Conservation Strategies of The IUCN Red List of Threatened Species, Pethia manipurensis, A Freshwater Fish Species Endemic to Loktak Lake, Manipur, India

Dr. Ajit Kumar Ngangbam / Dr. Bijayalakshmi Devi Nongmaithem *

Corresponding authors:

1. Dr. Ajit Kumar Ng,
Assoc. Prof., and Dean,
School of Biological Sciences,
Manipur International University, Imphal-795140
(Young Scientist Award, SERB, Govt. of India;
Erasmus Mundus Fellows-European Union;
PhD, Post Doc Fellow-SCU, NSW, Australia);
Email- ajitkumarng83(AT)gmail(DOT)com

2. Dr. Bijayalakshmi Devi Nongmaithem,
Principal Investigator, Women Scientist B,
Department of Science and Technology, Government of India,
Manipur University, Imphal – 795003
(Erasmus Mundus Fellows-European Union;
PhD, Post Doc Fellow-Australia,
Analytical Officer, ARL, Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA) Approved Lab., Australian Government);
Email- nbijayalakshmi(AT)gmail(DOT)com

Manipur, a picturesque landlocked region located in the northeastern corner of India, is home to various endemic species with diverse ecosystems. The ecological importance of this region at the global stage can be vouch from the fact that the region lies within the Indo-Burma mega-biodiversity hotspot and it is a home to various endemic flora and fauna.

Among all the ecological treasures of Manipur, Loktak Lake (Ramsar site no. 463) which is the largest freshwater lake in northeast India constitute a profound place. It is known for its floating phumdis and rich aquatic life.

The water quality of Loktak Lake was reported to deteriorate mainly due to eutrophication and siltation thereby resulting in the habitat loss of the fishes. These changes have placed significant pressure on many fish species, including Pethia manipurensis (Local name - Ngakha), a small freshwater fish native to the Loktak Lake of Manipur.

A Critical Call for Conservation

Once, Pethia manipurensis was known to be abundant in Loktak Lake, but currently, it is listed as endangered on the IUCN Red List of Threatened Species. The major reason for its population decline is the habitat loss, water pollution, and anthropogenic influences. As a key element of freshwater biodiversity, this fish plays a vital role in the nutrient cycle, biodiversity, and ecological health of the lake.

Elimination of such species would not solely endanger the quality of aquatic environments of the lake but potentially impair the economies and way of life of people who depends on these ecosystems. Thereafter, appropriate conservation measures must be taken to protect the species.

Medicinal Potential of Pethia manipurensis

Pethia manipurensis presents a wealth of promise in traditional medicine based on our preliminary research. At present, our team at Manipur International University, Imphal is undertaking detailed chemical profiling of the species by employing Liquid Chromatography-Mass Spectrometry (LC-MS) and Gas Chromatography-Mass Spectrometry (GC-MS).

Such preliminary work has already revealed the presence of some bioactive compounds that have been known to have medicinal value supporting the traditional claims. This feature accompanied with the fact that these fishes are highly endangered, stresses the need for preserving the species and exploiting it for biomedical and pharmaceutical purposes.

Thus, the conservation of Pethia manipurensis represents the conservation of an unexploited potential source for new medicines. These could also serve as a potential resource for functional food development. Thus, making it worthwhile to undertake various conservation approach for the generations to come.

Conservation Strategies for Pethia manipurensis

1. Scientific Research

Specific studies on the population status, distribution and habitat requirement of Pethia manipurensis are very important. Such studies will give adequate information for targeted conservation plans, as well as monitor the response of the species to changing environments.

2. Habitat Restoration

Pethia manipurensis population within the aquatic Loktak Lake is also under threat due to the changes in the ecological and environmental balance of the Lake. Therefore, strategies for monitoring and controlling the siltation process, reducing nutrient pollution, and improving water quality in Loktak Lake are crucial for maintaining the ecological balance and supporting other species that depend on the lake.

3. Captive Breeding Programs

Replenishing Pethia manipurensis's declining population could be achieved through breeding in captivity. By raising these fishes in controlled surroundings and releasing them in the wild, the number of Pethia manipurensis in nature could be increase while maintaining genetic diversity.

4. Promotion as Ornamental Fish

Compared to other ornamental fishes, Pethia manipurensis is less used and highlighted. Advocating for increased involvement of local communities in the ornamental fish trade provides an opportunity to find income, while also support the conservation of Pethia manipurensis.

However, if such trade are being initiated then precautionary measures should be focus on ensuring sustainable trade practices to reduce population pressure. The above listed approach are focusing to integrate species conservation in Loktak Lake along with restoring good Lake practices, creating means of sustainable employment, and highlighting the economic benefits of the species provide a comprehensive way to conserve the species.

These needs to be address and implement simultaneously in a larger scale to uplift the population status of Pethia manipurensis from being endangered. These approaches will also help address ecological and socio-economic issues.

Conclusion

The case of Pethia manipurensis illustrates the vulnerability of biodiversity in the face of anthropogenic factors. Loktak Lake, an important habitat for this endemic fish, requires urgent human intervention to combat habitat degradation and ensure the sustainability of its resources.

The needs of the Pethia manipurensis conservation are more complex than just protecting the health of the fish; this is a call for wider holistic ecosystem management, integration of benefactors, as well as strengthened protection of natural resources.

The strategic and scientific approach to ecosystem restoration and the development of a collaborating community will make it possible to protect Pethia manipurensis, setting new standards for conservation practice.

Its preservation would not only ensure survival of an important species and increased investment in biodiversity, but also contribute to avenues for functional food advancements more effective and a healthier place for future generations.