Qualitative and quantitative analysis of fish population in Valsad district

The study aims to assess the qualitative and quantitative aspects of ichtyofauna populations in the Valsad district, focusing on species diversity, abundance, and ecological significance. Data collection was conducted through field surveys, sampling, and interviews with local fishers, covering the coastal ecosystems. Qualitative analysis involved the Taxonomic richness and diversity of ichthyofauna population. It revealed that 31 taxa were identified, divided into 28 families, 16 orders, 4 classes (Actinopterygii, Malacostraca, Cephalopoda, and Gastropoda), and 3 phyla (Chordata, Mollusca, and Arthropoda). The quantitative approach included population density estimation, the relative abundance. It showed that 197 species or 100 % of ichtyofauna was recorded at Valsad station and the most dominant species is Brama Brama with 22%.