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International Journal of Fisheries and Aquatic Studies
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P-ISSN: 2394-0506, E-ISSN: 2347-5129

International Journal of Fisheries and Aquatic Studies

2019, Vol. 7, Issue 1, Part B

Diversity and spatial variation of benthic macroinvertebrates in the River Gambia estuary, West Africa


Author(s): Ceesay Adam, Konan Yao Aristide, Njie Ebrima and Koné Tidiani

Abstract: This paper aims to reveal the organization of and environmental variables affecting the spatial distribution of benthic macroinvertebrates in the River Gambia estuary. Macroinvertebrates were recorded at 3 stations across the River Gambia estuary corresponding to upstream, midstream and downstream stations i.e. Tendaba, Abuko and Wencho respectively. Macroinvertebrates were sampled during the dry season using a Van Veen grab. A total of 17 taxa distributed among 15 families and 9 orders belonging to annelids (Oligochaeta and Polychaeta), mollusks, crustaceans and insects were collected. Crustaceans represented 81% of the taxonomic richness qualitatively. Taxonomic group abundances show that Oligochaeta and Polycheata (Annelids) dominate the faunal abundance and constitute 60% and 20% of the total macroinvertebrates respectively. Benthic macroinvertebrate community composition was different between upstream, midstream and downstream stations. Salinity gradient is the most influential environmental variable in structuring benthic macroinvertebrate communities in the River Gambia estuary.

Pages: 83-88  |  1035 Views  282 Downloads

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International Journal of Fisheries and Aquatic Studies
How to cite this article:
Ceesay Adam, Konan Yao Aristide, Njie Ebrima, Koné Tidiani. Diversity and spatial variation of benthic macroinvertebrates in the River Gambia estuary, West Africa. Int J Fish Aquat Stud 2019;7(1):83-88.
International Journal of Fisheries and Aquatic Studies

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