First Report of Ichthyofaunal Composition in the River of Maduao, Maco, Davao de Oro, Philippines

Abstract

Studies on freshwater fishes in Davao Region, Mindanao, Philippines, remain limited and are only conducted in a few areas. To help address this deficiency, the researchers conducted a rapid assessment of freshwater fishes in the river of Maduao, Maco, Davao de Oro, Philippines, in August 2022. A total of 429 individuals representing 12 species from eight families were collected. The Families Eleotridae and Gobiidae were the most represented, with three species each. Five of these species were identified as native, and three were introduced. The most abundant species was Barbodes binotatus of Family Cyprinidae. Two species reported in this study, Bunaka gyrinoides and Giuris tolsoni, were added to the list of known freshwater fishes in the Davao Region. The results of this study not only serve as a baseline for future research but can be a valuable input in crafting policies to protect the river and conserve its biodiversity.