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Unmesh Katwate & Rupesh Raut Bombay Natural History Society (BNHS) Department of Zoology, Elphinstone College, Mumbai Project context Western Ghats harbor 65% endemic freshwater fish species of the total 290 species (Dahanukar et. al. 2011). As per Molur et. al. 2011, 50% of fish fauna is threatened. Poor knowledge of taxonomy, ecology, distribution and population status are major impediments in designing conservation strategies (Molur et. al. 2011). Description of several new species in past years (Bhoite et al. 2012, Britz et al. 2012a, Britz et al. 2012b, Krishnakumar et al. 2011). Rivers of northern Western Ghats are relatively less explored. Present proposal aims to systematically asses status of freshwater fishes in 6 west flowing rivers of Sahyadri- Konkan corridor in Raigad District (17051’–19080’N & 72051’–73040’E). Project objectives To Fill gaps in knowledge on diversity and distribution of freshwater fishes in the Sahyadri-Konkan corridor. To map the distribution of threatened fish species, their critical habitats and prioritising important freshwater areas for conservation. To involve local communities in field surveys, education and conservation and thereby build local capacity for long term conservation. To estimate impact of anthropogenic stressors on the fish fauna of the region. Contributions towards CEPF investment strategy Proposed project directly relevant to the Strategic Direction 2 of the Ecosystem Profile . Specifically relates to Investment Priority 2.1. The primary research (field work) to assess the diversity, distribution and population of freshwater fishes will be carried out in the Sahyadri- Konkan Corridors of Raigad District in Northern Western Ghats. The research will take place in 6 river systems of Raigad District, of which certain areas cover part of CEPF investment priority site like Koyna Wildlife Sanctuary within the Sahyadri-Konkan Corridor, identified in the Western Ghats Ecosystem Profile. R1 R2 R3 R4 R5 R6 Study sites (R1, R2, R3…..R6) CEPF IP sites Proposed Activities June 2013- January 2015 Field surveys divided in 3 phases, each have 6 months I- Mandad & Savitri, II- Amba & Kundalika, III- Patalganga & Bhogawati hydro basins Sampling site selection- altitude, stream order & microhabitat Capacity building Non-invasive fishing surveys (Diurnal & nocturnal) Species identification- wherever possible in the field and released back in the same habitat. Potentially new and those falling within cryptic species complex will be preserved and transferred to the laboratory for further study. Biological and physical habitat parameters estimation. Data analysis, mapping of critical fish habitats based on species diversity, distribution, endemism, global threat status, occurrence of anthropogenic stressors, extant population of threatened species and spread of alien fish species. Community involvement Tribal communities- Katkari & Thakar Katkari- Mostly depend on fishing and forest resources Tribal involvement in field surveys and other education activities Daily fishing efforts of local fishermen across study areas will also considered as valid fishing attempt. Secondary data collection through questionnaires. Awareness and education campaigns regarding freshwater fish conservation will also be carried out at schools and fishing community settlements Community participants like field assistants will be benefited by daily wedges. Exotic species catch will be removed completely and will be handed over to local people for consumption. Impacts envisaged Baseline information on the diversity and distribution of freshwater fishes in rivers of the Konkan region within the Sahyadri-Konkan Corridor. Improved knowledge and understanding of the distribution pattern of freshwater fish species with respect to various environmental factors. Identification and prioritisation of threatened species as well as critical habitats for long term conservation action, including updating IUCN Red List of threatened species. Traditional knowledge of local fishing communities and its application in setting conservation priorities. Network establishment and strengthening community involvement through workshops and institutional collaborations with IUCN- ZOO and ATREE. Linkages to other CEPF projects Conservation of Critical Freshwater Fish Habitats in the Southern Western Ghats- Navdarsan Public Charitable Trust- AZE Site approach Western Ghats Portal: Towards Consolidation and Sustainability- French Institute of Pondicherry Thank You