Anthropogenic Stress and Its Impact on Ecological Status of Indigenous Small Fishes (ISFs) of the Tropical Floodplain Wetlands and Their Sustainable Management and Conservation

Indigenous small fishes are an easily digestible food source of animal protein and provide excellent dietary advantages. From their high protein content to the abundance of micronutrients, vitamins, and minerals crucial for human metabolic activities, these tiny fishes provide a valuable source of nourishment. Increased consumption of SIFs could lower the micronutrient deficiencies. Floodplain wetlands particularly of lower reaches of Brahmaputra are indispensable resources and provide natural habitat for small indigenous species, being used effectively by many rural communities to fisherfolk’s livelihood and nutritional security for rural communities. With this context, the present assessment was designed to appraise the production pattern of the three selected floodplain wetlands of lower reaches of Brahmaputra. This communication elucidates the impact of anthropogenic stress on indigenous small fish in three wetlands, namely, Hasila, Kumri, and Urpod, during the period 2022–2023. A total of 40 indigenous small fish species under 4 orders, 13 families, and 25 genera were recorded from 3 wetlands. Cypriniformes order contributed the highest (47.5%) with 4 families and 14 genera, in which Cyprinidae family alone contributed (37.5%) with 15 species. Proper enactment of fishing rules and regulations, banning the use of unauthorized fishing gears, and promoting public awareness campaigns can play an enormous imitation in enhancing the conservation of ISF diversity.