Journal of Biodiversity & Endangered Species

The diversity and abundance of fish species in Ekpene Ukpa River were studied from July-October, 2020. Sampling was by direct observation of the fish species at the sampling sites following landing by fishermen. Frequency, counts, and percentages were employed to determine the fish species composition and abundance, while a Microsoft Excel 2003 based program was used to determine the ecological indices. A total of 84 species belonging to seven (7) families were recorded. The most abundant grouping of fish species was Chrysichthys auratus with 25.0% and the least in abundance were Pellonula leonensis and Trachinotus teraia with 1.19%, respectively. The Index of Preponderance (IP) value of 0.06 was recorded for Chrysichthys auratus which makes this species very significant in the study site. The study revealed that species richness and diversity was high in October. An inclusive management approach is recommended, such as educational awareness, involving of the local contents, and comprehensive rational planning on the management and development of the study site.

The term "biodiversity" refers to the variety of living things found in all habitats, including terrestrial, marine, and other aquatic ecosystems, as well as the ecological complexes to which they are a part. This encompasses diversity within and between species as well as that of ecosystems. It serves as the basis for all life on Earth. The International Union for the Conservation of Nature Each species fills a particular ecological niche and serves a certain purpose in an ecosystem. These functions include the capture and storage of energy, the provision of food, predation, the breakdown of organic matter, the cycling of water and nutrients, the control of erosion, the management of pests, and the regulation of the climate. Through a multitude of processes, including improving soil fertility, pollination, plant growth, predation, and waste breakdown, species assist biological production and regulation across the food chain. An ecosystem's stability, productivity, and ability to tolerate environmental stress all increase with its level of diversity. The maintenance of the natural ecosystems on which people and all other species are dependent depends on biodiversity. Humans and the variety of human cultures are considered to be an element of biodiversity by the Center for Biodiversity and Conservation. We use the term "biocultural" to explain how people and places are dynamic, always changing, interconnected, and have both social and biological elements. This idea acknowledges the influence of human behaviour, knowledge, and beliefs on natural systems, of which human societies are a part. This connection makes all biodiversity-including species, landscapes, and cultural ties to the places we inhabit, whether nearby or in other countries-important to our wellbeing since they all contribute to preserving a planet that is diverse and healthy [1].