World Fish Migration Day, 2020 Celebration


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Wildlife Institute of India has celebrated a two-day event (23rd and 24th October, 2020) on World Fish Migration Day, 2020 in Rudraprayag, situated at the confluence of Alaknanda and Mandakini rivers. A training workshop was conducted in co-ordination with Rudraprayag Forest Division, Government of Uttarakhand. The main objective of this training workshop was sensitize the frontline staff of Forest Department towards promoting the sustainable management of river valleys and fish conservation. A total of 40 participants including forest officials, frontline staff and students were trained on fish identification, monitoring aquatic habitat and riparian vegetation. The event was inaugurated by Sh Vaibhav Kumar Singh, DFO, Rudraprayag Division followed by a talk on importance of river ecology, wildlife and aquatic habitats by Dr. K. Sivakumar. Dr. J.A. Johnson took an interactive session on learning and identification of the major fish fauna of Rudraprayag. The forest staff were then trained at the field regarding habitat monitoring that include identification of suitable spawning and nursery grounds of migratory fishes. Additionally, importance of riparian vegetation in maintenance of river health and bank stability was also demonstrated.

The second day, forest staff were trained towards monitoring the water quality and identification of major fish fauna and benthic macroinvertebrates. The participants were also trained on identifying the suitable habitats such as riffles, runs and pools preferred by different fish species. This was followed by demonstration of techniques study the migratory movements of fish using telemetry equipment. To make the event more interactive, fun filled quiz sessions were also organized to appreciate the participants on their learning skills followed by distribution of prizes and mementos to the winners.

At the end of the event the participants were able to identify local fish species with the help of field guide provided by WII. Overall, the event was helpful in raising the interest among the frontline forest staff on the importance of aquatic fauna, river health and riparian vegetation.