Invasion meltdown and burgeoning threats of invasive fish species in inland waters of India in the era of climate change

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Summary: This study examines the future impact of three invasive fish species—Cyprinus carpio, Oreochromis niloticus, and Clarias gariepinus—on the Ganga River ecosystem. Using spatio-temporal population dynamics models and algorithms, the study predicts significant increases in the biomass and yield of these species over the next decade. By 2029, a rise of 117.87% in the biomass of Common Carp, 116.9% for Tilapia, and 139.2% for African Catfish is anticipated. The study also analyzes how climatic factors, particularly rainfall and temperature, influence the growth of these invasive species. The results show that temperature and rainfall variances affect Tilapia and African Catfish more than Common Carp. These findings highlight the growing pressures of fish invasions on the Ganga River, driven by climate change, and suggest new challenges for managing freshwater ecosystems. The study emphasizes the need for more robust management strategies to control invasive species and mitigate their ecological impact.

AUTHOR: Dr. A.K. Singh
YEAR: 2021
PUBLISHER:Aquatic Ecosystem Health & Management 
LINK: Article