis is significant for the study of predation competitions trophic level and food web
in the ecosystem (Anderson 2000 Tan 2004 Luna et al 2008) Furthermore without the
knowledge of dietary relationships among organism community structure and population
interaction are difficult to assume (Layman amp Silliman 2002)
During the feeding activity one should consider the percentage of empty stomach
in a sample as well as composition and state of digestion of each prey in each fish gut at
each sampling since feeding activity is controlled by environments behavior and
physiology There are three methods of gut content analysis which are numerical
volumetric and gravimetric analysis However the suitable methods depends on the study
and food type to be analyzed (Windwell et al 1978 Tan 2004 Hasnidah 2005)
7
CHAPTER III
30 Materials and Methods
31 Study Area
This study was carried out at Nanga Merit Kapit Sarawak (Fig 31) Study areas
covers nine stations namely station 1 (Sg Sebulut) station 2 (Sg Seririt) station 3 (Sg
Beluti) station 4 (Sg Temulan) station 5 (Sg Merit- upper area) station 6 (Sg Meritshy
middle area) station 7 (Sg Merit- lower area) station 8 (Sg Rajang-east part) and station
9 (Sg Rajang- west part) (Fig 1)
32 Fish sampling
Fishes were collected using cast net with stretched mesh size of I5cm 2m long In
several stations gill net with stretched mesh of 15cm was used All species were
identified follow those from Mohsin and Ambak (1983) Robert (1989) Inger and Chin
(1990) and Kottelat et ai (1993) Photograph of each species was taken for record The
total length (em) standard length (cm) was measured using measuring board and the wet
weight (gram) was measured using weighting scale and recorded accordingly The
specimens were preserved in 10 formalin in the field and later replaced with 70
ethanol after two weeks in the laboratory
Fish gut was dissected from each species after identification accomplished The
guts were pre-mixed into 10 formalin and then the contents were completely emptied
into labeled Petri dish containing 70 ethanol AU species were identified follows those
Kot clat et ai (1993) Data analysis of biological indices such as Shannon-Weiner
8
Diversity Index (H) Margalef Richness Index (D) and Pielou Similarity Index (J) were
used
N
T
Figure 1 Locations of the sampling sites involved in this study
Keys
1- Sungai Sebulut 4- Sungai Temulan 7- Sungai Merit (lower)
2- Sungai Seririt 5- Sungai Merit (upper) 8- Sungai Rajang (east part)
- Sungai Beluti 6- Sungai Merit (middle) 9- Sungai Rajang (west part)
9
~LIlDOlratlory analysis
331Fish diet analysis
Based on the results of gut content analysis the diet of freshwater fish species at
The preserved gut was washed with tap water and was then cut open and the entire
contents were removed and were placed on the Petri dish The gut contents of each
were analyzed under the compound microscope Identification of the gut
IfllllOUIiJ Was made based on the morphology characteristics of each organism The number
item in the contents will be counted in a grid Petri dish Items were identified to the
taxonomic level and unidentified food materials were counted as unidentified The
iIIIliticatl()o of the gut contents will be made based on Sze (1993) and Pechenik (2000)
332Gut content analysis
The guts were dissected and the contents were examined under compound
OS(ope The following categories of contents are considered fish insects (both
and terrestrial) zooplankton microbenthos macrophytes filamentous algae
and planktonic) other phytoplankton and pollen and seeds
Analysis of gut using dissection was conducted using a sharp and fine dissecting
for the incision Once the intact gut has been dissected it was place on a clean
rosco~1e slide The gut contents were tease from the gut or foregut with a fine
_lCtiIltg pin or fine forceps and disperse in slide It was placed a cover slip over the
pressed gently to spread the gut material and then dry the slide on a slide
10
warmer The gut contents was examine and identified its components as accurately as
possible
To measure the gut contents of the gut and to estimate the frequency of occurrence
in the stomach numerical (quantitative) method will be used The diet analysis will be
analyzed on their Food Composition (Cn) and Frequency of Occurrence (F) (Hyslop 1980
Tan 2004 Hasnidah 2005)
Frequency of Occurrence
To estimate the proportion of the population that feed on the particular food items
F =(AlB) x 100
Where
A =Number of guts containing a particular food item
B =Total number of guts being analyzed
Food Composition
The comparison of numerical percentage in the types of food inside the guts and the
potential of food taken by fishes will give the information about the food selection
Cn =(CD) x 100
Where
C = Number of food items of a given type in all specimens
D =Total number of all food items that are found in all specimens
11
34 Data analysis for Fish Composition
To analyze the fish composition analysis of biological indices such as Shannon-Weiner
Diversity Index (H) Margalef Richness Index (D) and Pielou Similarity Index (J) will be
used as follows
Shannon and Weiner Diversity Index (H) ( Shannon and Weaver 1963)
H =-Ipi In pi
Where
pi = NilN (Ni = Total number of individuals of species i)
N = total number of individuals of all species
Margalef Richness Index (D) (Margalef 1968)
D= S-1I10g N
where
S = total number of species
N =total number of individuals of all species
Pielou Similarity Index (J) (Pielou 1966)
J= HI In S
Where
H = diversity index
S =total number of species
12
CHAPTER IV
40 RESULT AND DISCUSSION
41 Fish Assemblages
A total of 106 individua1s from fifteen species belonging to 5 families and 11 genus
namely Bagridae Cyprinidae Mastacembelidae Pangasidae and Siluridae were caught
during this project
bull Bagridae
bull Cyprinidae
Mastacembelidae
bull Pangasidae
Siluridae
Figure 2 Percentage of freshwater fish based on family obtained during this project
Family Cyprinidae (604) are the dominant family inhabiting Nanga Merit
followed by family Siluridae (226) Bagridae (151 ) Mastacembelidae (09) and
Pangasidae (09) (Fig 2) This finding is supported by Nyanti et al (1995) where they
reported approximately 66 fish caught were family Cyprinidae in Batang Rajang This
si ti n was also in accordance with Ismail (1994) who stated that the freshwater habitat
of Southeast Asia was dominated by cyprinid fish Similar results were obtained by
13
Khairul Adha et al (2009) where they reported that Batang Kerang was dominated by
Cyprinidae Approximately 33 of freshwater fish in the Western Borneo mostly are
dominated by Cyprinidae (Robert 1989)
The species belonging to family Cyprinidae found in all stations except Station 9
The absence of fish from family Cyprinidae in Station 9 is probably due to the technical
error during fish sampling The dominant genera in terms of total number of individuals
caught were represented by Cyclocheichthys (236) Rasbora (142) and Barbodes
(1 23) Nyanti et al (1999) documented genera Nematabramis and Tor representing
324 and 168 respectively as the dominant genera in Kelabit Highland This contrast
findings found between these two studies may be due to the sampling period This study
was conducted their samplings during dry season whereas Nyanti et al (1999) conducted
during raining season
In this study Nematabramis borneesis was found only in Station 1 with only two
individual In contrast with study done by Nyanti et at (1999) recorded a total of 168
individuals of Nematabramis borneesis in Kelabit Highland Station 8 has the highest
number of species with eight individual recorded whereas Station 2 4 and 5 recorded the
lowest nwnber of species with only one individuals (Table 1)
The abundance of Rasbora is coherent with the characteristics of the stations
Rasbora argyrotaemia has been found only in clear water over gravel bottom in North
Borneo (Inger amp Chin 1990) This species live in a moderate to fast flowing streams with
sandy bottoms and fast flowing rivers with gravel and rocky susbtrate (Kottelat et at
1993 Rachmatika2005) Furthermore the habitat is characterized by heavy vegetation
middotch most likely serves as a nursery grounds Sipin (2004) had carried out a study on
14
diversity of fish in Sungai Kesit Batang Lemanak Sarawak and he also recorded Rasbora
as the dominant genus
Kryptopterus limpok was found in Station 7 which recorded a total of 22
individuals compared to other stations (Table 1) Family Bagridae and Siluridae were
found at Station 7 8 and 9 which represent Sungai Merit (lower part) Sungai Rajang (east
part) and Sungai Rajang (west part) Atirah (2010) recorded to have 349ftu for turbidity
and 506 for pH water in Station 7 Khairul Adha et al (2009) reported that Bagridae and
Siluridae have the ability to adapt in water with low dissolved oxygen levels and high
acidic water Atack (2006) added that Bagridae live in downstream to the tidal brackish
waters oflarger rivers
Mastacembelidae keithi was found only at Station 8 that comprises an area of fast
flowing turbid water and muddy bottom Inger and Chin (1990) recorded that most
individuals of this species were caught over silty bottom sand gravel and rock In
addition Martin-Smith and Tan (1998) documented that at Danum Valley Eastern of
Sabah has fewer individuals of this species in which it was never abundant and only few
individuals found in leaf banks or under log debris or log During dry season some of this
species burrow into the bottom mud (Graham 1997 Berra 2001)
The distribution of fish is also influence by the biological factors of the aquatic
environment namely the availability of food items (Khairul Adha et al2009 Cyprino et
al2008 Moyle et al 2000)
The number of catch in this study was low comparing to other studies for example
Khairul Adha et al (2009) documented a total of 234 individuals were caught in Batang
g and Nyanti et al (1999) reported a total of 521 individuals were caught in Kelabit
Highland in Sarawak This may due to the effect of poisoning and low water level during
15
CHAPTER III
30 Materials and Methods
31 Study Area
This study was carried out at Nanga Merit Kapit Sarawak (Fig 31) Study areas
covers nine stations namely station 1 (Sg Sebulut) station 2 (Sg Seririt) station 3 (Sg
Beluti) station 4 (Sg Temulan) station 5 (Sg Merit- upper area) station 6 (Sg Meritshy
middle area) station 7 (Sg Merit- lower area) station 8 (Sg Rajang-east part) and station
9 (Sg Rajang- west part) (Fig 1)
32 Fish sampling
Fishes were collected using cast net with stretched mesh size of I5cm 2m long In
several stations gill net with stretched mesh of 15cm was used All species were
identified follow those from Mohsin and Ambak (1983) Robert (1989) Inger and Chin
(1990) and Kottelat et ai (1993) Photograph of each species was taken for record The
total length (em) standard length (cm) was measured using measuring board and the wet
weight (gram) was measured using weighting scale and recorded accordingly The
specimens were preserved in 10 formalin in the field and later replaced with 70
ethanol after two weeks in the laboratory
Fish gut was dissected from each species after identification accomplished The
guts were pre-mixed into 10 formalin and then the contents were completely emptied
into labeled Petri dish containing 70 ethanol AU species were identified follows those
Kot clat et ai (1993) Data analysis of biological indices such as Shannon-Weiner
8
Diversity Index (H) Margalef Richness Index (D) and Pielou Similarity Index (J) were
used
N
T
Figure 1 Locations of the sampling sites involved in this study
Keys
1- Sungai Sebulut 4- Sungai Temulan 7- Sungai Merit (lower)
2- Sungai Seririt 5- Sungai Merit (upper) 8- Sungai Rajang (east part)
- Sungai Beluti 6- Sungai Merit (middle) 9- Sungai Rajang (west part)
9
~LIlDOlratlory analysis
331Fish diet analysis
Based on the results of gut content analysis the diet of freshwater fish species at
The preserved gut was washed with tap water and was then cut open and the entire
contents were removed and were placed on the Petri dish The gut contents of each
were analyzed under the compound microscope Identification of the gut
IfllllOUIiJ Was made based on the morphology characteristics of each organism The number
item in the contents will be counted in a grid Petri dish Items were identified to the
taxonomic level and unidentified food materials were counted as unidentified The
iIIIliticatl()o of the gut contents will be made based on Sze (1993) and Pechenik (2000)
332Gut content analysis
The guts were dissected and the contents were examined under compound
OS(ope The following categories of contents are considered fish insects (both
and terrestrial) zooplankton microbenthos macrophytes filamentous algae
and planktonic) other phytoplankton and pollen and seeds
Analysis of gut using dissection was conducted using a sharp and fine dissecting
for the incision Once the intact gut has been dissected it was place on a clean
rosco~1e slide The gut contents were tease from the gut or foregut with a fine
_lCtiIltg pin or fine forceps and disperse in slide It was placed a cover slip over the
pressed gently to spread the gut material and then dry the slide on a slide
10
warmer The gut contents was examine and identified its components as accurately as
possible
To measure the gut contents of the gut and to estimate the frequency of occurrence
in the stomach numerical (quantitative) method will be used The diet analysis will be
analyzed on their Food Composition (Cn) and Frequency of Occurrence (F) (Hyslop 1980
Tan 2004 Hasnidah 2005)
Frequency of Occurrence
To estimate the proportion of the population that feed on the particular food items
F =(AlB) x 100
Where
A =Number of guts containing a particular food item
B =Total number of guts being analyzed
Food Composition
The comparison of numerical percentage in the types of food inside the guts and the
potential of food taken by fishes will give the information about the food selection
Cn =(CD) x 100
Where
C = Number of food items of a given type in all specimens
D =Total number of all food items that are found in all specimens
11
34 Data analysis for Fish Composition
To analyze the fish composition analysis of biological indices such as Shannon-Weiner
Diversity Index (H) Margalef Richness Index (D) and Pielou Similarity Index (J) will be
used as follows
Shannon and Weiner Diversity Index (H) ( Shannon and Weaver 1963)
H =-Ipi In pi
Where
pi = NilN (Ni = Total number of individuals of species i)
N = total number of individuals of all species
Margalef Richness Index (D) (Margalef 1968)
D= S-1I10g N
where
S = total number of species
N =total number of individuals of all species
Pielou Similarity Index (J) (Pielou 1966)
J= HI In S
Where
H = diversity index
S =total number of species
12
CHAPTER IV
40 RESULT AND DISCUSSION
41 Fish Assemblages
A total of 106 individua1s from fifteen species belonging to 5 families and 11 genus
namely Bagridae Cyprinidae Mastacembelidae Pangasidae and Siluridae were caught
during this project
bull Bagridae
bull Cyprinidae
Mastacembelidae
bull Pangasidae
Siluridae
Figure 2 Percentage of freshwater fish based on family obtained during this project
Family Cyprinidae (604) are the dominant family inhabiting Nanga Merit
followed by family Siluridae (226) Bagridae (151 ) Mastacembelidae (09) and
Pangasidae (09) (Fig 2) This finding is supported by Nyanti et al (1995) where they
reported approximately 66 fish caught were family Cyprinidae in Batang Rajang This
si ti n was also in accordance with Ismail (1994) who stated that the freshwater habitat
of Southeast Asia was dominated by cyprinid fish Similar results were obtained by
13
Khairul Adha et al (2009) where they reported that Batang Kerang was dominated by
Cyprinidae Approximately 33 of freshwater fish in the Western Borneo mostly are
dominated by Cyprinidae (Robert 1989)
The species belonging to family Cyprinidae found in all stations except Station 9
The absence of fish from family Cyprinidae in Station 9 is probably due to the technical
error during fish sampling The dominant genera in terms of total number of individuals
caught were represented by Cyclocheichthys (236) Rasbora (142) and Barbodes
(1 23) Nyanti et al (1999) documented genera Nematabramis and Tor representing
324 and 168 respectively as the dominant genera in Kelabit Highland This contrast
findings found between these two studies may be due to the sampling period This study
was conducted their samplings during dry season whereas Nyanti et al (1999) conducted
during raining season
In this study Nematabramis borneesis was found only in Station 1 with only two
individual In contrast with study done by Nyanti et at (1999) recorded a total of 168
individuals of Nematabramis borneesis in Kelabit Highland Station 8 has the highest
number of species with eight individual recorded whereas Station 2 4 and 5 recorded the
lowest nwnber of species with only one individuals (Table 1)
The abundance of Rasbora is coherent with the characteristics of the stations
Rasbora argyrotaemia has been found only in clear water over gravel bottom in North
Borneo (Inger amp Chin 1990) This species live in a moderate to fast flowing streams with
sandy bottoms and fast flowing rivers with gravel and rocky susbtrate (Kottelat et at
1993 Rachmatika2005) Furthermore the habitat is characterized by heavy vegetation
middotch most likely serves as a nursery grounds Sipin (2004) had carried out a study on
14
diversity of fish in Sungai Kesit Batang Lemanak Sarawak and he also recorded Rasbora
as the dominant genus
Kryptopterus limpok was found in Station 7 which recorded a total of 22
individuals compared to other stations (Table 1) Family Bagridae and Siluridae were
found at Station 7 8 and 9 which represent Sungai Merit (lower part) Sungai Rajang (east
part) and Sungai Rajang (west part) Atirah (2010) recorded to have 349ftu for turbidity
and 506 for pH water in Station 7 Khairul Adha et al (2009) reported that Bagridae and
Siluridae have the ability to adapt in water with low dissolved oxygen levels and high
acidic water Atack (2006) added that Bagridae live in downstream to the tidal brackish
waters oflarger rivers
Mastacembelidae keithi was found only at Station 8 that comprises an area of fast
flowing turbid water and muddy bottom Inger and Chin (1990) recorded that most
individuals of this species were caught over silty bottom sand gravel and rock In
addition Martin-Smith and Tan (1998) documented that at Danum Valley Eastern of
Sabah has fewer individuals of this species in which it was never abundant and only few
individuals found in leaf banks or under log debris or log During dry season some of this
species burrow into the bottom mud (Graham 1997 Berra 2001)
The distribution of fish is also influence by the biological factors of the aquatic
environment namely the availability of food items (Khairul Adha et al2009 Cyprino et
al2008 Moyle et al 2000)
The number of catch in this study was low comparing to other studies for example
Khairul Adha et al (2009) documented a total of 234 individuals were caught in Batang
g and Nyanti et al (1999) reported a total of 521 individuals were caught in Kelabit
Highland in Sarawak This may due to the effect of poisoning and low water level during
15
Diversity Index (H) Margalef Richness Index (D) and Pielou Similarity Index (J) were
used
N
T
Figure 1 Locations of the sampling sites involved in this study
Keys
1- Sungai Sebulut 4- Sungai Temulan 7- Sungai Merit (lower)
2- Sungai Seririt 5- Sungai Merit (upper) 8- Sungai Rajang (east part)
- Sungai Beluti 6- Sungai Merit (middle) 9- Sungai Rajang (west part)
9
~LIlDOlratlory analysis
331Fish diet analysis
Based on the results of gut content analysis the diet of freshwater fish species at
The preserved gut was washed with tap water and was then cut open and the entire
contents were removed and were placed on the Petri dish The gut contents of each
were analyzed under the compound microscope Identification of the gut
IfllllOUIiJ Was made based on the morphology characteristics of each organism The number
item in the contents will be counted in a grid Petri dish Items were identified to the
taxonomic level and unidentified food materials were counted as unidentified The
iIIIliticatl()o of the gut contents will be made based on Sze (1993) and Pechenik (2000)
332Gut content analysis
The guts were dissected and the contents were examined under compound
OS(ope The following categories of contents are considered fish insects (both
and terrestrial) zooplankton microbenthos macrophytes filamentous algae
and planktonic) other phytoplankton and pollen and seeds
Analysis of gut using dissection was conducted using a sharp and fine dissecting
for the incision Once the intact gut has been dissected it was place on a clean
rosco~1e slide The gut contents were tease from the gut or foregut with a fine
_lCtiIltg pin or fine forceps and disperse in slide It was placed a cover slip over the
pressed gently to spread the gut material and then dry the slide on a slide
10
warmer The gut contents was examine and identified its components as accurately as
possible
To measure the gut contents of the gut and to estimate the frequency of occurrence
in the stomach numerical (quantitative) method will be used The diet analysis will be
analyzed on their Food Composition (Cn) and Frequency of Occurrence (F) (Hyslop 1980
Tan 2004 Hasnidah 2005)
Frequency of Occurrence
To estimate the proportion of the population that feed on the particular food items
F =(AlB) x 100
Where
A =Number of guts containing a particular food item
B =Total number of guts being analyzed
Food Composition
The comparison of numerical percentage in the types of food inside the guts and the
potential of food taken by fishes will give the information about the food selection
Cn =(CD) x 100
Where
C = Number of food items of a given type in all specimens
D =Total number of all food items that are found in all specimens
11
34 Data analysis for Fish Composition
To analyze the fish composition analysis of biological indices such as Shannon-Weiner
Diversity Index (H) Margalef Richness Index (D) and Pielou Similarity Index (J) will be
used as follows
Shannon and Weiner Diversity Index (H) ( Shannon and Weaver 1963)
H =-Ipi In pi
Where
pi = NilN (Ni = Total number of individuals of species i)
N = total number of individuals of all species
Margalef Richness Index (D) (Margalef 1968)
D= S-1I10g N
where
S = total number of species
N =total number of individuals of all species
Pielou Similarity Index (J) (Pielou 1966)
J= HI In S
Where
H = diversity index
S =total number of species
12
CHAPTER IV
40 RESULT AND DISCUSSION
41 Fish Assemblages
A total of 106 individua1s from fifteen species belonging to 5 families and 11 genus
namely Bagridae Cyprinidae Mastacembelidae Pangasidae and Siluridae were caught
during this project
bull Bagridae
bull Cyprinidae
Mastacembelidae
bull Pangasidae
Siluridae
Figure 2 Percentage of freshwater fish based on family obtained during this project
Family Cyprinidae (604) are the dominant family inhabiting Nanga Merit
followed by family Siluridae (226) Bagridae (151 ) Mastacembelidae (09) and
Pangasidae (09) (Fig 2) This finding is supported by Nyanti et al (1995) where they
reported approximately 66 fish caught were family Cyprinidae in Batang Rajang This
si ti n was also in accordance with Ismail (1994) who stated that the freshwater habitat
of Southeast Asia was dominated by cyprinid fish Similar results were obtained by
13
Khairul Adha et al (2009) where they reported that Batang Kerang was dominated by
Cyprinidae Approximately 33 of freshwater fish in the Western Borneo mostly are
dominated by Cyprinidae (Robert 1989)
The species belonging to family Cyprinidae found in all stations except Station 9
The absence of fish from family Cyprinidae in Station 9 is probably due to the technical
error during fish sampling The dominant genera in terms of total number of individuals
caught were represented by Cyclocheichthys (236) Rasbora (142) and Barbodes
(1 23) Nyanti et al (1999) documented genera Nematabramis and Tor representing
324 and 168 respectively as the dominant genera in Kelabit Highland This contrast
findings found between these two studies may be due to the sampling period This study
was conducted their samplings during dry season whereas Nyanti et al (1999) conducted
during raining season
In this study Nematabramis borneesis was found only in Station 1 with only two
individual In contrast with study done by Nyanti et at (1999) recorded a total of 168
individuals of Nematabramis borneesis in Kelabit Highland Station 8 has the highest
number of species with eight individual recorded whereas Station 2 4 and 5 recorded the
lowest nwnber of species with only one individuals (Table 1)
The abundance of Rasbora is coherent with the characteristics of the stations
Rasbora argyrotaemia has been found only in clear water over gravel bottom in North
Borneo (Inger amp Chin 1990) This species live in a moderate to fast flowing streams with
sandy bottoms and fast flowing rivers with gravel and rocky susbtrate (Kottelat et at
1993 Rachmatika2005) Furthermore the habitat is characterized by heavy vegetation
middotch most likely serves as a nursery grounds Sipin (2004) had carried out a study on
14
diversity of fish in Sungai Kesit Batang Lemanak Sarawak and he also recorded Rasbora
as the dominant genus
Kryptopterus limpok was found in Station 7 which recorded a total of 22
individuals compared to other stations (Table 1) Family Bagridae and Siluridae were
found at Station 7 8 and 9 which represent Sungai Merit (lower part) Sungai Rajang (east
part) and Sungai Rajang (west part) Atirah (2010) recorded to have 349ftu for turbidity
and 506 for pH water in Station 7 Khairul Adha et al (2009) reported that Bagridae and
Siluridae have the ability to adapt in water with low dissolved oxygen levels and high
acidic water Atack (2006) added that Bagridae live in downstream to the tidal brackish
waters oflarger rivers
Mastacembelidae keithi was found only at Station 8 that comprises an area of fast
flowing turbid water and muddy bottom Inger and Chin (1990) recorded that most
individuals of this species were caught over silty bottom sand gravel and rock In
addition Martin-Smith and Tan (1998) documented that at Danum Valley Eastern of
Sabah has fewer individuals of this species in which it was never abundant and only few
individuals found in leaf banks or under log debris or log During dry season some of this
species burrow into the bottom mud (Graham 1997 Berra 2001)
The distribution of fish is also influence by the biological factors of the aquatic
environment namely the availability of food items (Khairul Adha et al2009 Cyprino et
al2008 Moyle et al 2000)
The number of catch in this study was low comparing to other studies for example
Khairul Adha et al (2009) documented a total of 234 individuals were caught in Batang
g and Nyanti et al (1999) reported a total of 521 individuals were caught in Kelabit
Highland in Sarawak This may due to the effect of poisoning and low water level during
15
~LIlDOlratlory analysis
331Fish diet analysis
Based on the results of gut content analysis the diet of freshwater fish species at
The preserved gut was washed with tap water and was then cut open and the entire
contents were removed and were placed on the Petri dish The gut contents of each
were analyzed under the compound microscope Identification of the gut
IfllllOUIiJ Was made based on the morphology characteristics of each organism The number
item in the contents will be counted in a grid Petri dish Items were identified to the
taxonomic level and unidentified food materials were counted as unidentified The
iIIIliticatl()o of the gut contents will be made based on Sze (1993) and Pechenik (2000)
332Gut content analysis
The guts were dissected and the contents were examined under compound
OS(ope The following categories of contents are considered fish insects (both
and terrestrial) zooplankton microbenthos macrophytes filamentous algae
and planktonic) other phytoplankton and pollen and seeds
Analysis of gut using dissection was conducted using a sharp and fine dissecting
for the incision Once the intact gut has been dissected it was place on a clean
rosco~1e slide The gut contents were tease from the gut or foregut with a fine
_lCtiIltg pin or fine forceps and disperse in slide It was placed a cover slip over the
pressed gently to spread the gut material and then dry the slide on a slide
10
warmer The gut contents was examine and identified its components as accurately as
possible
To measure the gut contents of the gut and to estimate the frequency of occurrence
in the stomach numerical (quantitative) method will be used The diet analysis will be
analyzed on their Food Composition (Cn) and Frequency of Occurrence (F) (Hyslop 1980
Tan 2004 Hasnidah 2005)
Frequency of Occurrence
To estimate the proportion of the population that feed on the particular food items
F =(AlB) x 100
Where
A =Number of guts containing a particular food item
B =Total number of guts being analyzed
Food Composition
The comparison of numerical percentage in the types of food inside the guts and the
potential of food taken by fishes will give the information about the food selection
Cn =(CD) x 100
Where
C = Number of food items of a given type in all specimens
D =Total number of all food items that are found in all specimens
11
34 Data analysis for Fish Composition
To analyze the fish composition analysis of biological indices such as Shannon-Weiner
Diversity Index (H) Margalef Richness Index (D) and Pielou Similarity Index (J) will be
used as follows
Shannon and Weiner Diversity Index (H) ( Shannon and Weaver 1963)
H =-Ipi In pi
Where
pi = NilN (Ni = Total number of individuals of species i)
N = total number of individuals of all species
Margalef Richness Index (D) (Margalef 1968)
D= S-1I10g N
where
S = total number of species
N =total number of individuals of all species
Pielou Similarity Index (J) (Pielou 1966)
J= HI In S
Where
H = diversity index
S =total number of species
12
CHAPTER IV
40 RESULT AND DISCUSSION
41 Fish Assemblages
A total of 106 individua1s from fifteen species belonging to 5 families and 11 genus
namely Bagridae Cyprinidae Mastacembelidae Pangasidae and Siluridae were caught
during this project
bull Bagridae
bull Cyprinidae
Mastacembelidae
bull Pangasidae
Siluridae
Figure 2 Percentage of freshwater fish based on family obtained during this project
Family Cyprinidae (604) are the dominant family inhabiting Nanga Merit
followed by family Siluridae (226) Bagridae (151 ) Mastacembelidae (09) and
Pangasidae (09) (Fig 2) This finding is supported by Nyanti et al (1995) where they
reported approximately 66 fish caught were family Cyprinidae in Batang Rajang This
si ti n was also in accordance with Ismail (1994) who stated that the freshwater habitat
of Southeast Asia was dominated by cyprinid fish Similar results were obtained by
13
Khairul Adha et al (2009) where they reported that Batang Kerang was dominated by
Cyprinidae Approximately 33 of freshwater fish in the Western Borneo mostly are
dominated by Cyprinidae (Robert 1989)
The species belonging to family Cyprinidae found in all stations except Station 9
The absence of fish from family Cyprinidae in Station 9 is probably due to the technical
error during fish sampling The dominant genera in terms of total number of individuals
caught were represented by Cyclocheichthys (236) Rasbora (142) and Barbodes
(1 23) Nyanti et al (1999) documented genera Nematabramis and Tor representing
324 and 168 respectively as the dominant genera in Kelabit Highland This contrast
findings found between these two studies may be due to the sampling period This study
was conducted their samplings during dry season whereas Nyanti et al (1999) conducted
during raining season
In this study Nematabramis borneesis was found only in Station 1 with only two
individual In contrast with study done by Nyanti et at (1999) recorded a total of 168
individuals of Nematabramis borneesis in Kelabit Highland Station 8 has the highest
number of species with eight individual recorded whereas Station 2 4 and 5 recorded the
lowest nwnber of species with only one individuals (Table 1)
The abundance of Rasbora is coherent with the characteristics of the stations
Rasbora argyrotaemia has been found only in clear water over gravel bottom in North
Borneo (Inger amp Chin 1990) This species live in a moderate to fast flowing streams with
sandy bottoms and fast flowing rivers with gravel and rocky susbtrate (Kottelat et at
1993 Rachmatika2005) Furthermore the habitat is characterized by heavy vegetation
middotch most likely serves as a nursery grounds Sipin (2004) had carried out a study on
14
diversity of fish in Sungai Kesit Batang Lemanak Sarawak and he also recorded Rasbora
as the dominant genus
Kryptopterus limpok was found in Station 7 which recorded a total of 22
individuals compared to other stations (Table 1) Family Bagridae and Siluridae were
found at Station 7 8 and 9 which represent Sungai Merit (lower part) Sungai Rajang (east
part) and Sungai Rajang (west part) Atirah (2010) recorded to have 349ftu for turbidity
and 506 for pH water in Station 7 Khairul Adha et al (2009) reported that Bagridae and
Siluridae have the ability to adapt in water with low dissolved oxygen levels and high
acidic water Atack (2006) added that Bagridae live in downstream to the tidal brackish
waters oflarger rivers
Mastacembelidae keithi was found only at Station 8 that comprises an area of fast
flowing turbid water and muddy bottom Inger and Chin (1990) recorded that most
individuals of this species were caught over silty bottom sand gravel and rock In
addition Martin-Smith and Tan (1998) documented that at Danum Valley Eastern of
Sabah has fewer individuals of this species in which it was never abundant and only few
individuals found in leaf banks or under log debris or log During dry season some of this
species burrow into the bottom mud (Graham 1997 Berra 2001)
The distribution of fish is also influence by the biological factors of the aquatic
environment namely the availability of food items (Khairul Adha et al2009 Cyprino et
al2008 Moyle et al 2000)
The number of catch in this study was low comparing to other studies for example
Khairul Adha et al (2009) documented a total of 234 individuals were caught in Batang
g and Nyanti et al (1999) reported a total of 521 individuals were caught in Kelabit
Highland in Sarawak This may due to the effect of poisoning and low water level during
15
warmer The gut contents was examine and identified its components as accurately as
possible
To measure the gut contents of the gut and to estimate the frequency of occurrence
in the stomach numerical (quantitative) method will be used The diet analysis will be
analyzed on their Food Composition (Cn) and Frequency of Occurrence (F) (Hyslop 1980
Tan 2004 Hasnidah 2005)
Frequency of Occurrence
To estimate the proportion of the population that feed on the particular food items
F =(AlB) x 100
Where
A =Number of guts containing a particular food item
B =Total number of guts being analyzed
Food Composition
The comparison of numerical percentage in the types of food inside the guts and the
potential of food taken by fishes will give the information about the food selection
Cn =(CD) x 100
Where
C = Number of food items of a given type in all specimens
D =Total number of all food items that are found in all specimens
11
34 Data analysis for Fish Composition
To analyze the fish composition analysis of biological indices such as Shannon-Weiner
Diversity Index (H) Margalef Richness Index (D) and Pielou Similarity Index (J) will be
used as follows
Shannon and Weiner Diversity Index (H) ( Shannon and Weaver 1963)
H =-Ipi In pi
Where
pi = NilN (Ni = Total number of individuals of species i)
N = total number of individuals of all species
Margalef Richness Index (D) (Margalef 1968)
D= S-1I10g N
where
S = total number of species
N =total number of individuals of all species
Pielou Similarity Index (J) (Pielou 1966)
J= HI In S
Where
H = diversity index
S =total number of species
12
CHAPTER IV
40 RESULT AND DISCUSSION
41 Fish Assemblages
A total of 106 individua1s from fifteen species belonging to 5 families and 11 genus
namely Bagridae Cyprinidae Mastacembelidae Pangasidae and Siluridae were caught
during this project
bull Bagridae
bull Cyprinidae
Mastacembelidae
bull Pangasidae
Siluridae
Figure 2 Percentage of freshwater fish based on family obtained during this project
Family Cyprinidae (604) are the dominant family inhabiting Nanga Merit
followed by family Siluridae (226) Bagridae (151 ) Mastacembelidae (09) and
Pangasidae (09) (Fig 2) This finding is supported by Nyanti et al (1995) where they
reported approximately 66 fish caught were family Cyprinidae in Batang Rajang This
si ti n was also in accordance with Ismail (1994) who stated that the freshwater habitat
of Southeast Asia was dominated by cyprinid fish Similar results were obtained by
13
Khairul Adha et al (2009) where they reported that Batang Kerang was dominated by
Cyprinidae Approximately 33 of freshwater fish in the Western Borneo mostly are
dominated by Cyprinidae (Robert 1989)
The species belonging to family Cyprinidae found in all stations except Station 9
The absence of fish from family Cyprinidae in Station 9 is probably due to the technical
error during fish sampling The dominant genera in terms of total number of individuals
caught were represented by Cyclocheichthys (236) Rasbora (142) and Barbodes
(1 23) Nyanti et al (1999) documented genera Nematabramis and Tor representing
324 and 168 respectively as the dominant genera in Kelabit Highland This contrast
findings found between these two studies may be due to the sampling period This study
was conducted their samplings during dry season whereas Nyanti et al (1999) conducted
during raining season
In this study Nematabramis borneesis was found only in Station 1 with only two
individual In contrast with study done by Nyanti et at (1999) recorded a total of 168
individuals of Nematabramis borneesis in Kelabit Highland Station 8 has the highest
number of species with eight individual recorded whereas Station 2 4 and 5 recorded the
lowest nwnber of species with only one individuals (Table 1)
The abundance of Rasbora is coherent with the characteristics of the stations
Rasbora argyrotaemia has been found only in clear water over gravel bottom in North
Borneo (Inger amp Chin 1990) This species live in a moderate to fast flowing streams with
sandy bottoms and fast flowing rivers with gravel and rocky susbtrate (Kottelat et at
1993 Rachmatika2005) Furthermore the habitat is characterized by heavy vegetation
middotch most likely serves as a nursery grounds Sipin (2004) had carried out a study on
14
diversity of fish in Sungai Kesit Batang Lemanak Sarawak and he also recorded Rasbora
as the dominant genus
Kryptopterus limpok was found in Station 7 which recorded a total of 22
individuals compared to other stations (Table 1) Family Bagridae and Siluridae were
found at Station 7 8 and 9 which represent Sungai Merit (lower part) Sungai Rajang (east
part) and Sungai Rajang (west part) Atirah (2010) recorded to have 349ftu for turbidity
and 506 for pH water in Station 7 Khairul Adha et al (2009) reported that Bagridae and
Siluridae have the ability to adapt in water with low dissolved oxygen levels and high
acidic water Atack (2006) added that Bagridae live in downstream to the tidal brackish
waters oflarger rivers
Mastacembelidae keithi was found only at Station 8 that comprises an area of fast
flowing turbid water and muddy bottom Inger and Chin (1990) recorded that most
individuals of this species were caught over silty bottom sand gravel and rock In
addition Martin-Smith and Tan (1998) documented that at Danum Valley Eastern of
Sabah has fewer individuals of this species in which it was never abundant and only few
individuals found in leaf banks or under log debris or log During dry season some of this
species burrow into the bottom mud (Graham 1997 Berra 2001)
The distribution of fish is also influence by the biological factors of the aquatic
environment namely the availability of food items (Khairul Adha et al2009 Cyprino et
al2008 Moyle et al 2000)
The number of catch in this study was low comparing to other studies for example
Khairul Adha et al (2009) documented a total of 234 individuals were caught in Batang
g and Nyanti et al (1999) reported a total of 521 individuals were caught in Kelabit
Highland in Sarawak This may due to the effect of poisoning and low water level during
15
34 Data analysis for Fish Composition
To analyze the fish composition analysis of biological indices such as Shannon-Weiner
Diversity Index (H) Margalef Richness Index (D) and Pielou Similarity Index (J) will be
used as follows
Shannon and Weiner Diversity Index (H) ( Shannon and Weaver 1963)
H =-Ipi In pi
Where
pi = NilN (Ni = Total number of individuals of species i)
N = total number of individuals of all species
Margalef Richness Index (D) (Margalef 1968)
D= S-1I10g N
where
S = total number of species
N =total number of individuals of all species
Pielou Similarity Index (J) (Pielou 1966)
J= HI In S
Where
H = diversity index
S =total number of species
12
CHAPTER IV
40 RESULT AND DISCUSSION
41 Fish Assemblages
A total of 106 individua1s from fifteen species belonging to 5 families and 11 genus
namely Bagridae Cyprinidae Mastacembelidae Pangasidae and Siluridae were caught
during this project
bull Bagridae
bull Cyprinidae
Mastacembelidae
bull Pangasidae
Siluridae
Figure 2 Percentage of freshwater fish based on family obtained during this project
Family Cyprinidae (604) are the dominant family inhabiting Nanga Merit
followed by family Siluridae (226) Bagridae (151 ) Mastacembelidae (09) and
Pangasidae (09) (Fig 2) This finding is supported by Nyanti et al (1995) where they
reported approximately 66 fish caught were family Cyprinidae in Batang Rajang This
si ti n was also in accordance with Ismail (1994) who stated that the freshwater habitat
of Southeast Asia was dominated by cyprinid fish Similar results were obtained by
13
Khairul Adha et al (2009) where they reported that Batang Kerang was dominated by
Cyprinidae Approximately 33 of freshwater fish in the Western Borneo mostly are
dominated by Cyprinidae (Robert 1989)
The species belonging to family Cyprinidae found in all stations except Station 9
The absence of fish from family Cyprinidae in Station 9 is probably due to the technical
error during fish sampling The dominant genera in terms of total number of individuals
caught were represented by Cyclocheichthys (236) Rasbora (142) and Barbodes
(1 23) Nyanti et al (1999) documented genera Nematabramis and Tor representing
324 and 168 respectively as the dominant genera in Kelabit Highland This contrast
findings found between these two studies may be due to the sampling period This study
was conducted their samplings during dry season whereas Nyanti et al (1999) conducted
during raining season
In this study Nematabramis borneesis was found only in Station 1 with only two
individual In contrast with study done by Nyanti et at (1999) recorded a total of 168
individuals of Nematabramis borneesis in Kelabit Highland Station 8 has the highest
number of species with eight individual recorded whereas Station 2 4 and 5 recorded the
lowest nwnber of species with only one individuals (Table 1)
The abundance of Rasbora is coherent with the characteristics of the stations
Rasbora argyrotaemia has been found only in clear water over gravel bottom in North
Borneo (Inger amp Chin 1990) This species live in a moderate to fast flowing streams with
sandy bottoms and fast flowing rivers with gravel and rocky susbtrate (Kottelat et at
1993 Rachmatika2005) Furthermore the habitat is characterized by heavy vegetation
middotch most likely serves as a nursery grounds Sipin (2004) had carried out a study on
14
diversity of fish in Sungai Kesit Batang Lemanak Sarawak and he also recorded Rasbora
as the dominant genus
Kryptopterus limpok was found in Station 7 which recorded a total of 22
individuals compared to other stations (Table 1) Family Bagridae and Siluridae were
found at Station 7 8 and 9 which represent Sungai Merit (lower part) Sungai Rajang (east
part) and Sungai Rajang (west part) Atirah (2010) recorded to have 349ftu for turbidity
and 506 for pH water in Station 7 Khairul Adha et al (2009) reported that Bagridae and
Siluridae have the ability to adapt in water with low dissolved oxygen levels and high
acidic water Atack (2006) added that Bagridae live in downstream to the tidal brackish
waters oflarger rivers
Mastacembelidae keithi was found only at Station 8 that comprises an area of fast
flowing turbid water and muddy bottom Inger and Chin (1990) recorded that most
individuals of this species were caught over silty bottom sand gravel and rock In
addition Martin-Smith and Tan (1998) documented that at Danum Valley Eastern of
Sabah has fewer individuals of this species in which it was never abundant and only few
individuals found in leaf banks or under log debris or log During dry season some of this
species burrow into the bottom mud (Graham 1997 Berra 2001)
The distribution of fish is also influence by the biological factors of the aquatic
environment namely the availability of food items (Khairul Adha et al2009 Cyprino et
al2008 Moyle et al 2000)
The number of catch in this study was low comparing to other studies for example
Khairul Adha et al (2009) documented a total of 234 individuals were caught in Batang
g and Nyanti et al (1999) reported a total of 521 individuals were caught in Kelabit
Highland in Sarawak This may due to the effect of poisoning and low water level during
15
CHAPTER IV
40 RESULT AND DISCUSSION
41 Fish Assemblages
A total of 106 individua1s from fifteen species belonging to 5 families and 11 genus
namely Bagridae Cyprinidae Mastacembelidae Pangasidae and Siluridae were caught
during this project
bull Bagridae
bull Cyprinidae
Mastacembelidae
bull Pangasidae
Siluridae
Figure 2 Percentage of freshwater fish based on family obtained during this project
Family Cyprinidae (604) are the dominant family inhabiting Nanga Merit
followed by family Siluridae (226) Bagridae (151 ) Mastacembelidae (09) and
Pangasidae (09) (Fig 2) This finding is supported by Nyanti et al (1995) where they
reported approximately 66 fish caught were family Cyprinidae in Batang Rajang This
si ti n was also in accordance with Ismail (1994) who stated that the freshwater habitat
of Southeast Asia was dominated by cyprinid fish Similar results were obtained by
13
Khairul Adha et al (2009) where they reported that Batang Kerang was dominated by
Cyprinidae Approximately 33 of freshwater fish in the Western Borneo mostly are
dominated by Cyprinidae (Robert 1989)
The species belonging to family Cyprinidae found in all stations except Station 9
The absence of fish from family Cyprinidae in Station 9 is probably due to the technical
error during fish sampling The dominant genera in terms of total number of individuals
caught were represented by Cyclocheichthys (236) Rasbora (142) and Barbodes
(1 23) Nyanti et al (1999) documented genera Nematabramis and Tor representing
324 and 168 respectively as the dominant genera in Kelabit Highland This contrast
findings found between these two studies may be due to the sampling period This study
was conducted their samplings during dry season whereas Nyanti et al (1999) conducted
during raining season
In this study Nematabramis borneesis was found only in Station 1 with only two
individual In contrast with study done by Nyanti et at (1999) recorded a total of 168
individuals of Nematabramis borneesis in Kelabit Highland Station 8 has the highest
number of species with eight individual recorded whereas Station 2 4 and 5 recorded the
lowest nwnber of species with only one individuals (Table 1)
The abundance of Rasbora is coherent with the characteristics of the stations
Rasbora argyrotaemia has been found only in clear water over gravel bottom in North
Borneo (Inger amp Chin 1990) This species live in a moderate to fast flowing streams with
sandy bottoms and fast flowing rivers with gravel and rocky susbtrate (Kottelat et at
1993 Rachmatika2005) Furthermore the habitat is characterized by heavy vegetation
middotch most likely serves as a nursery grounds Sipin (2004) had carried out a study on
14
diversity of fish in Sungai Kesit Batang Lemanak Sarawak and he also recorded Rasbora
as the dominant genus
Kryptopterus limpok was found in Station 7 which recorded a total of 22
individuals compared to other stations (Table 1) Family Bagridae and Siluridae were
found at Station 7 8 and 9 which represent Sungai Merit (lower part) Sungai Rajang (east
part) and Sungai Rajang (west part) Atirah (2010) recorded to have 349ftu for turbidity
and 506 for pH water in Station 7 Khairul Adha et al (2009) reported that Bagridae and
Siluridae have the ability to adapt in water with low dissolved oxygen levels and high
acidic water Atack (2006) added that Bagridae live in downstream to the tidal brackish
waters oflarger rivers
Mastacembelidae keithi was found only at Station 8 that comprises an area of fast
flowing turbid water and muddy bottom Inger and Chin (1990) recorded that most
individuals of this species were caught over silty bottom sand gravel and rock In
addition Martin-Smith and Tan (1998) documented that at Danum Valley Eastern of
Sabah has fewer individuals of this species in which it was never abundant and only few
individuals found in leaf banks or under log debris or log During dry season some of this
species burrow into the bottom mud (Graham 1997 Berra 2001)
The distribution of fish is also influence by the biological factors of the aquatic
environment namely the availability of food items (Khairul Adha et al2009 Cyprino et
al2008 Moyle et al 2000)
The number of catch in this study was low comparing to other studies for example
Khairul Adha et al (2009) documented a total of 234 individuals were caught in Batang
g and Nyanti et al (1999) reported a total of 521 individuals were caught in Kelabit
Highland in Sarawak This may due to the effect of poisoning and low water level during
15
Khairul Adha et al (2009) where they reported that Batang Kerang was dominated by
Cyprinidae Approximately 33 of freshwater fish in the Western Borneo mostly are
dominated by Cyprinidae (Robert 1989)
The species belonging to family Cyprinidae found in all stations except Station 9
The absence of fish from family Cyprinidae in Station 9 is probably due to the technical
error during fish sampling The dominant genera in terms of total number of individuals
caught were represented by Cyclocheichthys (236) Rasbora (142) and Barbodes
(1 23) Nyanti et al (1999) documented genera Nematabramis and Tor representing
324 and 168 respectively as the dominant genera in Kelabit Highland This contrast
findings found between these two studies may be due to the sampling period This study
was conducted their samplings during dry season whereas Nyanti et al (1999) conducted
during raining season
In this study Nematabramis borneesis was found only in Station 1 with only two
individual In contrast with study done by Nyanti et at (1999) recorded a total of 168
individuals of Nematabramis borneesis in Kelabit Highland Station 8 has the highest
number of species with eight individual recorded whereas Station 2 4 and 5 recorded the
lowest nwnber of species with only one individuals (Table 1)
The abundance of Rasbora is coherent with the characteristics of the stations
Rasbora argyrotaemia has been found only in clear water over gravel bottom in North
Borneo (Inger amp Chin 1990) This species live in a moderate to fast flowing streams with
sandy bottoms and fast flowing rivers with gravel and rocky susbtrate (Kottelat et at
1993 Rachmatika2005) Furthermore the habitat is characterized by heavy vegetation
middotch most likely serves as a nursery grounds Sipin (2004) had carried out a study on
14
diversity of fish in Sungai Kesit Batang Lemanak Sarawak and he also recorded Rasbora
as the dominant genus
Kryptopterus limpok was found in Station 7 which recorded a total of 22
individuals compared to other stations (Table 1) Family Bagridae and Siluridae were
found at Station 7 8 and 9 which represent Sungai Merit (lower part) Sungai Rajang (east
part) and Sungai Rajang (west part) Atirah (2010) recorded to have 349ftu for turbidity
and 506 for pH water in Station 7 Khairul Adha et al (2009) reported that Bagridae and
Siluridae have the ability to adapt in water with low dissolved oxygen levels and high
acidic water Atack (2006) added that Bagridae live in downstream to the tidal brackish
waters oflarger rivers
Mastacembelidae keithi was found only at Station 8 that comprises an area of fast
flowing turbid water and muddy bottom Inger and Chin (1990) recorded that most
individuals of this species were caught over silty bottom sand gravel and rock In
addition Martin-Smith and Tan (1998) documented that at Danum Valley Eastern of
Sabah has fewer individuals of this species in which it was never abundant and only few
individuals found in leaf banks or under log debris or log During dry season some of this
species burrow into the bottom mud (Graham 1997 Berra 2001)
The distribution of fish is also influence by the biological factors of the aquatic
environment namely the availability of food items (Khairul Adha et al2009 Cyprino et
al2008 Moyle et al 2000)
The number of catch in this study was low comparing to other studies for example
Khairul Adha et al (2009) documented a total of 234 individuals were caught in Batang
g and Nyanti et al (1999) reported a total of 521 individuals were caught in Kelabit
Highland in Sarawak This may due to the effect of poisoning and low water level during
15
diversity of fish in Sungai Kesit Batang Lemanak Sarawak and he also recorded Rasbora
as the dominant genus
Kryptopterus limpok was found in Station 7 which recorded a total of 22
individuals compared to other stations (Table 1) Family Bagridae and Siluridae were
found at Station 7 8 and 9 which represent Sungai Merit (lower part) Sungai Rajang (east
part) and Sungai Rajang (west part) Atirah (2010) recorded to have 349ftu for turbidity
and 506 for pH water in Station 7 Khairul Adha et al (2009) reported that Bagridae and
Siluridae have the ability to adapt in water with low dissolved oxygen levels and high
acidic water Atack (2006) added that Bagridae live in downstream to the tidal brackish
waters oflarger rivers
Mastacembelidae keithi was found only at Station 8 that comprises an area of fast
flowing turbid water and muddy bottom Inger and Chin (1990) recorded that most
individuals of this species were caught over silty bottom sand gravel and rock In
addition Martin-Smith and Tan (1998) documented that at Danum Valley Eastern of
Sabah has fewer individuals of this species in which it was never abundant and only few
individuals found in leaf banks or under log debris or log During dry season some of this
species burrow into the bottom mud (Graham 1997 Berra 2001)
The distribution of fish is also influence by the biological factors of the aquatic
environment namely the availability of food items (Khairul Adha et al2009 Cyprino et
al2008 Moyle et al 2000)
The number of catch in this study was low comparing to other studies for example
Khairul Adha et al (2009) documented a total of 234 individuals were caught in Batang
g and Nyanti et al (1999) reported a total of 521 individuals were caught in Kelabit
Highland in Sarawak This may due to the effect of poisoning and low water level during
15