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FISH FAUNA COMPOSITION AND WATER QUALITY AT BATANG AI HYDROELECTRIC RESERVOIR, LUBOKANTU, SARAWAK Nur Ezzaty Binti Nazarudin (37924) Bachelor of Science with Honours TD (Aquatic Resource Science and Management) 370 2015 N974 2015

FISH FAUNA COMPOSITION AND WATER QUALITY AT BATANG … Fauna Composition... · The fisheries production of Batang Ai Hydroelectric Reservoir was estimated to be 1'1.17 kg ha -I :

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Page 1: FISH FAUNA COMPOSITION AND WATER QUALITY AT BATANG … Fauna Composition... · The fisheries production of Batang Ai Hydroelectric Reservoir was estimated to be 1'1.17 kg ha -I :

FISH FAUNA COMPOSITION AND WATER QUALITY AT BATANG AI HYDROELECTRIC RESERVOIR LUBOKANTU SARAWAK

bull Nur Ezzaty Binti Nazarudin

(37924)

Bachelor of Science with Honours TD (Aquatic Resource Science and Management) 370 2015 N974 2015

UNIVERSITI MALAYSIA SARAWAK

Grade _-----P-___

Please tick (-V)

Final Year Project Report 0 ~asters c===J PhD c===J

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not copied from any other students work or from any other sources with the exception where due 1 ~ reference or acknowledgement is made explicitly in the text nor has any part of the work been written for me by another person

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usAf Kill mat Makluma Ak demi~ NIV SIT M LAYS A SAR WAK

FISH FAUNA COMPOSITION AND WATER QUALITY AT BATANG AI

HYDROELECTRIC RESERVOIR LUBOK ANTU SARA W AK

Nur Ezzaty binti Nazarudin (37924)

This project is submitted in partial fulfilment of the requirement for degree of Bachelor of

Science with Honours

(Aquatic Resources Science Management)

Faculty of Resources Science and Technology

UNIVERSITY MALAYSIA SARAWAK

2015

I

DECLARAnON

I Nur Ezzaty binti Nazarudin final year student of Aquatic Resource Science and

Management hereby declare that this report is my own work and effort with guidance of

my supervisor Prof Dr Lee Nyanti No part of this report has previously been submitted

for any other degree university or institution of higher learning

g (NUR EZZATY NAZARUDIN)

Aquatic Resource Science and Management

Faculty of Resource Science and Technology

The project entitled Fish Fauna Composition and Water Quality at Batang Ai

Hydroelectric Reservoir Lubok Antu Sarawak was prepared by Nur Ezzaty binti

Nazarudin and submitted to the Faculty of Resources Science and Technology in partial

fulfilment of the requirements for the Degree of Bachelor (Honours) in Aquatic Science

and Management

Received for examination by

( )

Date

111

)

Acknowledgement

I am so grateful to be able to finish up this project I would like to specially thank my

dearest supervisor Professor Dr Lee Nyanti on the guidance support and assistance I also

would like to convey special thanks to my family especially my dearest father and mother

for the moral support and encouragement given I would like to express special gratitude to

my project-mate Noor Iskandar Noor Azhar for his assistance during the field trip and

your continuous support in my thesis writing Thanks to my fellow coursemates who had

experienced difficulties together including staying in the lab overnight and also thanks to

my peers under the same supervisor Daniel Nakhaie Juliana Kirollina Jane Goh and

Fakharudin for their valuable advice I am also thankful for the support of the Faculty of

Resources Science and Technology and the help provided by the laboratory assistants of

the Department of Aquatic Science especially Mr Zaidi Mr Mohd Nor Azlan Mr

Richard Toh Mr Nasri Latib and Mr Mustapha Kamal Last but not least I am also

thankful to SALCRA especially Mr Raymond and Ms Umi for the assistance given The

financial support provided by Sarawak Energy Berhad through the research grant no

GL(F07)SEBSA20 13 (28) is gratefully acknowledged

IV

rem K i mat Mak lImat Akadem ik WAK

Table of Content

Title amp Front Cover

Declaration 11

Acknowledgement IV

Table of Contents v

List of Abbreviations V11

List of Figures viii

List of Tables IX

List of Appendices x

Abstract

10 Introduction 2 20 Literature Review 4

21 Reservoir 4

22 Threats to Malaysian reservoir 4

23 Damming 5

24 Fish inventory in Batang Ai National Park 5 30 Materials and Methods 6

31 Study Site 6

32 Sample Collection 7

33 Sample Preservation 8

34 Sample Identification 8

35 Stomach Content Collection Preservation and Identification 8

36 In-situ Parameters 9

37 Ex-situ Parameters 9

371 Five-Day Biochemical Oxygen Demand 9

312 Total Suspended Solids (TSS~ 10

373 Chlorophyll-a analysis 11 374 Nitrate-N 12 375 Nitrite-N 13 376 Ammonia-N 13 377 Orthophosphate 14

38 Indices 14

381 Shannon - Weiners Diversity Index 14

382 Margaejs Species Richness Index 15

v

383 Pieou s Evenness Index 15 384 Length-weight Relationship and Condition Factor 15

39 Statistical Analysis 16 40 Results 17

41 Fish fauna composition 17 42 In-situ parameter 18

421

422

423

424

415

416

Transparency 18 Temperature 19 pH 20 Dissolved oxygen 21 Turbidity 22 Conductivity 23

43 Ex-situ parameter 24 43 1 Biological oxygen demand (BODs) 24 43 2 Total suspended solids (TSS) 25 433 Chlorophyll-a 26 434 Nitrate 27 435 Nitrite 28 436 Ammonia 29 43 7 Orthophosphate 30

44 Length-weight relationship 31 45 Species Diversity Richness and Evennes 33 46 The stomach content and frequency of occurrence 33

50 Discussion 35 60 Summary 42 70 References 43 80 Appendices 50

VI

J-

degC

J-lm

BOD

BANP

BAHR

D

DO

J-lm

GSI

H

HSI

J

km

LEWS

m

mgL

mm

N

N02shy

N03shy

TSS

LIST OF ABBREVIATION

Degree Ce1cius

Micrometer

Biochemical Oxygen Demand

Batang Ai National Park

Batang Ai Hydroelectric Reservoir

Margalefs Species Richness Index

Dissolved Oxygen

Microsiemen

Gonadosomatic Index

Shannon - Weiner s Diversity Index

Hepatosomatic Index

Pie lou s Evenness Index middot

Kilometer

Lanjak Entimau Wildlife Sanctuary

meter

milligram per litre

millimetre

Nitrogen

Nitrite

Nitrate

Total Suspended Solids

VB

Figures

Figure 1

Figure 2

Figure 3

Figure 4

Figure 5

Figure 6

Figure 7

Figure 8

Figure 9

Figure 10

Figure 11

Figure 12

Figure 13

Figure 14

Figure 15

Figure 16

LIST OF FIGURES

Title

The location of sampling stations at Batang Ai

Reservoir Dam Sarawak (Source Google Earth 2014)

Percentage of family caught in Batang Ai Reservoir

Comparisons of transparency among stations

Comparisons of temperature among depths

Comparisons of pH among depths

Comparisons of dissolved oxygen among depths

Comparisons of turbidity among depths

Comparisons of conductivity among depths

Comparisons ofBOD5 among depths

Comparisons of mean T~S among depths

Comparisons of mean Chl-a among depths

Comparisons of nitrate among depths

Comparisons of nitrite among depths

Comparisons of ammonia among depths

Comparisons of orthophosphate among depths

Length-weight relationship for the three fish species

Pages

6

17

19

20

21

22

23

24

25

26

27

28

29

30

31

32

Vlll I

Tables

Table 1

Table 2

Table 3

Table 4

Table 5

Table 6

Table 7

LIST OF TABLES

Titles Pages

Coordinates and locations of sampling stations 6

Fishing methods and habitat description 7

Species composition of fish caught at Batang Ai reservoir 18

Length-weight relationship and condition factor (K) for the 31

three dominant species

Species Diversity Species Richness and Species Evenness in 33

Batang Ai Reservoir

Stomach content and frequency of occurrence for the three 34

dominant species

Results of mass method for the three dominant species 34

IX

J

LIST OF APPENDICES

Appendix Titles Pages

Appendix 1 Vegetation that was not removed during impoundment 50

Appendix 2 Logging activity at the upstream of Batang Ai Bydroshy 50

electric Reservoir

Appendix 3 Cage culture activity 51

Appendix 4 Mass growing of rooted aquatic plant 51

x

Fish Fauna Composition and Water Quality at Batang Ai Hydroelectric Reservoir

Lubok Antu Sarawak

Nur Ezzaty binti Nazarudin

Science and Aquatic Resources Management

Faculty of Resources Science and Technology

University Malaysia Sarawak

ABSTRACT

This study was carried out in October 2014 and February 2015 to determine the fish species composition and

water quality at Batang Ai Hydroelectric reservoir area A total of six sampling stations were selected in this

tudy Fourteen water quality parameters were documented based on in-situ and ex-situ laboratory analysis that

were carried out according to the APHA (2000) methods A total of 992 individuals consisting of 20 species

from 8 families were caught in Batang Ai Hydro-electric reservoir The three most dominant species were

Cyclocheilichti1ys apogon Osteochilus wandersii and Barbonymus schwanenfeldii Results for in-situ water

qual ity parameters were pH (622-832) dissolved oxygen (07-83 mglL) conductivity (63-1207 -IScm)

temperature (263-31 3 degC) transparency (1 02-427 m) and turbidity (000-3466 FNU) For ex-situ water

quality parameters results of BODs ranged from 07-63 mgL TSS (0002-0043 giL) chlorophyll-a (170 to

3585 mglL) and for nutrients (ammonical nitrogen 003 to 253 mglL nitrate 001 to 021 mgL

orthophosphate 002 to 204 mgL and Nitrite 0001 to 0117 mgL) The fisheries production of Batang Ai

Hydroelectric Reservoir was estimated to be 1117 kg ha -I yr- I to 2067 kg ha-I yr- I Aquaculture and other

anthropogenic activities occurring within the surrounding areas of the reservoir may have negatively impacted

the water quality of Batang Ai Hydro-electric reservoir

ABSTRAK

Kajian telah dijalankan pada bulan Oktober 2014 dan Februari 2015 untuk menentukan komposisi spesies ikan

dan kualiti air di kawasan Empangan Hidro-elektrik Satang Ai Enam stesen pensampelan telah dipilih dalam

kajian ini Empatbelas parameter kualiti air telah didokumentasikan berdasarkan penganalissan in-situ dan exshysitll pen ampelan dengan mengikuti cara APHA (2000) Sebanyak 992 ekor ikan telah ditangkap terdiri daripada

20 spesies daripada 8 famili di Empangan Hidro-elektrik Satang Ai Tiga spesies dominan adalah

Cycocheilichlhys apoeon Osteochilus wandersii and Barbonymus schwanenfeldii Hasil kajian in-situ adalah

pH (622-832) oksigen terlarut (07-83 mglL) konduktiviti (63-1207 -IScm) suhu (263-313 degC) kejemihan

(102-427 m) dan kekeruhan (000-3466 FNU) Untuk kajian ex-situ hasil kajian untuk SODs adalah 07-63 mglL TSS (0002-0043 gil) klorofil-a (1 70 to 3585 mglL) dan untuk nutrien (ammonical nitrogen 003 to

253 mgL nitrat 001 to 021 mglL orthofosfat 002 to 204 mgL and nitrit 0001 to 0117 mgL) Produksi

ikan oleh Empangan Hidro-elektrik Batang Ai dianggarkan 1117 kg ha- I yr- I kepada 2067 kg ha- I yr- I

Akuakultur dan aktiviti lain berpunca daripada kegiatan manusia yang berlaku di sekeliling kawasan empangan

telah memberi kesan negatif kepada Empangan Hidro-elektrik Satang Ai

1

10 Introduction

Dams and reservoir have been designed for multiple purposes such as for irrigation

water supply tourism purposes aquaculture site and cage culture (Nyanti et al 2012)

Morley (2007) stated that due to high worldwide demand for water the creation of reservoirs

are unavoidable However this water body could also be polluted due to anthropogenic

activities A study in three biggest natural lakes in Malaysia showed that different levels of

degradation occurred due to discharged oil from motorboat untreated sewage from

communities and nearby plantations (Sharip and Zakaria 2008)

Batang Ai Hydroelectric Reservoir (BAHR) was impounded in 19851t is located 260

km from Kuching and has a surface area of 84 ha at full supply with catchment area of 1200

km~ BAHR receives inflow water from two main rivers which are Batang Ai and the Engkari

River

Malaysia has a variety of freshwater fish speCIes rangmg from dominant to rare

species A study by Chong et al (2010) stated that Malaysia has approximately 521 species

of freshwater fish A total of 63 species of fish is present in Batang Ai National Park

(Abdullah 2004) Freshwater fish is very important in several aspects that involves aquatic

ecosystem for example as the indicator for the water quality (Fausch et al 1990) and nutrient

status of the surrounding water (Hamid et al 2012)

Reseaf(~h in freshwater fisheries in Malaysia were gIven little attention when

compared to the marine fisheries This resulted in fewer information on total catch landings

and on consumption of the fishes (Salam and Gopinath 2006) Very little information on fish

fauna composition and total catch landings in BAHR have been documented According to

Jalal et al (2012) due to the damming the decline in fish community and fisheries are caused

by factors such as overexploitation of species pollution and changes in the environment The

production of fisheries depends on many factors such as cost season and types of fishing gear

2

used Abu Talib et al (2003) stated that fisheries in reservoir is done individually or in a

small group by using seine net trap as well as hook and line

The composition richness evenness and diversity were measured in order to

document the fish fauna composition at the BAHR The stomach contents of fish were

analyzed to study the feeding habits of three dominant species in BAHR The water quality

analysis were also conducted at three different areas

The objectives of this study were to

1 Document the current fish species composition and total catch of commercial fisheries

at Batang Ai Hydroelectric Reservoir

2 Determine the length-weight relationship and feeding behaviour of the dominant

species and

3 Document the water quality at selected stations

20 Literature Review

21 Reservoir

According to Thornton et al (1992) a reservoir is any natural water that has been

modified or managed to provide water for developing human activities and demands in

response to specific community needs It is often called impoundments with subsequent

inundation of the upstream land surface formed by a dam across a river The upper part of the

reservoir has a similar characteristics with the river due to the inflow of water from the river

while the lower part of the reservoir is very similar to the lake because of its stratification

(Holmgren amp Appelberg 2000)

The construction of hydroelectric dams reservoirs and artificial lakes in Malaysia

leads to destruction of the surrounding ecosystem It will affect the aquatic environment

water quality and composition of fishes Diversions from the construction of the dam will

cause big changes in topology and morphology of the river Study on water quality at Bera

Lake shows that water quality was highly ~ffected by the run-off from the nearby plantation

sewage from the communities around the lake and discharged oil from motorboats (Chong

2007) According to Fatimah et al (2002) strong thermal stratification occur in Kenyir Lake

throughout the year during both dry and wet season A study by Chong (2007) showed that

Bera Lake has high presence of nutrient

22 Threats tomiddotMalaysian reservoir

Fish communities in reservoir are facing many environmental manipulations and

degradations such as water management and fluctuation homesteading and ririparian land

development (Ali and Lee 1995) It will affect the aquatic environment water quality and the

composition of fishes Diversions from the construction of the dam will cause big changes in

topology and morphology of the river The main environmental factor that influence fish

distribution are the concentration of oxygen width depth and leaves-dead wood substrates

Pusat Khid~at M~klumat Akademik UNIVERSITI MALAYSIA SARAWAK

(Kouamelan et al 2003) The most crucial threat is over-fishing which will disturb the

nature of the fish its habitat and lower its biodiversity

23 Damming

According to Friedl amp Wiiest (2001) 800 000 artificial lakes and reservoirs have been

built which is equivalent to approximately 500 000 km2 of the land or is almost 3 of the

entire land surface on the earth Damming of rivers is truly important to sustain the

anthropogenic need such as for drinking washing other daily and industrial uses According

to Yusoff et al (2006) the water demand in Malaysia for both domestic and industrial uses

are increasing significantly from 26 billion m3 in 1990 to 37 billion m3 in 2000 Without

enough water supplies it will cause problems to daily routine for the community and

damming is the easiest way to solve it Hence they are 54 dams operated in Malaysia with the

total capacity of 12 biIlion m3year to cover the demand (Yusoff et at 2006) The purpose of

Batang Ai reservoir was for hydroelectric generation and it is also important sources of

energy producer for the Sarawak Corridor Additionally it is also act as important aquaculture

site (Ling et al 2013)

24 Fish inventory in Batang Ai National Park

Commercial fisheries play an important roles in the lives of fishing communities in

Malaysia Ali and Lee (1995) stated that commercial fish plays an important role In

Chenderoh Bukit Merah and Temenggor reservoirs the fish composition consisted of catfish

(Mystus sp) snakeheads (Channa micropeltis) cyprinids (Hampala macrolepidota Tor

tambroides Puntius bulu) Osphronemus gouramy and other species (Baluyut 1999 DOF

1998)

In Batang Ai National Park a total of 26 species from 9 families was reported by

Abdullah (2004) In addition to the earlier study done by Meredith (1993) a total of 63

species were reportedly present in Batang Ai National Park The dominant family IS

Cyprinidae followed by Ballitoridae (Abdullah 2004)

30 Materials and Methods

31 Study Site

This study was conducted at Batang Ai Hydroelectric Reservoir Six stations were

selected for water quality data collection Three stations were at the tributaries of the reservoir

and three stations were at the cage culture area (Figure 1) The coordinates for each station

was recorded using the Global Positioning System (GPS) (Gannin GPSmap 628) (Table 1)

Figure 1 The location of sampling stations at Batang Ai Reservoir Dam Sarawak (Source

Google Earth 2015)

6

Table 1 Coordinates and locations of sampling stations

Station Coordinates Locations

1 N 01 0 14 482 E 1120 02 140 Delok

2 NOlo 13033 E 111 0 58587 Telaus

3 NOlo 11155 E 111 0 52 102 Sungai Bungui

4 N 01 0 09 223 E 111 0 50 291 At the edge of the reservoir

5 NOl o 09 330 E 111 0 50 384 Near Tiang Laju cage culture

6 N 01 0 10 060 E 111 0 54 430 Kerangan Mong

32 Sample Collection

Several types of net that were used for fish collection were gill net with different mesh

sizes (254 cm 508 cm 1016 cm and 127 cm) and three-layered gill net (14 cm 4 cm and

14 cm) Sampling procedures were similar for every station where the nets was left overnight

before being retrieved the next day and habitat description were also noted for every station

(Table 2)

Table 2 Fishing methods and habitat description

Stations Fishing methods Habitat description

Three-layered net gill net

2 Three-layered net gill net

3 Three-layered net gin net

4 Three-layered net gill net

5 Three-layered net gill net

6 Three-layered net gill net

Lowest water level Hill paddy season

already burned near to logging site

At the edge of reservoir

Near to Able Asia cage culture

Greenish water 1200 cage at mouth of

this area

At the edge of reservoir

At the edge of reservoir

At the edge of reservoir

33 Sample Preservation

Fish samples was preserved in the field by using 10 formalin and was left for

approximately 72 hours before the samples were rinsed and soaked in tap water for ten

minutes and transferred into 70 ethanol for further laboratory analysis and preservation

purposes

34 Sample Identification

Fish samples was identified by using the taxonomy keys from Mohsin amp Ambak

(1991) Inger amp Chin (2002) Kottelat et al (1993) and FishBase

(httpfishbaseorgsearchphp) After the sample identification the fish was weighed by

using Shimadzu EDLB300 portable balance The total length and standard length were also

measured by using a ruler The total length is the measurement from the tip of the mouth to

the end of tail while the standard length is the measurement from the tip of the mouth to the

end of fleshy caudal peduncle (Kotelat et al 1993) After the whole process of sample

identification all of the samples were grouped together according to their species Fish

samples were kept in specimen bottles that were labelled with station number coordinates and

date of sampling

35 Stomach Content

Thirty individuals from three dominant species were selected for stomach content

analysis The stomach was weighed by using balance (Shimadzu ELB 300) after was

dissected from the fish The stomach was then preserved in 5 formalin In the laboratory

the stomach was placed in petri dish dissected by using dissecting kit (Gold cross) and the

content was analyzed under stereomicroscope (Olympus SZ51) The content was sorted

according to their type and each type of the food was weighed Other information such as the

empty mass of the stomach volume and length were recorded Stomach content then was

8

analyzed by using Frequency of Occurrence (FO) and Mass Method (MM) FO was used to

calculate the frequent types of food occur in selected species while MM was used to evaluate

the diet composition of each type of species The analysis used the following formula

Frequency of Occurrence

Nf h Dmiddot FOtS I X 100let i =

NfiSh

Mass Method

~~fiSllW 611 IJDiet 112 = x 100 E tlShW

J=l J

36 In-situ Parameters Collection

In-situ physico-chemical water quality parameters such as pH temperature dissolved

oxygen and turbidity was recorded in triplicate at three different depths In additions water

depth and transparency was also recorded ~n triplicate

The depth was recorded by using depth finder (Speedtech Instruments 67505) The pH

was recorded by using pH meter (Eutech Instruments) DO and temperature by using DO

meter (Sper Scientific 850041) and water transparency was recorded by using Secchi Disc

(KAHLSICO No 281 W A 1088 W AP - 4669) Water turbidity was determined by using

MARTINI instrument (Mi 415)

37 Ex-situ Parameters

371 Five-Day Biochemical Oxygen Demand (BODs)

Water samples at each station was collected by using a Van Dorn water sampler in

triplicates at three depthssub-surface layer (02 m) mid layer (10m) and bottom layer (20

m) They were placed in 1 L of acid washed polyethylene bottles and stored in cooler boxes

before being transported to laboratory for analyses According to APHA (2000) BOD5 test

was done at day 5 Initial DO reading was measured at the sampling site and the water sample

was transferred into 300 ml BOD glass bottle The bottle was wrapped with aluminium foil to

prevent penetration of sunlight and photosynthesis process They were then wrapped with

newspaper to prevent from being broken during transportation The samples were left in a

cooler box for 5 days After 5 days the final DO reading was determined using DO meter

(Sper Scientific 850041) The BOD5 value was determined by using the formula

BOD5 (mglL) = (DO 1 - 005)

where

0 0 1== dissolved oxygen of sample at day 1 (mgL)

DOs == dissolved oxygen after 5 days incubation at 20middotC (mgL)

372 Total Suspended Solids (TSS)

Total suspended analysis was divided into two parts which were pre-fieldtrip sampling

method and post-sampling fieldtrip method For pre-field trip sampling method filter paper

was prepared Glass fibre filter papers (GFIC 47 mm diameter 045 )lm membrane) was

rinsed with di tilled water placed on a piece of aluminium paper and left overnight at 103shy

105 OC in the oven The next day the filter paper that was left to cool in the desiccator before

the initial weight were weighed by using electronic balance For post-field trip sampling

method filtrat iOn process was carried out by usin~ vacuum filtration Water samples at each

station were collected by using a Van Dorn water sampler in triplicates at three depths of subshy

surface layer (02 m) mid layer (10 m) and bottom layer (20 m) A volume of water sample

(shaken well) was poured into the filter funnel Once all of the water has been drained out

filter paper was removed from the filtration funnel and placed into the aluminium foil The

filter paper then was dried in oven at 103-105 degC for 2 hours (APHA 2000) The filter paper

was taken out and allowed to cool before it was weighed again The drying process was

continued until a constant weight was achieved The amount of TSS was determined by using

the fonnula

TSS (mgl) = final weight (mg) - initial weight (mg) volume of water (1000 ml)

373 Cbloropbyll-a analysis

One litre water sample was filtered by using vacuum pump in semi dark room The

filter paper containing chlorophyll-a was analyzed and grounded by using grinder for 5

minutes Then 5 to 6 mL of 90 acetone was added into each sample Samples were

transferred into capped test tube and 90 acetone was added into the test tube to make up the

10 mL volume The test tube then was wrapped with aluminium foil and placed in the

refrigerator at 4 degC for 4 to 18 hours to facilitate the complete extraction of the pigments The

liquid then was transferred into centrifuge tube and placed into centrifuge for 10 minutes

under 3000 rpm The optical density was determined by using spectrophotometer at 750 nm

664 run 647 nrn and 630 nm wavelength Extinction for each of the small turbidity blank was

corrected by subtracting 750 nm from 664nm 647 nm and 630 nm absorptions (APHA

2000) The concentration of chlorophyll-a in the extract after correction was calculated as

below

Chlorophyll-a = 1185 (E664-E750) - 154 (E647-E750) - 008 (E630-E750)

where

E = The ~bsorption in the respective wavelength

Calculation of the chlorophyll-a amount per unit volume is as follow

Chl-a (mgL) = (Ca x v) V

where

Ca =Chlorophyll concentration in lgmL

v = Volume of acetone in mL

V = Volume of sample in mL

Page 2: FISH FAUNA COMPOSITION AND WATER QUALITY AT BATANG … Fauna Composition... · The fisheries production of Batang Ai Hydroelectric Reservoir was estimated to be 1'1.17 kg ha -I :

UNIVERSITI MALAYSIA SARAWAK

Grade _-----P-___

Please tick (-V)

Final Year Project Report 0 ~asters c===J PhD c===J

DECLARATION OF ORIGINAL WORK

This declaration is made on the ~~ day of~~~~ year ~~~~

Students Declaration

I _~~___ ~_~____~~Y~~_~~__~~9_~~~~ ___~~__~~~~_~~~_~_~~___~_~_ 1li~

gt~~~~~~_~~~~~~~~l~1~_~i~_~~~~_~_~j~~~~~i~r~~~( ~ Lo~e~-

not copied from any other students work or from any other sources with the exception where due 1 ~ reference or acknowledgement is made explicitly in the text nor has any part of the work been written for me by another person

lt~rH~ ~~ ~t- ~ZUT t 1~f~ i)~ I 31q)i Date submitted Name of the student (Matric No)

SupervisorsDeclaration

yenQ~ Ota 11iW ~I~middotn I ---------------------------------------------------------- (SUPERVISOR S ~1lie~J1jertiiyen th~t traquo~~0M entitledP~~-r--~~-~r~~J~~-----It~p---~~-~~-Q~-~~IfLErWrr~arAO -~h~~~~ aforementioned or above mentioned student and was submitted to the FACULTY as a amp-AC

~ l t4~ I n ________________________________________ ~~~ Ac_________ ---------- ~Ipartialfull fulfillment for the cOlferment of o-nU

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usAf Kill mat Makluma Ak demi~ NIV SIT M LAYS A SAR WAK

FISH FAUNA COMPOSITION AND WATER QUALITY AT BATANG AI

HYDROELECTRIC RESERVOIR LUBOK ANTU SARA W AK

Nur Ezzaty binti Nazarudin (37924)

This project is submitted in partial fulfilment of the requirement for degree of Bachelor of

Science with Honours

(Aquatic Resources Science Management)

Faculty of Resources Science and Technology

UNIVERSITY MALAYSIA SARAWAK

2015

I

DECLARAnON

I Nur Ezzaty binti Nazarudin final year student of Aquatic Resource Science and

Management hereby declare that this report is my own work and effort with guidance of

my supervisor Prof Dr Lee Nyanti No part of this report has previously been submitted

for any other degree university or institution of higher learning

g (NUR EZZATY NAZARUDIN)

Aquatic Resource Science and Management

Faculty of Resource Science and Technology

The project entitled Fish Fauna Composition and Water Quality at Batang Ai

Hydroelectric Reservoir Lubok Antu Sarawak was prepared by Nur Ezzaty binti

Nazarudin and submitted to the Faculty of Resources Science and Technology in partial

fulfilment of the requirements for the Degree of Bachelor (Honours) in Aquatic Science

and Management

Received for examination by

( )

Date

111

)

Acknowledgement

I am so grateful to be able to finish up this project I would like to specially thank my

dearest supervisor Professor Dr Lee Nyanti on the guidance support and assistance I also

would like to convey special thanks to my family especially my dearest father and mother

for the moral support and encouragement given I would like to express special gratitude to

my project-mate Noor Iskandar Noor Azhar for his assistance during the field trip and

your continuous support in my thesis writing Thanks to my fellow coursemates who had

experienced difficulties together including staying in the lab overnight and also thanks to

my peers under the same supervisor Daniel Nakhaie Juliana Kirollina Jane Goh and

Fakharudin for their valuable advice I am also thankful for the support of the Faculty of

Resources Science and Technology and the help provided by the laboratory assistants of

the Department of Aquatic Science especially Mr Zaidi Mr Mohd Nor Azlan Mr

Richard Toh Mr Nasri Latib and Mr Mustapha Kamal Last but not least I am also

thankful to SALCRA especially Mr Raymond and Ms Umi for the assistance given The

financial support provided by Sarawak Energy Berhad through the research grant no

GL(F07)SEBSA20 13 (28) is gratefully acknowledged

IV

rem K i mat Mak lImat Akadem ik WAK

Table of Content

Title amp Front Cover

Declaration 11

Acknowledgement IV

Table of Contents v

List of Abbreviations V11

List of Figures viii

List of Tables IX

List of Appendices x

Abstract

10 Introduction 2 20 Literature Review 4

21 Reservoir 4

22 Threats to Malaysian reservoir 4

23 Damming 5

24 Fish inventory in Batang Ai National Park 5 30 Materials and Methods 6

31 Study Site 6

32 Sample Collection 7

33 Sample Preservation 8

34 Sample Identification 8

35 Stomach Content Collection Preservation and Identification 8

36 In-situ Parameters 9

37 Ex-situ Parameters 9

371 Five-Day Biochemical Oxygen Demand 9

312 Total Suspended Solids (TSS~ 10

373 Chlorophyll-a analysis 11 374 Nitrate-N 12 375 Nitrite-N 13 376 Ammonia-N 13 377 Orthophosphate 14

38 Indices 14

381 Shannon - Weiners Diversity Index 14

382 Margaejs Species Richness Index 15

v

383 Pieou s Evenness Index 15 384 Length-weight Relationship and Condition Factor 15

39 Statistical Analysis 16 40 Results 17

41 Fish fauna composition 17 42 In-situ parameter 18

421

422

423

424

415

416

Transparency 18 Temperature 19 pH 20 Dissolved oxygen 21 Turbidity 22 Conductivity 23

43 Ex-situ parameter 24 43 1 Biological oxygen demand (BODs) 24 43 2 Total suspended solids (TSS) 25 433 Chlorophyll-a 26 434 Nitrate 27 435 Nitrite 28 436 Ammonia 29 43 7 Orthophosphate 30

44 Length-weight relationship 31 45 Species Diversity Richness and Evennes 33 46 The stomach content and frequency of occurrence 33

50 Discussion 35 60 Summary 42 70 References 43 80 Appendices 50

VI

J-

degC

J-lm

BOD

BANP

BAHR

D

DO

J-lm

GSI

H

HSI

J

km

LEWS

m

mgL

mm

N

N02shy

N03shy

TSS

LIST OF ABBREVIATION

Degree Ce1cius

Micrometer

Biochemical Oxygen Demand

Batang Ai National Park

Batang Ai Hydroelectric Reservoir

Margalefs Species Richness Index

Dissolved Oxygen

Microsiemen

Gonadosomatic Index

Shannon - Weiner s Diversity Index

Hepatosomatic Index

Pie lou s Evenness Index middot

Kilometer

Lanjak Entimau Wildlife Sanctuary

meter

milligram per litre

millimetre

Nitrogen

Nitrite

Nitrate

Total Suspended Solids

VB

Figures

Figure 1

Figure 2

Figure 3

Figure 4

Figure 5

Figure 6

Figure 7

Figure 8

Figure 9

Figure 10

Figure 11

Figure 12

Figure 13

Figure 14

Figure 15

Figure 16

LIST OF FIGURES

Title

The location of sampling stations at Batang Ai

Reservoir Dam Sarawak (Source Google Earth 2014)

Percentage of family caught in Batang Ai Reservoir

Comparisons of transparency among stations

Comparisons of temperature among depths

Comparisons of pH among depths

Comparisons of dissolved oxygen among depths

Comparisons of turbidity among depths

Comparisons of conductivity among depths

Comparisons ofBOD5 among depths

Comparisons of mean T~S among depths

Comparisons of mean Chl-a among depths

Comparisons of nitrate among depths

Comparisons of nitrite among depths

Comparisons of ammonia among depths

Comparisons of orthophosphate among depths

Length-weight relationship for the three fish species

Pages

6

17

19

20

21

22

23

24

25

26

27

28

29

30

31

32

Vlll I

Tables

Table 1

Table 2

Table 3

Table 4

Table 5

Table 6

Table 7

LIST OF TABLES

Titles Pages

Coordinates and locations of sampling stations 6

Fishing methods and habitat description 7

Species composition of fish caught at Batang Ai reservoir 18

Length-weight relationship and condition factor (K) for the 31

three dominant species

Species Diversity Species Richness and Species Evenness in 33

Batang Ai Reservoir

Stomach content and frequency of occurrence for the three 34

dominant species

Results of mass method for the three dominant species 34

IX

J

LIST OF APPENDICES

Appendix Titles Pages

Appendix 1 Vegetation that was not removed during impoundment 50

Appendix 2 Logging activity at the upstream of Batang Ai Bydroshy 50

electric Reservoir

Appendix 3 Cage culture activity 51

Appendix 4 Mass growing of rooted aquatic plant 51

x

Fish Fauna Composition and Water Quality at Batang Ai Hydroelectric Reservoir

Lubok Antu Sarawak

Nur Ezzaty binti Nazarudin

Science and Aquatic Resources Management

Faculty of Resources Science and Technology

University Malaysia Sarawak

ABSTRACT

This study was carried out in October 2014 and February 2015 to determine the fish species composition and

water quality at Batang Ai Hydroelectric reservoir area A total of six sampling stations were selected in this

tudy Fourteen water quality parameters were documented based on in-situ and ex-situ laboratory analysis that

were carried out according to the APHA (2000) methods A total of 992 individuals consisting of 20 species

from 8 families were caught in Batang Ai Hydro-electric reservoir The three most dominant species were

Cyclocheilichti1ys apogon Osteochilus wandersii and Barbonymus schwanenfeldii Results for in-situ water

qual ity parameters were pH (622-832) dissolved oxygen (07-83 mglL) conductivity (63-1207 -IScm)

temperature (263-31 3 degC) transparency (1 02-427 m) and turbidity (000-3466 FNU) For ex-situ water

quality parameters results of BODs ranged from 07-63 mgL TSS (0002-0043 giL) chlorophyll-a (170 to

3585 mglL) and for nutrients (ammonical nitrogen 003 to 253 mglL nitrate 001 to 021 mgL

orthophosphate 002 to 204 mgL and Nitrite 0001 to 0117 mgL) The fisheries production of Batang Ai

Hydroelectric Reservoir was estimated to be 1117 kg ha -I yr- I to 2067 kg ha-I yr- I Aquaculture and other

anthropogenic activities occurring within the surrounding areas of the reservoir may have negatively impacted

the water quality of Batang Ai Hydro-electric reservoir

ABSTRAK

Kajian telah dijalankan pada bulan Oktober 2014 dan Februari 2015 untuk menentukan komposisi spesies ikan

dan kualiti air di kawasan Empangan Hidro-elektrik Satang Ai Enam stesen pensampelan telah dipilih dalam

kajian ini Empatbelas parameter kualiti air telah didokumentasikan berdasarkan penganalissan in-situ dan exshysitll pen ampelan dengan mengikuti cara APHA (2000) Sebanyak 992 ekor ikan telah ditangkap terdiri daripada

20 spesies daripada 8 famili di Empangan Hidro-elektrik Satang Ai Tiga spesies dominan adalah

Cycocheilichlhys apoeon Osteochilus wandersii and Barbonymus schwanenfeldii Hasil kajian in-situ adalah

pH (622-832) oksigen terlarut (07-83 mglL) konduktiviti (63-1207 -IScm) suhu (263-313 degC) kejemihan

(102-427 m) dan kekeruhan (000-3466 FNU) Untuk kajian ex-situ hasil kajian untuk SODs adalah 07-63 mglL TSS (0002-0043 gil) klorofil-a (1 70 to 3585 mglL) dan untuk nutrien (ammonical nitrogen 003 to

253 mgL nitrat 001 to 021 mglL orthofosfat 002 to 204 mgL and nitrit 0001 to 0117 mgL) Produksi

ikan oleh Empangan Hidro-elektrik Batang Ai dianggarkan 1117 kg ha- I yr- I kepada 2067 kg ha- I yr- I

Akuakultur dan aktiviti lain berpunca daripada kegiatan manusia yang berlaku di sekeliling kawasan empangan

telah memberi kesan negatif kepada Empangan Hidro-elektrik Satang Ai

1

10 Introduction

Dams and reservoir have been designed for multiple purposes such as for irrigation

water supply tourism purposes aquaculture site and cage culture (Nyanti et al 2012)

Morley (2007) stated that due to high worldwide demand for water the creation of reservoirs

are unavoidable However this water body could also be polluted due to anthropogenic

activities A study in three biggest natural lakes in Malaysia showed that different levels of

degradation occurred due to discharged oil from motorboat untreated sewage from

communities and nearby plantations (Sharip and Zakaria 2008)

Batang Ai Hydroelectric Reservoir (BAHR) was impounded in 19851t is located 260

km from Kuching and has a surface area of 84 ha at full supply with catchment area of 1200

km~ BAHR receives inflow water from two main rivers which are Batang Ai and the Engkari

River

Malaysia has a variety of freshwater fish speCIes rangmg from dominant to rare

species A study by Chong et al (2010) stated that Malaysia has approximately 521 species

of freshwater fish A total of 63 species of fish is present in Batang Ai National Park

(Abdullah 2004) Freshwater fish is very important in several aspects that involves aquatic

ecosystem for example as the indicator for the water quality (Fausch et al 1990) and nutrient

status of the surrounding water (Hamid et al 2012)

Reseaf(~h in freshwater fisheries in Malaysia were gIven little attention when

compared to the marine fisheries This resulted in fewer information on total catch landings

and on consumption of the fishes (Salam and Gopinath 2006) Very little information on fish

fauna composition and total catch landings in BAHR have been documented According to

Jalal et al (2012) due to the damming the decline in fish community and fisheries are caused

by factors such as overexploitation of species pollution and changes in the environment The

production of fisheries depends on many factors such as cost season and types of fishing gear

2

used Abu Talib et al (2003) stated that fisheries in reservoir is done individually or in a

small group by using seine net trap as well as hook and line

The composition richness evenness and diversity were measured in order to

document the fish fauna composition at the BAHR The stomach contents of fish were

analyzed to study the feeding habits of three dominant species in BAHR The water quality

analysis were also conducted at three different areas

The objectives of this study were to

1 Document the current fish species composition and total catch of commercial fisheries

at Batang Ai Hydroelectric Reservoir

2 Determine the length-weight relationship and feeding behaviour of the dominant

species and

3 Document the water quality at selected stations

20 Literature Review

21 Reservoir

According to Thornton et al (1992) a reservoir is any natural water that has been

modified or managed to provide water for developing human activities and demands in

response to specific community needs It is often called impoundments with subsequent

inundation of the upstream land surface formed by a dam across a river The upper part of the

reservoir has a similar characteristics with the river due to the inflow of water from the river

while the lower part of the reservoir is very similar to the lake because of its stratification

(Holmgren amp Appelberg 2000)

The construction of hydroelectric dams reservoirs and artificial lakes in Malaysia

leads to destruction of the surrounding ecosystem It will affect the aquatic environment

water quality and composition of fishes Diversions from the construction of the dam will

cause big changes in topology and morphology of the river Study on water quality at Bera

Lake shows that water quality was highly ~ffected by the run-off from the nearby plantation

sewage from the communities around the lake and discharged oil from motorboats (Chong

2007) According to Fatimah et al (2002) strong thermal stratification occur in Kenyir Lake

throughout the year during both dry and wet season A study by Chong (2007) showed that

Bera Lake has high presence of nutrient

22 Threats tomiddotMalaysian reservoir

Fish communities in reservoir are facing many environmental manipulations and

degradations such as water management and fluctuation homesteading and ririparian land

development (Ali and Lee 1995) It will affect the aquatic environment water quality and the

composition of fishes Diversions from the construction of the dam will cause big changes in

topology and morphology of the river The main environmental factor that influence fish

distribution are the concentration of oxygen width depth and leaves-dead wood substrates

Pusat Khid~at M~klumat Akademik UNIVERSITI MALAYSIA SARAWAK

(Kouamelan et al 2003) The most crucial threat is over-fishing which will disturb the

nature of the fish its habitat and lower its biodiversity

23 Damming

According to Friedl amp Wiiest (2001) 800 000 artificial lakes and reservoirs have been

built which is equivalent to approximately 500 000 km2 of the land or is almost 3 of the

entire land surface on the earth Damming of rivers is truly important to sustain the

anthropogenic need such as for drinking washing other daily and industrial uses According

to Yusoff et al (2006) the water demand in Malaysia for both domestic and industrial uses

are increasing significantly from 26 billion m3 in 1990 to 37 billion m3 in 2000 Without

enough water supplies it will cause problems to daily routine for the community and

damming is the easiest way to solve it Hence they are 54 dams operated in Malaysia with the

total capacity of 12 biIlion m3year to cover the demand (Yusoff et at 2006) The purpose of

Batang Ai reservoir was for hydroelectric generation and it is also important sources of

energy producer for the Sarawak Corridor Additionally it is also act as important aquaculture

site (Ling et al 2013)

24 Fish inventory in Batang Ai National Park

Commercial fisheries play an important roles in the lives of fishing communities in

Malaysia Ali and Lee (1995) stated that commercial fish plays an important role In

Chenderoh Bukit Merah and Temenggor reservoirs the fish composition consisted of catfish

(Mystus sp) snakeheads (Channa micropeltis) cyprinids (Hampala macrolepidota Tor

tambroides Puntius bulu) Osphronemus gouramy and other species (Baluyut 1999 DOF

1998)

In Batang Ai National Park a total of 26 species from 9 families was reported by

Abdullah (2004) In addition to the earlier study done by Meredith (1993) a total of 63

species were reportedly present in Batang Ai National Park The dominant family IS

Cyprinidae followed by Ballitoridae (Abdullah 2004)

30 Materials and Methods

31 Study Site

This study was conducted at Batang Ai Hydroelectric Reservoir Six stations were

selected for water quality data collection Three stations were at the tributaries of the reservoir

and three stations were at the cage culture area (Figure 1) The coordinates for each station

was recorded using the Global Positioning System (GPS) (Gannin GPSmap 628) (Table 1)

Figure 1 The location of sampling stations at Batang Ai Reservoir Dam Sarawak (Source

Google Earth 2015)

6

Table 1 Coordinates and locations of sampling stations

Station Coordinates Locations

1 N 01 0 14 482 E 1120 02 140 Delok

2 NOlo 13033 E 111 0 58587 Telaus

3 NOlo 11155 E 111 0 52 102 Sungai Bungui

4 N 01 0 09 223 E 111 0 50 291 At the edge of the reservoir

5 NOl o 09 330 E 111 0 50 384 Near Tiang Laju cage culture

6 N 01 0 10 060 E 111 0 54 430 Kerangan Mong

32 Sample Collection

Several types of net that were used for fish collection were gill net with different mesh

sizes (254 cm 508 cm 1016 cm and 127 cm) and three-layered gill net (14 cm 4 cm and

14 cm) Sampling procedures were similar for every station where the nets was left overnight

before being retrieved the next day and habitat description were also noted for every station

(Table 2)

Table 2 Fishing methods and habitat description

Stations Fishing methods Habitat description

Three-layered net gill net

2 Three-layered net gill net

3 Three-layered net gin net

4 Three-layered net gill net

5 Three-layered net gill net

6 Three-layered net gill net

Lowest water level Hill paddy season

already burned near to logging site

At the edge of reservoir

Near to Able Asia cage culture

Greenish water 1200 cage at mouth of

this area

At the edge of reservoir

At the edge of reservoir

At the edge of reservoir

33 Sample Preservation

Fish samples was preserved in the field by using 10 formalin and was left for

approximately 72 hours before the samples were rinsed and soaked in tap water for ten

minutes and transferred into 70 ethanol for further laboratory analysis and preservation

purposes

34 Sample Identification

Fish samples was identified by using the taxonomy keys from Mohsin amp Ambak

(1991) Inger amp Chin (2002) Kottelat et al (1993) and FishBase

(httpfishbaseorgsearchphp) After the sample identification the fish was weighed by

using Shimadzu EDLB300 portable balance The total length and standard length were also

measured by using a ruler The total length is the measurement from the tip of the mouth to

the end of tail while the standard length is the measurement from the tip of the mouth to the

end of fleshy caudal peduncle (Kotelat et al 1993) After the whole process of sample

identification all of the samples were grouped together according to their species Fish

samples were kept in specimen bottles that were labelled with station number coordinates and

date of sampling

35 Stomach Content

Thirty individuals from three dominant species were selected for stomach content

analysis The stomach was weighed by using balance (Shimadzu ELB 300) after was

dissected from the fish The stomach was then preserved in 5 formalin In the laboratory

the stomach was placed in petri dish dissected by using dissecting kit (Gold cross) and the

content was analyzed under stereomicroscope (Olympus SZ51) The content was sorted

according to their type and each type of the food was weighed Other information such as the

empty mass of the stomach volume and length were recorded Stomach content then was

8

analyzed by using Frequency of Occurrence (FO) and Mass Method (MM) FO was used to

calculate the frequent types of food occur in selected species while MM was used to evaluate

the diet composition of each type of species The analysis used the following formula

Frequency of Occurrence

Nf h Dmiddot FOtS I X 100let i =

NfiSh

Mass Method

~~fiSllW 611 IJDiet 112 = x 100 E tlShW

J=l J

36 In-situ Parameters Collection

In-situ physico-chemical water quality parameters such as pH temperature dissolved

oxygen and turbidity was recorded in triplicate at three different depths In additions water

depth and transparency was also recorded ~n triplicate

The depth was recorded by using depth finder (Speedtech Instruments 67505) The pH

was recorded by using pH meter (Eutech Instruments) DO and temperature by using DO

meter (Sper Scientific 850041) and water transparency was recorded by using Secchi Disc

(KAHLSICO No 281 W A 1088 W AP - 4669) Water turbidity was determined by using

MARTINI instrument (Mi 415)

37 Ex-situ Parameters

371 Five-Day Biochemical Oxygen Demand (BODs)

Water samples at each station was collected by using a Van Dorn water sampler in

triplicates at three depthssub-surface layer (02 m) mid layer (10m) and bottom layer (20

m) They were placed in 1 L of acid washed polyethylene bottles and stored in cooler boxes

before being transported to laboratory for analyses According to APHA (2000) BOD5 test

was done at day 5 Initial DO reading was measured at the sampling site and the water sample

was transferred into 300 ml BOD glass bottle The bottle was wrapped with aluminium foil to

prevent penetration of sunlight and photosynthesis process They were then wrapped with

newspaper to prevent from being broken during transportation The samples were left in a

cooler box for 5 days After 5 days the final DO reading was determined using DO meter

(Sper Scientific 850041) The BOD5 value was determined by using the formula

BOD5 (mglL) = (DO 1 - 005)

where

0 0 1== dissolved oxygen of sample at day 1 (mgL)

DOs == dissolved oxygen after 5 days incubation at 20middotC (mgL)

372 Total Suspended Solids (TSS)

Total suspended analysis was divided into two parts which were pre-fieldtrip sampling

method and post-sampling fieldtrip method For pre-field trip sampling method filter paper

was prepared Glass fibre filter papers (GFIC 47 mm diameter 045 )lm membrane) was

rinsed with di tilled water placed on a piece of aluminium paper and left overnight at 103shy

105 OC in the oven The next day the filter paper that was left to cool in the desiccator before

the initial weight were weighed by using electronic balance For post-field trip sampling

method filtrat iOn process was carried out by usin~ vacuum filtration Water samples at each

station were collected by using a Van Dorn water sampler in triplicates at three depths of subshy

surface layer (02 m) mid layer (10 m) and bottom layer (20 m) A volume of water sample

(shaken well) was poured into the filter funnel Once all of the water has been drained out

filter paper was removed from the filtration funnel and placed into the aluminium foil The

filter paper then was dried in oven at 103-105 degC for 2 hours (APHA 2000) The filter paper

was taken out and allowed to cool before it was weighed again The drying process was

continued until a constant weight was achieved The amount of TSS was determined by using

the fonnula

TSS (mgl) = final weight (mg) - initial weight (mg) volume of water (1000 ml)

373 Cbloropbyll-a analysis

One litre water sample was filtered by using vacuum pump in semi dark room The

filter paper containing chlorophyll-a was analyzed and grounded by using grinder for 5

minutes Then 5 to 6 mL of 90 acetone was added into each sample Samples were

transferred into capped test tube and 90 acetone was added into the test tube to make up the

10 mL volume The test tube then was wrapped with aluminium foil and placed in the

refrigerator at 4 degC for 4 to 18 hours to facilitate the complete extraction of the pigments The

liquid then was transferred into centrifuge tube and placed into centrifuge for 10 minutes

under 3000 rpm The optical density was determined by using spectrophotometer at 750 nm

664 run 647 nrn and 630 nm wavelength Extinction for each of the small turbidity blank was

corrected by subtracting 750 nm from 664nm 647 nm and 630 nm absorptions (APHA

2000) The concentration of chlorophyll-a in the extract after correction was calculated as

below

Chlorophyll-a = 1185 (E664-E750) - 154 (E647-E750) - 008 (E630-E750)

where

E = The ~bsorption in the respective wavelength

Calculation of the chlorophyll-a amount per unit volume is as follow

Chl-a (mgL) = (Ca x v) V

where

Ca =Chlorophyll concentration in lgmL

v = Volume of acetone in mL

V = Volume of sample in mL

Page 3: FISH FAUNA COMPOSITION AND WATER QUALITY AT BATANG … Fauna Composition... · The fisheries production of Batang Ai Hydroelectric Reservoir was estimated to be 1'1.17 kg ha -I :

I declare this ProjectlThesis is classified as (please tick (--J))

o CONFIDENTIAL (Contains confidential information under the Official Secret Act 1972) IZlRESTRICTED (Contains restricted information as specified by the organisation where

research was done) DOPEN ACCESS

I declare this ProjectlThesis is to be submitted to the Centre for Academic Information Services (CAIS) and uploaded into UNlMAS Institutional Repository (UNIMAS IR) (please tick (--J))

DYES [2JNO

Validation of ProjectThesis

I hereby duly affirmed with free consent and w-mingness declared that this said ProjectlThesis shall r be placed officially in the Centre for Academic Information Services with the abide interest and rights as follo~s

bull This ProjectlThesisis the sole legal property ofUniversiti Malaysia Sarawak (UNIMAS) bull The Centre for Academic Information Services has the lawful right to make copies of the

ProjectlThesis for academic and research purposes only and not for other purposes bull The Centre for Academic Information Services has the lawful right to digitize the content

to be uploaded into Local Content Database bull The Centre for Academic Information Services has the lawful right to make copies of the

ProjectlThesis if required for use by other parties for academic purposes or by other Higher Learning Institutes

bull No dispute or any claim shall arise from the student himself herself neither a third party on this ProjectlThesis once it becomes the sole property of UNIMAS

bull This ProjectThesis or any material data and information related to it shall not be distributed published or disclosed to any party by the student himselflherself without first obtaining approval from UNIMAS

pound- l1gt cISStudents signature (Date)

Current Address oolfp J~l~tj MI l~ ThMPHv

bull I

Notes If the Projecttrhesis is CONFIDENTIAL or RESTRICTED please attach together as annexure a letter from the organisation with the date of restriction indicated and the reasons for the confidentiality and restriction

[The instrument was prepared by The Centre for Academic Information Services]

usAf Kill mat Makluma Ak demi~ NIV SIT M LAYS A SAR WAK

FISH FAUNA COMPOSITION AND WATER QUALITY AT BATANG AI

HYDROELECTRIC RESERVOIR LUBOK ANTU SARA W AK

Nur Ezzaty binti Nazarudin (37924)

This project is submitted in partial fulfilment of the requirement for degree of Bachelor of

Science with Honours

(Aquatic Resources Science Management)

Faculty of Resources Science and Technology

UNIVERSITY MALAYSIA SARAWAK

2015

I

DECLARAnON

I Nur Ezzaty binti Nazarudin final year student of Aquatic Resource Science and

Management hereby declare that this report is my own work and effort with guidance of

my supervisor Prof Dr Lee Nyanti No part of this report has previously been submitted

for any other degree university or institution of higher learning

g (NUR EZZATY NAZARUDIN)

Aquatic Resource Science and Management

Faculty of Resource Science and Technology

The project entitled Fish Fauna Composition and Water Quality at Batang Ai

Hydroelectric Reservoir Lubok Antu Sarawak was prepared by Nur Ezzaty binti

Nazarudin and submitted to the Faculty of Resources Science and Technology in partial

fulfilment of the requirements for the Degree of Bachelor (Honours) in Aquatic Science

and Management

Received for examination by

( )

Date

111

)

Acknowledgement

I am so grateful to be able to finish up this project I would like to specially thank my

dearest supervisor Professor Dr Lee Nyanti on the guidance support and assistance I also

would like to convey special thanks to my family especially my dearest father and mother

for the moral support and encouragement given I would like to express special gratitude to

my project-mate Noor Iskandar Noor Azhar for his assistance during the field trip and

your continuous support in my thesis writing Thanks to my fellow coursemates who had

experienced difficulties together including staying in the lab overnight and also thanks to

my peers under the same supervisor Daniel Nakhaie Juliana Kirollina Jane Goh and

Fakharudin for their valuable advice I am also thankful for the support of the Faculty of

Resources Science and Technology and the help provided by the laboratory assistants of

the Department of Aquatic Science especially Mr Zaidi Mr Mohd Nor Azlan Mr

Richard Toh Mr Nasri Latib and Mr Mustapha Kamal Last but not least I am also

thankful to SALCRA especially Mr Raymond and Ms Umi for the assistance given The

financial support provided by Sarawak Energy Berhad through the research grant no

GL(F07)SEBSA20 13 (28) is gratefully acknowledged

IV

rem K i mat Mak lImat Akadem ik WAK

Table of Content

Title amp Front Cover

Declaration 11

Acknowledgement IV

Table of Contents v

List of Abbreviations V11

List of Figures viii

List of Tables IX

List of Appendices x

Abstract

10 Introduction 2 20 Literature Review 4

21 Reservoir 4

22 Threats to Malaysian reservoir 4

23 Damming 5

24 Fish inventory in Batang Ai National Park 5 30 Materials and Methods 6

31 Study Site 6

32 Sample Collection 7

33 Sample Preservation 8

34 Sample Identification 8

35 Stomach Content Collection Preservation and Identification 8

36 In-situ Parameters 9

37 Ex-situ Parameters 9

371 Five-Day Biochemical Oxygen Demand 9

312 Total Suspended Solids (TSS~ 10

373 Chlorophyll-a analysis 11 374 Nitrate-N 12 375 Nitrite-N 13 376 Ammonia-N 13 377 Orthophosphate 14

38 Indices 14

381 Shannon - Weiners Diversity Index 14

382 Margaejs Species Richness Index 15

v

383 Pieou s Evenness Index 15 384 Length-weight Relationship and Condition Factor 15

39 Statistical Analysis 16 40 Results 17

41 Fish fauna composition 17 42 In-situ parameter 18

421

422

423

424

415

416

Transparency 18 Temperature 19 pH 20 Dissolved oxygen 21 Turbidity 22 Conductivity 23

43 Ex-situ parameter 24 43 1 Biological oxygen demand (BODs) 24 43 2 Total suspended solids (TSS) 25 433 Chlorophyll-a 26 434 Nitrate 27 435 Nitrite 28 436 Ammonia 29 43 7 Orthophosphate 30

44 Length-weight relationship 31 45 Species Diversity Richness and Evennes 33 46 The stomach content and frequency of occurrence 33

50 Discussion 35 60 Summary 42 70 References 43 80 Appendices 50

VI

J-

degC

J-lm

BOD

BANP

BAHR

D

DO

J-lm

GSI

H

HSI

J

km

LEWS

m

mgL

mm

N

N02shy

N03shy

TSS

LIST OF ABBREVIATION

Degree Ce1cius

Micrometer

Biochemical Oxygen Demand

Batang Ai National Park

Batang Ai Hydroelectric Reservoir

Margalefs Species Richness Index

Dissolved Oxygen

Microsiemen

Gonadosomatic Index

Shannon - Weiner s Diversity Index

Hepatosomatic Index

Pie lou s Evenness Index middot

Kilometer

Lanjak Entimau Wildlife Sanctuary

meter

milligram per litre

millimetre

Nitrogen

Nitrite

Nitrate

Total Suspended Solids

VB

Figures

Figure 1

Figure 2

Figure 3

Figure 4

Figure 5

Figure 6

Figure 7

Figure 8

Figure 9

Figure 10

Figure 11

Figure 12

Figure 13

Figure 14

Figure 15

Figure 16

LIST OF FIGURES

Title

The location of sampling stations at Batang Ai

Reservoir Dam Sarawak (Source Google Earth 2014)

Percentage of family caught in Batang Ai Reservoir

Comparisons of transparency among stations

Comparisons of temperature among depths

Comparisons of pH among depths

Comparisons of dissolved oxygen among depths

Comparisons of turbidity among depths

Comparisons of conductivity among depths

Comparisons ofBOD5 among depths

Comparisons of mean T~S among depths

Comparisons of mean Chl-a among depths

Comparisons of nitrate among depths

Comparisons of nitrite among depths

Comparisons of ammonia among depths

Comparisons of orthophosphate among depths

Length-weight relationship for the three fish species

Pages

6

17

19

20

21

22

23

24

25

26

27

28

29

30

31

32

Vlll I

Tables

Table 1

Table 2

Table 3

Table 4

Table 5

Table 6

Table 7

LIST OF TABLES

Titles Pages

Coordinates and locations of sampling stations 6

Fishing methods and habitat description 7

Species composition of fish caught at Batang Ai reservoir 18

Length-weight relationship and condition factor (K) for the 31

three dominant species

Species Diversity Species Richness and Species Evenness in 33

Batang Ai Reservoir

Stomach content and frequency of occurrence for the three 34

dominant species

Results of mass method for the three dominant species 34

IX

J

LIST OF APPENDICES

Appendix Titles Pages

Appendix 1 Vegetation that was not removed during impoundment 50

Appendix 2 Logging activity at the upstream of Batang Ai Bydroshy 50

electric Reservoir

Appendix 3 Cage culture activity 51

Appendix 4 Mass growing of rooted aquatic plant 51

x

Fish Fauna Composition and Water Quality at Batang Ai Hydroelectric Reservoir

Lubok Antu Sarawak

Nur Ezzaty binti Nazarudin

Science and Aquatic Resources Management

Faculty of Resources Science and Technology

University Malaysia Sarawak

ABSTRACT

This study was carried out in October 2014 and February 2015 to determine the fish species composition and

water quality at Batang Ai Hydroelectric reservoir area A total of six sampling stations were selected in this

tudy Fourteen water quality parameters were documented based on in-situ and ex-situ laboratory analysis that

were carried out according to the APHA (2000) methods A total of 992 individuals consisting of 20 species

from 8 families were caught in Batang Ai Hydro-electric reservoir The three most dominant species were

Cyclocheilichti1ys apogon Osteochilus wandersii and Barbonymus schwanenfeldii Results for in-situ water

qual ity parameters were pH (622-832) dissolved oxygen (07-83 mglL) conductivity (63-1207 -IScm)

temperature (263-31 3 degC) transparency (1 02-427 m) and turbidity (000-3466 FNU) For ex-situ water

quality parameters results of BODs ranged from 07-63 mgL TSS (0002-0043 giL) chlorophyll-a (170 to

3585 mglL) and for nutrients (ammonical nitrogen 003 to 253 mglL nitrate 001 to 021 mgL

orthophosphate 002 to 204 mgL and Nitrite 0001 to 0117 mgL) The fisheries production of Batang Ai

Hydroelectric Reservoir was estimated to be 1117 kg ha -I yr- I to 2067 kg ha-I yr- I Aquaculture and other

anthropogenic activities occurring within the surrounding areas of the reservoir may have negatively impacted

the water quality of Batang Ai Hydro-electric reservoir

ABSTRAK

Kajian telah dijalankan pada bulan Oktober 2014 dan Februari 2015 untuk menentukan komposisi spesies ikan

dan kualiti air di kawasan Empangan Hidro-elektrik Satang Ai Enam stesen pensampelan telah dipilih dalam

kajian ini Empatbelas parameter kualiti air telah didokumentasikan berdasarkan penganalissan in-situ dan exshysitll pen ampelan dengan mengikuti cara APHA (2000) Sebanyak 992 ekor ikan telah ditangkap terdiri daripada

20 spesies daripada 8 famili di Empangan Hidro-elektrik Satang Ai Tiga spesies dominan adalah

Cycocheilichlhys apoeon Osteochilus wandersii and Barbonymus schwanenfeldii Hasil kajian in-situ adalah

pH (622-832) oksigen terlarut (07-83 mglL) konduktiviti (63-1207 -IScm) suhu (263-313 degC) kejemihan

(102-427 m) dan kekeruhan (000-3466 FNU) Untuk kajian ex-situ hasil kajian untuk SODs adalah 07-63 mglL TSS (0002-0043 gil) klorofil-a (1 70 to 3585 mglL) dan untuk nutrien (ammonical nitrogen 003 to

253 mgL nitrat 001 to 021 mglL orthofosfat 002 to 204 mgL and nitrit 0001 to 0117 mgL) Produksi

ikan oleh Empangan Hidro-elektrik Batang Ai dianggarkan 1117 kg ha- I yr- I kepada 2067 kg ha- I yr- I

Akuakultur dan aktiviti lain berpunca daripada kegiatan manusia yang berlaku di sekeliling kawasan empangan

telah memberi kesan negatif kepada Empangan Hidro-elektrik Satang Ai

1

10 Introduction

Dams and reservoir have been designed for multiple purposes such as for irrigation

water supply tourism purposes aquaculture site and cage culture (Nyanti et al 2012)

Morley (2007) stated that due to high worldwide demand for water the creation of reservoirs

are unavoidable However this water body could also be polluted due to anthropogenic

activities A study in three biggest natural lakes in Malaysia showed that different levels of

degradation occurred due to discharged oil from motorboat untreated sewage from

communities and nearby plantations (Sharip and Zakaria 2008)

Batang Ai Hydroelectric Reservoir (BAHR) was impounded in 19851t is located 260

km from Kuching and has a surface area of 84 ha at full supply with catchment area of 1200

km~ BAHR receives inflow water from two main rivers which are Batang Ai and the Engkari

River

Malaysia has a variety of freshwater fish speCIes rangmg from dominant to rare

species A study by Chong et al (2010) stated that Malaysia has approximately 521 species

of freshwater fish A total of 63 species of fish is present in Batang Ai National Park

(Abdullah 2004) Freshwater fish is very important in several aspects that involves aquatic

ecosystem for example as the indicator for the water quality (Fausch et al 1990) and nutrient

status of the surrounding water (Hamid et al 2012)

Reseaf(~h in freshwater fisheries in Malaysia were gIven little attention when

compared to the marine fisheries This resulted in fewer information on total catch landings

and on consumption of the fishes (Salam and Gopinath 2006) Very little information on fish

fauna composition and total catch landings in BAHR have been documented According to

Jalal et al (2012) due to the damming the decline in fish community and fisheries are caused

by factors such as overexploitation of species pollution and changes in the environment The

production of fisheries depends on many factors such as cost season and types of fishing gear

2

used Abu Talib et al (2003) stated that fisheries in reservoir is done individually or in a

small group by using seine net trap as well as hook and line

The composition richness evenness and diversity were measured in order to

document the fish fauna composition at the BAHR The stomach contents of fish were

analyzed to study the feeding habits of three dominant species in BAHR The water quality

analysis were also conducted at three different areas

The objectives of this study were to

1 Document the current fish species composition and total catch of commercial fisheries

at Batang Ai Hydroelectric Reservoir

2 Determine the length-weight relationship and feeding behaviour of the dominant

species and

3 Document the water quality at selected stations

20 Literature Review

21 Reservoir

According to Thornton et al (1992) a reservoir is any natural water that has been

modified or managed to provide water for developing human activities and demands in

response to specific community needs It is often called impoundments with subsequent

inundation of the upstream land surface formed by a dam across a river The upper part of the

reservoir has a similar characteristics with the river due to the inflow of water from the river

while the lower part of the reservoir is very similar to the lake because of its stratification

(Holmgren amp Appelberg 2000)

The construction of hydroelectric dams reservoirs and artificial lakes in Malaysia

leads to destruction of the surrounding ecosystem It will affect the aquatic environment

water quality and composition of fishes Diversions from the construction of the dam will

cause big changes in topology and morphology of the river Study on water quality at Bera

Lake shows that water quality was highly ~ffected by the run-off from the nearby plantation

sewage from the communities around the lake and discharged oil from motorboats (Chong

2007) According to Fatimah et al (2002) strong thermal stratification occur in Kenyir Lake

throughout the year during both dry and wet season A study by Chong (2007) showed that

Bera Lake has high presence of nutrient

22 Threats tomiddotMalaysian reservoir

Fish communities in reservoir are facing many environmental manipulations and

degradations such as water management and fluctuation homesteading and ririparian land

development (Ali and Lee 1995) It will affect the aquatic environment water quality and the

composition of fishes Diversions from the construction of the dam will cause big changes in

topology and morphology of the river The main environmental factor that influence fish

distribution are the concentration of oxygen width depth and leaves-dead wood substrates

Pusat Khid~at M~klumat Akademik UNIVERSITI MALAYSIA SARAWAK

(Kouamelan et al 2003) The most crucial threat is over-fishing which will disturb the

nature of the fish its habitat and lower its biodiversity

23 Damming

According to Friedl amp Wiiest (2001) 800 000 artificial lakes and reservoirs have been

built which is equivalent to approximately 500 000 km2 of the land or is almost 3 of the

entire land surface on the earth Damming of rivers is truly important to sustain the

anthropogenic need such as for drinking washing other daily and industrial uses According

to Yusoff et al (2006) the water demand in Malaysia for both domestic and industrial uses

are increasing significantly from 26 billion m3 in 1990 to 37 billion m3 in 2000 Without

enough water supplies it will cause problems to daily routine for the community and

damming is the easiest way to solve it Hence they are 54 dams operated in Malaysia with the

total capacity of 12 biIlion m3year to cover the demand (Yusoff et at 2006) The purpose of

Batang Ai reservoir was for hydroelectric generation and it is also important sources of

energy producer for the Sarawak Corridor Additionally it is also act as important aquaculture

site (Ling et al 2013)

24 Fish inventory in Batang Ai National Park

Commercial fisheries play an important roles in the lives of fishing communities in

Malaysia Ali and Lee (1995) stated that commercial fish plays an important role In

Chenderoh Bukit Merah and Temenggor reservoirs the fish composition consisted of catfish

(Mystus sp) snakeheads (Channa micropeltis) cyprinids (Hampala macrolepidota Tor

tambroides Puntius bulu) Osphronemus gouramy and other species (Baluyut 1999 DOF

1998)

In Batang Ai National Park a total of 26 species from 9 families was reported by

Abdullah (2004) In addition to the earlier study done by Meredith (1993) a total of 63

species were reportedly present in Batang Ai National Park The dominant family IS

Cyprinidae followed by Ballitoridae (Abdullah 2004)

30 Materials and Methods

31 Study Site

This study was conducted at Batang Ai Hydroelectric Reservoir Six stations were

selected for water quality data collection Three stations were at the tributaries of the reservoir

and three stations were at the cage culture area (Figure 1) The coordinates for each station

was recorded using the Global Positioning System (GPS) (Gannin GPSmap 628) (Table 1)

Figure 1 The location of sampling stations at Batang Ai Reservoir Dam Sarawak (Source

Google Earth 2015)

6

Table 1 Coordinates and locations of sampling stations

Station Coordinates Locations

1 N 01 0 14 482 E 1120 02 140 Delok

2 NOlo 13033 E 111 0 58587 Telaus

3 NOlo 11155 E 111 0 52 102 Sungai Bungui

4 N 01 0 09 223 E 111 0 50 291 At the edge of the reservoir

5 NOl o 09 330 E 111 0 50 384 Near Tiang Laju cage culture

6 N 01 0 10 060 E 111 0 54 430 Kerangan Mong

32 Sample Collection

Several types of net that were used for fish collection were gill net with different mesh

sizes (254 cm 508 cm 1016 cm and 127 cm) and three-layered gill net (14 cm 4 cm and

14 cm) Sampling procedures were similar for every station where the nets was left overnight

before being retrieved the next day and habitat description were also noted for every station

(Table 2)

Table 2 Fishing methods and habitat description

Stations Fishing methods Habitat description

Three-layered net gill net

2 Three-layered net gill net

3 Three-layered net gin net

4 Three-layered net gill net

5 Three-layered net gill net

6 Three-layered net gill net

Lowest water level Hill paddy season

already burned near to logging site

At the edge of reservoir

Near to Able Asia cage culture

Greenish water 1200 cage at mouth of

this area

At the edge of reservoir

At the edge of reservoir

At the edge of reservoir

33 Sample Preservation

Fish samples was preserved in the field by using 10 formalin and was left for

approximately 72 hours before the samples were rinsed and soaked in tap water for ten

minutes and transferred into 70 ethanol for further laboratory analysis and preservation

purposes

34 Sample Identification

Fish samples was identified by using the taxonomy keys from Mohsin amp Ambak

(1991) Inger amp Chin (2002) Kottelat et al (1993) and FishBase

(httpfishbaseorgsearchphp) After the sample identification the fish was weighed by

using Shimadzu EDLB300 portable balance The total length and standard length were also

measured by using a ruler The total length is the measurement from the tip of the mouth to

the end of tail while the standard length is the measurement from the tip of the mouth to the

end of fleshy caudal peduncle (Kotelat et al 1993) After the whole process of sample

identification all of the samples were grouped together according to their species Fish

samples were kept in specimen bottles that were labelled with station number coordinates and

date of sampling

35 Stomach Content

Thirty individuals from three dominant species were selected for stomach content

analysis The stomach was weighed by using balance (Shimadzu ELB 300) after was

dissected from the fish The stomach was then preserved in 5 formalin In the laboratory

the stomach was placed in petri dish dissected by using dissecting kit (Gold cross) and the

content was analyzed under stereomicroscope (Olympus SZ51) The content was sorted

according to their type and each type of the food was weighed Other information such as the

empty mass of the stomach volume and length were recorded Stomach content then was

8

analyzed by using Frequency of Occurrence (FO) and Mass Method (MM) FO was used to

calculate the frequent types of food occur in selected species while MM was used to evaluate

the diet composition of each type of species The analysis used the following formula

Frequency of Occurrence

Nf h Dmiddot FOtS I X 100let i =

NfiSh

Mass Method

~~fiSllW 611 IJDiet 112 = x 100 E tlShW

J=l J

36 In-situ Parameters Collection

In-situ physico-chemical water quality parameters such as pH temperature dissolved

oxygen and turbidity was recorded in triplicate at three different depths In additions water

depth and transparency was also recorded ~n triplicate

The depth was recorded by using depth finder (Speedtech Instruments 67505) The pH

was recorded by using pH meter (Eutech Instruments) DO and temperature by using DO

meter (Sper Scientific 850041) and water transparency was recorded by using Secchi Disc

(KAHLSICO No 281 W A 1088 W AP - 4669) Water turbidity was determined by using

MARTINI instrument (Mi 415)

37 Ex-situ Parameters

371 Five-Day Biochemical Oxygen Demand (BODs)

Water samples at each station was collected by using a Van Dorn water sampler in

triplicates at three depthssub-surface layer (02 m) mid layer (10m) and bottom layer (20

m) They were placed in 1 L of acid washed polyethylene bottles and stored in cooler boxes

before being transported to laboratory for analyses According to APHA (2000) BOD5 test

was done at day 5 Initial DO reading was measured at the sampling site and the water sample

was transferred into 300 ml BOD glass bottle The bottle was wrapped with aluminium foil to

prevent penetration of sunlight and photosynthesis process They were then wrapped with

newspaper to prevent from being broken during transportation The samples were left in a

cooler box for 5 days After 5 days the final DO reading was determined using DO meter

(Sper Scientific 850041) The BOD5 value was determined by using the formula

BOD5 (mglL) = (DO 1 - 005)

where

0 0 1== dissolved oxygen of sample at day 1 (mgL)

DOs == dissolved oxygen after 5 days incubation at 20middotC (mgL)

372 Total Suspended Solids (TSS)

Total suspended analysis was divided into two parts which were pre-fieldtrip sampling

method and post-sampling fieldtrip method For pre-field trip sampling method filter paper

was prepared Glass fibre filter papers (GFIC 47 mm diameter 045 )lm membrane) was

rinsed with di tilled water placed on a piece of aluminium paper and left overnight at 103shy

105 OC in the oven The next day the filter paper that was left to cool in the desiccator before

the initial weight were weighed by using electronic balance For post-field trip sampling

method filtrat iOn process was carried out by usin~ vacuum filtration Water samples at each

station were collected by using a Van Dorn water sampler in triplicates at three depths of subshy

surface layer (02 m) mid layer (10 m) and bottom layer (20 m) A volume of water sample

(shaken well) was poured into the filter funnel Once all of the water has been drained out

filter paper was removed from the filtration funnel and placed into the aluminium foil The

filter paper then was dried in oven at 103-105 degC for 2 hours (APHA 2000) The filter paper

was taken out and allowed to cool before it was weighed again The drying process was

continued until a constant weight was achieved The amount of TSS was determined by using

the fonnula

TSS (mgl) = final weight (mg) - initial weight (mg) volume of water (1000 ml)

373 Cbloropbyll-a analysis

One litre water sample was filtered by using vacuum pump in semi dark room The

filter paper containing chlorophyll-a was analyzed and grounded by using grinder for 5

minutes Then 5 to 6 mL of 90 acetone was added into each sample Samples were

transferred into capped test tube and 90 acetone was added into the test tube to make up the

10 mL volume The test tube then was wrapped with aluminium foil and placed in the

refrigerator at 4 degC for 4 to 18 hours to facilitate the complete extraction of the pigments The

liquid then was transferred into centrifuge tube and placed into centrifuge for 10 minutes

under 3000 rpm The optical density was determined by using spectrophotometer at 750 nm

664 run 647 nrn and 630 nm wavelength Extinction for each of the small turbidity blank was

corrected by subtracting 750 nm from 664nm 647 nm and 630 nm absorptions (APHA

2000) The concentration of chlorophyll-a in the extract after correction was calculated as

below

Chlorophyll-a = 1185 (E664-E750) - 154 (E647-E750) - 008 (E630-E750)

where

E = The ~bsorption in the respective wavelength

Calculation of the chlorophyll-a amount per unit volume is as follow

Chl-a (mgL) = (Ca x v) V

where

Ca =Chlorophyll concentration in lgmL

v = Volume of acetone in mL

V = Volume of sample in mL

Page 4: FISH FAUNA COMPOSITION AND WATER QUALITY AT BATANG … Fauna Composition... · The fisheries production of Batang Ai Hydroelectric Reservoir was estimated to be 1'1.17 kg ha -I :

usAf Kill mat Makluma Ak demi~ NIV SIT M LAYS A SAR WAK

FISH FAUNA COMPOSITION AND WATER QUALITY AT BATANG AI

HYDROELECTRIC RESERVOIR LUBOK ANTU SARA W AK

Nur Ezzaty binti Nazarudin (37924)

This project is submitted in partial fulfilment of the requirement for degree of Bachelor of

Science with Honours

(Aquatic Resources Science Management)

Faculty of Resources Science and Technology

UNIVERSITY MALAYSIA SARAWAK

2015

I

DECLARAnON

I Nur Ezzaty binti Nazarudin final year student of Aquatic Resource Science and

Management hereby declare that this report is my own work and effort with guidance of

my supervisor Prof Dr Lee Nyanti No part of this report has previously been submitted

for any other degree university or institution of higher learning

g (NUR EZZATY NAZARUDIN)

Aquatic Resource Science and Management

Faculty of Resource Science and Technology

The project entitled Fish Fauna Composition and Water Quality at Batang Ai

Hydroelectric Reservoir Lubok Antu Sarawak was prepared by Nur Ezzaty binti

Nazarudin and submitted to the Faculty of Resources Science and Technology in partial

fulfilment of the requirements for the Degree of Bachelor (Honours) in Aquatic Science

and Management

Received for examination by

( )

Date

111

)

Acknowledgement

I am so grateful to be able to finish up this project I would like to specially thank my

dearest supervisor Professor Dr Lee Nyanti on the guidance support and assistance I also

would like to convey special thanks to my family especially my dearest father and mother

for the moral support and encouragement given I would like to express special gratitude to

my project-mate Noor Iskandar Noor Azhar for his assistance during the field trip and

your continuous support in my thesis writing Thanks to my fellow coursemates who had

experienced difficulties together including staying in the lab overnight and also thanks to

my peers under the same supervisor Daniel Nakhaie Juliana Kirollina Jane Goh and

Fakharudin for their valuable advice I am also thankful for the support of the Faculty of

Resources Science and Technology and the help provided by the laboratory assistants of

the Department of Aquatic Science especially Mr Zaidi Mr Mohd Nor Azlan Mr

Richard Toh Mr Nasri Latib and Mr Mustapha Kamal Last but not least I am also

thankful to SALCRA especially Mr Raymond and Ms Umi for the assistance given The

financial support provided by Sarawak Energy Berhad through the research grant no

GL(F07)SEBSA20 13 (28) is gratefully acknowledged

IV

rem K i mat Mak lImat Akadem ik WAK

Table of Content

Title amp Front Cover

Declaration 11

Acknowledgement IV

Table of Contents v

List of Abbreviations V11

List of Figures viii

List of Tables IX

List of Appendices x

Abstract

10 Introduction 2 20 Literature Review 4

21 Reservoir 4

22 Threats to Malaysian reservoir 4

23 Damming 5

24 Fish inventory in Batang Ai National Park 5 30 Materials and Methods 6

31 Study Site 6

32 Sample Collection 7

33 Sample Preservation 8

34 Sample Identification 8

35 Stomach Content Collection Preservation and Identification 8

36 In-situ Parameters 9

37 Ex-situ Parameters 9

371 Five-Day Biochemical Oxygen Demand 9

312 Total Suspended Solids (TSS~ 10

373 Chlorophyll-a analysis 11 374 Nitrate-N 12 375 Nitrite-N 13 376 Ammonia-N 13 377 Orthophosphate 14

38 Indices 14

381 Shannon - Weiners Diversity Index 14

382 Margaejs Species Richness Index 15

v

383 Pieou s Evenness Index 15 384 Length-weight Relationship and Condition Factor 15

39 Statistical Analysis 16 40 Results 17

41 Fish fauna composition 17 42 In-situ parameter 18

421

422

423

424

415

416

Transparency 18 Temperature 19 pH 20 Dissolved oxygen 21 Turbidity 22 Conductivity 23

43 Ex-situ parameter 24 43 1 Biological oxygen demand (BODs) 24 43 2 Total suspended solids (TSS) 25 433 Chlorophyll-a 26 434 Nitrate 27 435 Nitrite 28 436 Ammonia 29 43 7 Orthophosphate 30

44 Length-weight relationship 31 45 Species Diversity Richness and Evennes 33 46 The stomach content and frequency of occurrence 33

50 Discussion 35 60 Summary 42 70 References 43 80 Appendices 50

VI

J-

degC

J-lm

BOD

BANP

BAHR

D

DO

J-lm

GSI

H

HSI

J

km

LEWS

m

mgL

mm

N

N02shy

N03shy

TSS

LIST OF ABBREVIATION

Degree Ce1cius

Micrometer

Biochemical Oxygen Demand

Batang Ai National Park

Batang Ai Hydroelectric Reservoir

Margalefs Species Richness Index

Dissolved Oxygen

Microsiemen

Gonadosomatic Index

Shannon - Weiner s Diversity Index

Hepatosomatic Index

Pie lou s Evenness Index middot

Kilometer

Lanjak Entimau Wildlife Sanctuary

meter

milligram per litre

millimetre

Nitrogen

Nitrite

Nitrate

Total Suspended Solids

VB

Figures

Figure 1

Figure 2

Figure 3

Figure 4

Figure 5

Figure 6

Figure 7

Figure 8

Figure 9

Figure 10

Figure 11

Figure 12

Figure 13

Figure 14

Figure 15

Figure 16

LIST OF FIGURES

Title

The location of sampling stations at Batang Ai

Reservoir Dam Sarawak (Source Google Earth 2014)

Percentage of family caught in Batang Ai Reservoir

Comparisons of transparency among stations

Comparisons of temperature among depths

Comparisons of pH among depths

Comparisons of dissolved oxygen among depths

Comparisons of turbidity among depths

Comparisons of conductivity among depths

Comparisons ofBOD5 among depths

Comparisons of mean T~S among depths

Comparisons of mean Chl-a among depths

Comparisons of nitrate among depths

Comparisons of nitrite among depths

Comparisons of ammonia among depths

Comparisons of orthophosphate among depths

Length-weight relationship for the three fish species

Pages

6

17

19

20

21

22

23

24

25

26

27

28

29

30

31

32

Vlll I

Tables

Table 1

Table 2

Table 3

Table 4

Table 5

Table 6

Table 7

LIST OF TABLES

Titles Pages

Coordinates and locations of sampling stations 6

Fishing methods and habitat description 7

Species composition of fish caught at Batang Ai reservoir 18

Length-weight relationship and condition factor (K) for the 31

three dominant species

Species Diversity Species Richness and Species Evenness in 33

Batang Ai Reservoir

Stomach content and frequency of occurrence for the three 34

dominant species

Results of mass method for the three dominant species 34

IX

J

LIST OF APPENDICES

Appendix Titles Pages

Appendix 1 Vegetation that was not removed during impoundment 50

Appendix 2 Logging activity at the upstream of Batang Ai Bydroshy 50

electric Reservoir

Appendix 3 Cage culture activity 51

Appendix 4 Mass growing of rooted aquatic plant 51

x

Fish Fauna Composition and Water Quality at Batang Ai Hydroelectric Reservoir

Lubok Antu Sarawak

Nur Ezzaty binti Nazarudin

Science and Aquatic Resources Management

Faculty of Resources Science and Technology

University Malaysia Sarawak

ABSTRACT

This study was carried out in October 2014 and February 2015 to determine the fish species composition and

water quality at Batang Ai Hydroelectric reservoir area A total of six sampling stations were selected in this

tudy Fourteen water quality parameters were documented based on in-situ and ex-situ laboratory analysis that

were carried out according to the APHA (2000) methods A total of 992 individuals consisting of 20 species

from 8 families were caught in Batang Ai Hydro-electric reservoir The three most dominant species were

Cyclocheilichti1ys apogon Osteochilus wandersii and Barbonymus schwanenfeldii Results for in-situ water

qual ity parameters were pH (622-832) dissolved oxygen (07-83 mglL) conductivity (63-1207 -IScm)

temperature (263-31 3 degC) transparency (1 02-427 m) and turbidity (000-3466 FNU) For ex-situ water

quality parameters results of BODs ranged from 07-63 mgL TSS (0002-0043 giL) chlorophyll-a (170 to

3585 mglL) and for nutrients (ammonical nitrogen 003 to 253 mglL nitrate 001 to 021 mgL

orthophosphate 002 to 204 mgL and Nitrite 0001 to 0117 mgL) The fisheries production of Batang Ai

Hydroelectric Reservoir was estimated to be 1117 kg ha -I yr- I to 2067 kg ha-I yr- I Aquaculture and other

anthropogenic activities occurring within the surrounding areas of the reservoir may have negatively impacted

the water quality of Batang Ai Hydro-electric reservoir

ABSTRAK

Kajian telah dijalankan pada bulan Oktober 2014 dan Februari 2015 untuk menentukan komposisi spesies ikan

dan kualiti air di kawasan Empangan Hidro-elektrik Satang Ai Enam stesen pensampelan telah dipilih dalam

kajian ini Empatbelas parameter kualiti air telah didokumentasikan berdasarkan penganalissan in-situ dan exshysitll pen ampelan dengan mengikuti cara APHA (2000) Sebanyak 992 ekor ikan telah ditangkap terdiri daripada

20 spesies daripada 8 famili di Empangan Hidro-elektrik Satang Ai Tiga spesies dominan adalah

Cycocheilichlhys apoeon Osteochilus wandersii and Barbonymus schwanenfeldii Hasil kajian in-situ adalah

pH (622-832) oksigen terlarut (07-83 mglL) konduktiviti (63-1207 -IScm) suhu (263-313 degC) kejemihan

(102-427 m) dan kekeruhan (000-3466 FNU) Untuk kajian ex-situ hasil kajian untuk SODs adalah 07-63 mglL TSS (0002-0043 gil) klorofil-a (1 70 to 3585 mglL) dan untuk nutrien (ammonical nitrogen 003 to

253 mgL nitrat 001 to 021 mglL orthofosfat 002 to 204 mgL and nitrit 0001 to 0117 mgL) Produksi

ikan oleh Empangan Hidro-elektrik Batang Ai dianggarkan 1117 kg ha- I yr- I kepada 2067 kg ha- I yr- I

Akuakultur dan aktiviti lain berpunca daripada kegiatan manusia yang berlaku di sekeliling kawasan empangan

telah memberi kesan negatif kepada Empangan Hidro-elektrik Satang Ai

1

10 Introduction

Dams and reservoir have been designed for multiple purposes such as for irrigation

water supply tourism purposes aquaculture site and cage culture (Nyanti et al 2012)

Morley (2007) stated that due to high worldwide demand for water the creation of reservoirs

are unavoidable However this water body could also be polluted due to anthropogenic

activities A study in three biggest natural lakes in Malaysia showed that different levels of

degradation occurred due to discharged oil from motorboat untreated sewage from

communities and nearby plantations (Sharip and Zakaria 2008)

Batang Ai Hydroelectric Reservoir (BAHR) was impounded in 19851t is located 260

km from Kuching and has a surface area of 84 ha at full supply with catchment area of 1200

km~ BAHR receives inflow water from two main rivers which are Batang Ai and the Engkari

River

Malaysia has a variety of freshwater fish speCIes rangmg from dominant to rare

species A study by Chong et al (2010) stated that Malaysia has approximately 521 species

of freshwater fish A total of 63 species of fish is present in Batang Ai National Park

(Abdullah 2004) Freshwater fish is very important in several aspects that involves aquatic

ecosystem for example as the indicator for the water quality (Fausch et al 1990) and nutrient

status of the surrounding water (Hamid et al 2012)

Reseaf(~h in freshwater fisheries in Malaysia were gIven little attention when

compared to the marine fisheries This resulted in fewer information on total catch landings

and on consumption of the fishes (Salam and Gopinath 2006) Very little information on fish

fauna composition and total catch landings in BAHR have been documented According to

Jalal et al (2012) due to the damming the decline in fish community and fisheries are caused

by factors such as overexploitation of species pollution and changes in the environment The

production of fisheries depends on many factors such as cost season and types of fishing gear

2

used Abu Talib et al (2003) stated that fisheries in reservoir is done individually or in a

small group by using seine net trap as well as hook and line

The composition richness evenness and diversity were measured in order to

document the fish fauna composition at the BAHR The stomach contents of fish were

analyzed to study the feeding habits of three dominant species in BAHR The water quality

analysis were also conducted at three different areas

The objectives of this study were to

1 Document the current fish species composition and total catch of commercial fisheries

at Batang Ai Hydroelectric Reservoir

2 Determine the length-weight relationship and feeding behaviour of the dominant

species and

3 Document the water quality at selected stations

20 Literature Review

21 Reservoir

According to Thornton et al (1992) a reservoir is any natural water that has been

modified or managed to provide water for developing human activities and demands in

response to specific community needs It is often called impoundments with subsequent

inundation of the upstream land surface formed by a dam across a river The upper part of the

reservoir has a similar characteristics with the river due to the inflow of water from the river

while the lower part of the reservoir is very similar to the lake because of its stratification

(Holmgren amp Appelberg 2000)

The construction of hydroelectric dams reservoirs and artificial lakes in Malaysia

leads to destruction of the surrounding ecosystem It will affect the aquatic environment

water quality and composition of fishes Diversions from the construction of the dam will

cause big changes in topology and morphology of the river Study on water quality at Bera

Lake shows that water quality was highly ~ffected by the run-off from the nearby plantation

sewage from the communities around the lake and discharged oil from motorboats (Chong

2007) According to Fatimah et al (2002) strong thermal stratification occur in Kenyir Lake

throughout the year during both dry and wet season A study by Chong (2007) showed that

Bera Lake has high presence of nutrient

22 Threats tomiddotMalaysian reservoir

Fish communities in reservoir are facing many environmental manipulations and

degradations such as water management and fluctuation homesteading and ririparian land

development (Ali and Lee 1995) It will affect the aquatic environment water quality and the

composition of fishes Diversions from the construction of the dam will cause big changes in

topology and morphology of the river The main environmental factor that influence fish

distribution are the concentration of oxygen width depth and leaves-dead wood substrates

Pusat Khid~at M~klumat Akademik UNIVERSITI MALAYSIA SARAWAK

(Kouamelan et al 2003) The most crucial threat is over-fishing which will disturb the

nature of the fish its habitat and lower its biodiversity

23 Damming

According to Friedl amp Wiiest (2001) 800 000 artificial lakes and reservoirs have been

built which is equivalent to approximately 500 000 km2 of the land or is almost 3 of the

entire land surface on the earth Damming of rivers is truly important to sustain the

anthropogenic need such as for drinking washing other daily and industrial uses According

to Yusoff et al (2006) the water demand in Malaysia for both domestic and industrial uses

are increasing significantly from 26 billion m3 in 1990 to 37 billion m3 in 2000 Without

enough water supplies it will cause problems to daily routine for the community and

damming is the easiest way to solve it Hence they are 54 dams operated in Malaysia with the

total capacity of 12 biIlion m3year to cover the demand (Yusoff et at 2006) The purpose of

Batang Ai reservoir was for hydroelectric generation and it is also important sources of

energy producer for the Sarawak Corridor Additionally it is also act as important aquaculture

site (Ling et al 2013)

24 Fish inventory in Batang Ai National Park

Commercial fisheries play an important roles in the lives of fishing communities in

Malaysia Ali and Lee (1995) stated that commercial fish plays an important role In

Chenderoh Bukit Merah and Temenggor reservoirs the fish composition consisted of catfish

(Mystus sp) snakeheads (Channa micropeltis) cyprinids (Hampala macrolepidota Tor

tambroides Puntius bulu) Osphronemus gouramy and other species (Baluyut 1999 DOF

1998)

In Batang Ai National Park a total of 26 species from 9 families was reported by

Abdullah (2004) In addition to the earlier study done by Meredith (1993) a total of 63

species were reportedly present in Batang Ai National Park The dominant family IS

Cyprinidae followed by Ballitoridae (Abdullah 2004)

30 Materials and Methods

31 Study Site

This study was conducted at Batang Ai Hydroelectric Reservoir Six stations were

selected for water quality data collection Three stations were at the tributaries of the reservoir

and three stations were at the cage culture area (Figure 1) The coordinates for each station

was recorded using the Global Positioning System (GPS) (Gannin GPSmap 628) (Table 1)

Figure 1 The location of sampling stations at Batang Ai Reservoir Dam Sarawak (Source

Google Earth 2015)

6

Table 1 Coordinates and locations of sampling stations

Station Coordinates Locations

1 N 01 0 14 482 E 1120 02 140 Delok

2 NOlo 13033 E 111 0 58587 Telaus

3 NOlo 11155 E 111 0 52 102 Sungai Bungui

4 N 01 0 09 223 E 111 0 50 291 At the edge of the reservoir

5 NOl o 09 330 E 111 0 50 384 Near Tiang Laju cage culture

6 N 01 0 10 060 E 111 0 54 430 Kerangan Mong

32 Sample Collection

Several types of net that were used for fish collection were gill net with different mesh

sizes (254 cm 508 cm 1016 cm and 127 cm) and three-layered gill net (14 cm 4 cm and

14 cm) Sampling procedures were similar for every station where the nets was left overnight

before being retrieved the next day and habitat description were also noted for every station

(Table 2)

Table 2 Fishing methods and habitat description

Stations Fishing methods Habitat description

Three-layered net gill net

2 Three-layered net gill net

3 Three-layered net gin net

4 Three-layered net gill net

5 Three-layered net gill net

6 Three-layered net gill net

Lowest water level Hill paddy season

already burned near to logging site

At the edge of reservoir

Near to Able Asia cage culture

Greenish water 1200 cage at mouth of

this area

At the edge of reservoir

At the edge of reservoir

At the edge of reservoir

33 Sample Preservation

Fish samples was preserved in the field by using 10 formalin and was left for

approximately 72 hours before the samples were rinsed and soaked in tap water for ten

minutes and transferred into 70 ethanol for further laboratory analysis and preservation

purposes

34 Sample Identification

Fish samples was identified by using the taxonomy keys from Mohsin amp Ambak

(1991) Inger amp Chin (2002) Kottelat et al (1993) and FishBase

(httpfishbaseorgsearchphp) After the sample identification the fish was weighed by

using Shimadzu EDLB300 portable balance The total length and standard length were also

measured by using a ruler The total length is the measurement from the tip of the mouth to

the end of tail while the standard length is the measurement from the tip of the mouth to the

end of fleshy caudal peduncle (Kotelat et al 1993) After the whole process of sample

identification all of the samples were grouped together according to their species Fish

samples were kept in specimen bottles that were labelled with station number coordinates and

date of sampling

35 Stomach Content

Thirty individuals from three dominant species were selected for stomach content

analysis The stomach was weighed by using balance (Shimadzu ELB 300) after was

dissected from the fish The stomach was then preserved in 5 formalin In the laboratory

the stomach was placed in petri dish dissected by using dissecting kit (Gold cross) and the

content was analyzed under stereomicroscope (Olympus SZ51) The content was sorted

according to their type and each type of the food was weighed Other information such as the

empty mass of the stomach volume and length were recorded Stomach content then was

8

analyzed by using Frequency of Occurrence (FO) and Mass Method (MM) FO was used to

calculate the frequent types of food occur in selected species while MM was used to evaluate

the diet composition of each type of species The analysis used the following formula

Frequency of Occurrence

Nf h Dmiddot FOtS I X 100let i =

NfiSh

Mass Method

~~fiSllW 611 IJDiet 112 = x 100 E tlShW

J=l J

36 In-situ Parameters Collection

In-situ physico-chemical water quality parameters such as pH temperature dissolved

oxygen and turbidity was recorded in triplicate at three different depths In additions water

depth and transparency was also recorded ~n triplicate

The depth was recorded by using depth finder (Speedtech Instruments 67505) The pH

was recorded by using pH meter (Eutech Instruments) DO and temperature by using DO

meter (Sper Scientific 850041) and water transparency was recorded by using Secchi Disc

(KAHLSICO No 281 W A 1088 W AP - 4669) Water turbidity was determined by using

MARTINI instrument (Mi 415)

37 Ex-situ Parameters

371 Five-Day Biochemical Oxygen Demand (BODs)

Water samples at each station was collected by using a Van Dorn water sampler in

triplicates at three depthssub-surface layer (02 m) mid layer (10m) and bottom layer (20

m) They were placed in 1 L of acid washed polyethylene bottles and stored in cooler boxes

before being transported to laboratory for analyses According to APHA (2000) BOD5 test

was done at day 5 Initial DO reading was measured at the sampling site and the water sample

was transferred into 300 ml BOD glass bottle The bottle was wrapped with aluminium foil to

prevent penetration of sunlight and photosynthesis process They were then wrapped with

newspaper to prevent from being broken during transportation The samples were left in a

cooler box for 5 days After 5 days the final DO reading was determined using DO meter

(Sper Scientific 850041) The BOD5 value was determined by using the formula

BOD5 (mglL) = (DO 1 - 005)

where

0 0 1== dissolved oxygen of sample at day 1 (mgL)

DOs == dissolved oxygen after 5 days incubation at 20middotC (mgL)

372 Total Suspended Solids (TSS)

Total suspended analysis was divided into two parts which were pre-fieldtrip sampling

method and post-sampling fieldtrip method For pre-field trip sampling method filter paper

was prepared Glass fibre filter papers (GFIC 47 mm diameter 045 )lm membrane) was

rinsed with di tilled water placed on a piece of aluminium paper and left overnight at 103shy

105 OC in the oven The next day the filter paper that was left to cool in the desiccator before

the initial weight were weighed by using electronic balance For post-field trip sampling

method filtrat iOn process was carried out by usin~ vacuum filtration Water samples at each

station were collected by using a Van Dorn water sampler in triplicates at three depths of subshy

surface layer (02 m) mid layer (10 m) and bottom layer (20 m) A volume of water sample

(shaken well) was poured into the filter funnel Once all of the water has been drained out

filter paper was removed from the filtration funnel and placed into the aluminium foil The

filter paper then was dried in oven at 103-105 degC for 2 hours (APHA 2000) The filter paper

was taken out and allowed to cool before it was weighed again The drying process was

continued until a constant weight was achieved The amount of TSS was determined by using

the fonnula

TSS (mgl) = final weight (mg) - initial weight (mg) volume of water (1000 ml)

373 Cbloropbyll-a analysis

One litre water sample was filtered by using vacuum pump in semi dark room The

filter paper containing chlorophyll-a was analyzed and grounded by using grinder for 5

minutes Then 5 to 6 mL of 90 acetone was added into each sample Samples were

transferred into capped test tube and 90 acetone was added into the test tube to make up the

10 mL volume The test tube then was wrapped with aluminium foil and placed in the

refrigerator at 4 degC for 4 to 18 hours to facilitate the complete extraction of the pigments The

liquid then was transferred into centrifuge tube and placed into centrifuge for 10 minutes

under 3000 rpm The optical density was determined by using spectrophotometer at 750 nm

664 run 647 nrn and 630 nm wavelength Extinction for each of the small turbidity blank was

corrected by subtracting 750 nm from 664nm 647 nm and 630 nm absorptions (APHA

2000) The concentration of chlorophyll-a in the extract after correction was calculated as

below

Chlorophyll-a = 1185 (E664-E750) - 154 (E647-E750) - 008 (E630-E750)

where

E = The ~bsorption in the respective wavelength

Calculation of the chlorophyll-a amount per unit volume is as follow

Chl-a (mgL) = (Ca x v) V

where

Ca =Chlorophyll concentration in lgmL

v = Volume of acetone in mL

V = Volume of sample in mL

Page 5: FISH FAUNA COMPOSITION AND WATER QUALITY AT BATANG … Fauna Composition... · The fisheries production of Batang Ai Hydroelectric Reservoir was estimated to be 1'1.17 kg ha -I :

I

DECLARAnON

I Nur Ezzaty binti Nazarudin final year student of Aquatic Resource Science and

Management hereby declare that this report is my own work and effort with guidance of

my supervisor Prof Dr Lee Nyanti No part of this report has previously been submitted

for any other degree university or institution of higher learning

g (NUR EZZATY NAZARUDIN)

Aquatic Resource Science and Management

Faculty of Resource Science and Technology

The project entitled Fish Fauna Composition and Water Quality at Batang Ai

Hydroelectric Reservoir Lubok Antu Sarawak was prepared by Nur Ezzaty binti

Nazarudin and submitted to the Faculty of Resources Science and Technology in partial

fulfilment of the requirements for the Degree of Bachelor (Honours) in Aquatic Science

and Management

Received for examination by

( )

Date

111

)

Acknowledgement

I am so grateful to be able to finish up this project I would like to specially thank my

dearest supervisor Professor Dr Lee Nyanti on the guidance support and assistance I also

would like to convey special thanks to my family especially my dearest father and mother

for the moral support and encouragement given I would like to express special gratitude to

my project-mate Noor Iskandar Noor Azhar for his assistance during the field trip and

your continuous support in my thesis writing Thanks to my fellow coursemates who had

experienced difficulties together including staying in the lab overnight and also thanks to

my peers under the same supervisor Daniel Nakhaie Juliana Kirollina Jane Goh and

Fakharudin for their valuable advice I am also thankful for the support of the Faculty of

Resources Science and Technology and the help provided by the laboratory assistants of

the Department of Aquatic Science especially Mr Zaidi Mr Mohd Nor Azlan Mr

Richard Toh Mr Nasri Latib and Mr Mustapha Kamal Last but not least I am also

thankful to SALCRA especially Mr Raymond and Ms Umi for the assistance given The

financial support provided by Sarawak Energy Berhad through the research grant no

GL(F07)SEBSA20 13 (28) is gratefully acknowledged

IV

rem K i mat Mak lImat Akadem ik WAK

Table of Content

Title amp Front Cover

Declaration 11

Acknowledgement IV

Table of Contents v

List of Abbreviations V11

List of Figures viii

List of Tables IX

List of Appendices x

Abstract

10 Introduction 2 20 Literature Review 4

21 Reservoir 4

22 Threats to Malaysian reservoir 4

23 Damming 5

24 Fish inventory in Batang Ai National Park 5 30 Materials and Methods 6

31 Study Site 6

32 Sample Collection 7

33 Sample Preservation 8

34 Sample Identification 8

35 Stomach Content Collection Preservation and Identification 8

36 In-situ Parameters 9

37 Ex-situ Parameters 9

371 Five-Day Biochemical Oxygen Demand 9

312 Total Suspended Solids (TSS~ 10

373 Chlorophyll-a analysis 11 374 Nitrate-N 12 375 Nitrite-N 13 376 Ammonia-N 13 377 Orthophosphate 14

38 Indices 14

381 Shannon - Weiners Diversity Index 14

382 Margaejs Species Richness Index 15

v

383 Pieou s Evenness Index 15 384 Length-weight Relationship and Condition Factor 15

39 Statistical Analysis 16 40 Results 17

41 Fish fauna composition 17 42 In-situ parameter 18

421

422

423

424

415

416

Transparency 18 Temperature 19 pH 20 Dissolved oxygen 21 Turbidity 22 Conductivity 23

43 Ex-situ parameter 24 43 1 Biological oxygen demand (BODs) 24 43 2 Total suspended solids (TSS) 25 433 Chlorophyll-a 26 434 Nitrate 27 435 Nitrite 28 436 Ammonia 29 43 7 Orthophosphate 30

44 Length-weight relationship 31 45 Species Diversity Richness and Evennes 33 46 The stomach content and frequency of occurrence 33

50 Discussion 35 60 Summary 42 70 References 43 80 Appendices 50

VI

J-

degC

J-lm

BOD

BANP

BAHR

D

DO

J-lm

GSI

H

HSI

J

km

LEWS

m

mgL

mm

N

N02shy

N03shy

TSS

LIST OF ABBREVIATION

Degree Ce1cius

Micrometer

Biochemical Oxygen Demand

Batang Ai National Park

Batang Ai Hydroelectric Reservoir

Margalefs Species Richness Index

Dissolved Oxygen

Microsiemen

Gonadosomatic Index

Shannon - Weiner s Diversity Index

Hepatosomatic Index

Pie lou s Evenness Index middot

Kilometer

Lanjak Entimau Wildlife Sanctuary

meter

milligram per litre

millimetre

Nitrogen

Nitrite

Nitrate

Total Suspended Solids

VB

Figures

Figure 1

Figure 2

Figure 3

Figure 4

Figure 5

Figure 6

Figure 7

Figure 8

Figure 9

Figure 10

Figure 11

Figure 12

Figure 13

Figure 14

Figure 15

Figure 16

LIST OF FIGURES

Title

The location of sampling stations at Batang Ai

Reservoir Dam Sarawak (Source Google Earth 2014)

Percentage of family caught in Batang Ai Reservoir

Comparisons of transparency among stations

Comparisons of temperature among depths

Comparisons of pH among depths

Comparisons of dissolved oxygen among depths

Comparisons of turbidity among depths

Comparisons of conductivity among depths

Comparisons ofBOD5 among depths

Comparisons of mean T~S among depths

Comparisons of mean Chl-a among depths

Comparisons of nitrate among depths

Comparisons of nitrite among depths

Comparisons of ammonia among depths

Comparisons of orthophosphate among depths

Length-weight relationship for the three fish species

Pages

6

17

19

20

21

22

23

24

25

26

27

28

29

30

31

32

Vlll I

Tables

Table 1

Table 2

Table 3

Table 4

Table 5

Table 6

Table 7

LIST OF TABLES

Titles Pages

Coordinates and locations of sampling stations 6

Fishing methods and habitat description 7

Species composition of fish caught at Batang Ai reservoir 18

Length-weight relationship and condition factor (K) for the 31

three dominant species

Species Diversity Species Richness and Species Evenness in 33

Batang Ai Reservoir

Stomach content and frequency of occurrence for the three 34

dominant species

Results of mass method for the three dominant species 34

IX

J

LIST OF APPENDICES

Appendix Titles Pages

Appendix 1 Vegetation that was not removed during impoundment 50

Appendix 2 Logging activity at the upstream of Batang Ai Bydroshy 50

electric Reservoir

Appendix 3 Cage culture activity 51

Appendix 4 Mass growing of rooted aquatic plant 51

x

Fish Fauna Composition and Water Quality at Batang Ai Hydroelectric Reservoir

Lubok Antu Sarawak

Nur Ezzaty binti Nazarudin

Science and Aquatic Resources Management

Faculty of Resources Science and Technology

University Malaysia Sarawak

ABSTRACT

This study was carried out in October 2014 and February 2015 to determine the fish species composition and

water quality at Batang Ai Hydroelectric reservoir area A total of six sampling stations were selected in this

tudy Fourteen water quality parameters were documented based on in-situ and ex-situ laboratory analysis that

were carried out according to the APHA (2000) methods A total of 992 individuals consisting of 20 species

from 8 families were caught in Batang Ai Hydro-electric reservoir The three most dominant species were

Cyclocheilichti1ys apogon Osteochilus wandersii and Barbonymus schwanenfeldii Results for in-situ water

qual ity parameters were pH (622-832) dissolved oxygen (07-83 mglL) conductivity (63-1207 -IScm)

temperature (263-31 3 degC) transparency (1 02-427 m) and turbidity (000-3466 FNU) For ex-situ water

quality parameters results of BODs ranged from 07-63 mgL TSS (0002-0043 giL) chlorophyll-a (170 to

3585 mglL) and for nutrients (ammonical nitrogen 003 to 253 mglL nitrate 001 to 021 mgL

orthophosphate 002 to 204 mgL and Nitrite 0001 to 0117 mgL) The fisheries production of Batang Ai

Hydroelectric Reservoir was estimated to be 1117 kg ha -I yr- I to 2067 kg ha-I yr- I Aquaculture and other

anthropogenic activities occurring within the surrounding areas of the reservoir may have negatively impacted

the water quality of Batang Ai Hydro-electric reservoir

ABSTRAK

Kajian telah dijalankan pada bulan Oktober 2014 dan Februari 2015 untuk menentukan komposisi spesies ikan

dan kualiti air di kawasan Empangan Hidro-elektrik Satang Ai Enam stesen pensampelan telah dipilih dalam

kajian ini Empatbelas parameter kualiti air telah didokumentasikan berdasarkan penganalissan in-situ dan exshysitll pen ampelan dengan mengikuti cara APHA (2000) Sebanyak 992 ekor ikan telah ditangkap terdiri daripada

20 spesies daripada 8 famili di Empangan Hidro-elektrik Satang Ai Tiga spesies dominan adalah

Cycocheilichlhys apoeon Osteochilus wandersii and Barbonymus schwanenfeldii Hasil kajian in-situ adalah

pH (622-832) oksigen terlarut (07-83 mglL) konduktiviti (63-1207 -IScm) suhu (263-313 degC) kejemihan

(102-427 m) dan kekeruhan (000-3466 FNU) Untuk kajian ex-situ hasil kajian untuk SODs adalah 07-63 mglL TSS (0002-0043 gil) klorofil-a (1 70 to 3585 mglL) dan untuk nutrien (ammonical nitrogen 003 to

253 mgL nitrat 001 to 021 mglL orthofosfat 002 to 204 mgL and nitrit 0001 to 0117 mgL) Produksi

ikan oleh Empangan Hidro-elektrik Batang Ai dianggarkan 1117 kg ha- I yr- I kepada 2067 kg ha- I yr- I

Akuakultur dan aktiviti lain berpunca daripada kegiatan manusia yang berlaku di sekeliling kawasan empangan

telah memberi kesan negatif kepada Empangan Hidro-elektrik Satang Ai

1

10 Introduction

Dams and reservoir have been designed for multiple purposes such as for irrigation

water supply tourism purposes aquaculture site and cage culture (Nyanti et al 2012)

Morley (2007) stated that due to high worldwide demand for water the creation of reservoirs

are unavoidable However this water body could also be polluted due to anthropogenic

activities A study in three biggest natural lakes in Malaysia showed that different levels of

degradation occurred due to discharged oil from motorboat untreated sewage from

communities and nearby plantations (Sharip and Zakaria 2008)

Batang Ai Hydroelectric Reservoir (BAHR) was impounded in 19851t is located 260

km from Kuching and has a surface area of 84 ha at full supply with catchment area of 1200

km~ BAHR receives inflow water from two main rivers which are Batang Ai and the Engkari

River

Malaysia has a variety of freshwater fish speCIes rangmg from dominant to rare

species A study by Chong et al (2010) stated that Malaysia has approximately 521 species

of freshwater fish A total of 63 species of fish is present in Batang Ai National Park

(Abdullah 2004) Freshwater fish is very important in several aspects that involves aquatic

ecosystem for example as the indicator for the water quality (Fausch et al 1990) and nutrient

status of the surrounding water (Hamid et al 2012)

Reseaf(~h in freshwater fisheries in Malaysia were gIven little attention when

compared to the marine fisheries This resulted in fewer information on total catch landings

and on consumption of the fishes (Salam and Gopinath 2006) Very little information on fish

fauna composition and total catch landings in BAHR have been documented According to

Jalal et al (2012) due to the damming the decline in fish community and fisheries are caused

by factors such as overexploitation of species pollution and changes in the environment The

production of fisheries depends on many factors such as cost season and types of fishing gear

2

used Abu Talib et al (2003) stated that fisheries in reservoir is done individually or in a

small group by using seine net trap as well as hook and line

The composition richness evenness and diversity were measured in order to

document the fish fauna composition at the BAHR The stomach contents of fish were

analyzed to study the feeding habits of three dominant species in BAHR The water quality

analysis were also conducted at three different areas

The objectives of this study were to

1 Document the current fish species composition and total catch of commercial fisheries

at Batang Ai Hydroelectric Reservoir

2 Determine the length-weight relationship and feeding behaviour of the dominant

species and

3 Document the water quality at selected stations

20 Literature Review

21 Reservoir

According to Thornton et al (1992) a reservoir is any natural water that has been

modified or managed to provide water for developing human activities and demands in

response to specific community needs It is often called impoundments with subsequent

inundation of the upstream land surface formed by a dam across a river The upper part of the

reservoir has a similar characteristics with the river due to the inflow of water from the river

while the lower part of the reservoir is very similar to the lake because of its stratification

(Holmgren amp Appelberg 2000)

The construction of hydroelectric dams reservoirs and artificial lakes in Malaysia

leads to destruction of the surrounding ecosystem It will affect the aquatic environment

water quality and composition of fishes Diversions from the construction of the dam will

cause big changes in topology and morphology of the river Study on water quality at Bera

Lake shows that water quality was highly ~ffected by the run-off from the nearby plantation

sewage from the communities around the lake and discharged oil from motorboats (Chong

2007) According to Fatimah et al (2002) strong thermal stratification occur in Kenyir Lake

throughout the year during both dry and wet season A study by Chong (2007) showed that

Bera Lake has high presence of nutrient

22 Threats tomiddotMalaysian reservoir

Fish communities in reservoir are facing many environmental manipulations and

degradations such as water management and fluctuation homesteading and ririparian land

development (Ali and Lee 1995) It will affect the aquatic environment water quality and the

composition of fishes Diversions from the construction of the dam will cause big changes in

topology and morphology of the river The main environmental factor that influence fish

distribution are the concentration of oxygen width depth and leaves-dead wood substrates

Pusat Khid~at M~klumat Akademik UNIVERSITI MALAYSIA SARAWAK

(Kouamelan et al 2003) The most crucial threat is over-fishing which will disturb the

nature of the fish its habitat and lower its biodiversity

23 Damming

According to Friedl amp Wiiest (2001) 800 000 artificial lakes and reservoirs have been

built which is equivalent to approximately 500 000 km2 of the land or is almost 3 of the

entire land surface on the earth Damming of rivers is truly important to sustain the

anthropogenic need such as for drinking washing other daily and industrial uses According

to Yusoff et al (2006) the water demand in Malaysia for both domestic and industrial uses

are increasing significantly from 26 billion m3 in 1990 to 37 billion m3 in 2000 Without

enough water supplies it will cause problems to daily routine for the community and

damming is the easiest way to solve it Hence they are 54 dams operated in Malaysia with the

total capacity of 12 biIlion m3year to cover the demand (Yusoff et at 2006) The purpose of

Batang Ai reservoir was for hydroelectric generation and it is also important sources of

energy producer for the Sarawak Corridor Additionally it is also act as important aquaculture

site (Ling et al 2013)

24 Fish inventory in Batang Ai National Park

Commercial fisheries play an important roles in the lives of fishing communities in

Malaysia Ali and Lee (1995) stated that commercial fish plays an important role In

Chenderoh Bukit Merah and Temenggor reservoirs the fish composition consisted of catfish

(Mystus sp) snakeheads (Channa micropeltis) cyprinids (Hampala macrolepidota Tor

tambroides Puntius bulu) Osphronemus gouramy and other species (Baluyut 1999 DOF

1998)

In Batang Ai National Park a total of 26 species from 9 families was reported by

Abdullah (2004) In addition to the earlier study done by Meredith (1993) a total of 63

species were reportedly present in Batang Ai National Park The dominant family IS

Cyprinidae followed by Ballitoridae (Abdullah 2004)

30 Materials and Methods

31 Study Site

This study was conducted at Batang Ai Hydroelectric Reservoir Six stations were

selected for water quality data collection Three stations were at the tributaries of the reservoir

and three stations were at the cage culture area (Figure 1) The coordinates for each station

was recorded using the Global Positioning System (GPS) (Gannin GPSmap 628) (Table 1)

Figure 1 The location of sampling stations at Batang Ai Reservoir Dam Sarawak (Source

Google Earth 2015)

6

Table 1 Coordinates and locations of sampling stations

Station Coordinates Locations

1 N 01 0 14 482 E 1120 02 140 Delok

2 NOlo 13033 E 111 0 58587 Telaus

3 NOlo 11155 E 111 0 52 102 Sungai Bungui

4 N 01 0 09 223 E 111 0 50 291 At the edge of the reservoir

5 NOl o 09 330 E 111 0 50 384 Near Tiang Laju cage culture

6 N 01 0 10 060 E 111 0 54 430 Kerangan Mong

32 Sample Collection

Several types of net that were used for fish collection were gill net with different mesh

sizes (254 cm 508 cm 1016 cm and 127 cm) and three-layered gill net (14 cm 4 cm and

14 cm) Sampling procedures were similar for every station where the nets was left overnight

before being retrieved the next day and habitat description were also noted for every station

(Table 2)

Table 2 Fishing methods and habitat description

Stations Fishing methods Habitat description

Three-layered net gill net

2 Three-layered net gill net

3 Three-layered net gin net

4 Three-layered net gill net

5 Three-layered net gill net

6 Three-layered net gill net

Lowest water level Hill paddy season

already burned near to logging site

At the edge of reservoir

Near to Able Asia cage culture

Greenish water 1200 cage at mouth of

this area

At the edge of reservoir

At the edge of reservoir

At the edge of reservoir

33 Sample Preservation

Fish samples was preserved in the field by using 10 formalin and was left for

approximately 72 hours before the samples were rinsed and soaked in tap water for ten

minutes and transferred into 70 ethanol for further laboratory analysis and preservation

purposes

34 Sample Identification

Fish samples was identified by using the taxonomy keys from Mohsin amp Ambak

(1991) Inger amp Chin (2002) Kottelat et al (1993) and FishBase

(httpfishbaseorgsearchphp) After the sample identification the fish was weighed by

using Shimadzu EDLB300 portable balance The total length and standard length were also

measured by using a ruler The total length is the measurement from the tip of the mouth to

the end of tail while the standard length is the measurement from the tip of the mouth to the

end of fleshy caudal peduncle (Kotelat et al 1993) After the whole process of sample

identification all of the samples were grouped together according to their species Fish

samples were kept in specimen bottles that were labelled with station number coordinates and

date of sampling

35 Stomach Content

Thirty individuals from three dominant species were selected for stomach content

analysis The stomach was weighed by using balance (Shimadzu ELB 300) after was

dissected from the fish The stomach was then preserved in 5 formalin In the laboratory

the stomach was placed in petri dish dissected by using dissecting kit (Gold cross) and the

content was analyzed under stereomicroscope (Olympus SZ51) The content was sorted

according to their type and each type of the food was weighed Other information such as the

empty mass of the stomach volume and length were recorded Stomach content then was

8

analyzed by using Frequency of Occurrence (FO) and Mass Method (MM) FO was used to

calculate the frequent types of food occur in selected species while MM was used to evaluate

the diet composition of each type of species The analysis used the following formula

Frequency of Occurrence

Nf h Dmiddot FOtS I X 100let i =

NfiSh

Mass Method

~~fiSllW 611 IJDiet 112 = x 100 E tlShW

J=l J

36 In-situ Parameters Collection

In-situ physico-chemical water quality parameters such as pH temperature dissolved

oxygen and turbidity was recorded in triplicate at three different depths In additions water

depth and transparency was also recorded ~n triplicate

The depth was recorded by using depth finder (Speedtech Instruments 67505) The pH

was recorded by using pH meter (Eutech Instruments) DO and temperature by using DO

meter (Sper Scientific 850041) and water transparency was recorded by using Secchi Disc

(KAHLSICO No 281 W A 1088 W AP - 4669) Water turbidity was determined by using

MARTINI instrument (Mi 415)

37 Ex-situ Parameters

371 Five-Day Biochemical Oxygen Demand (BODs)

Water samples at each station was collected by using a Van Dorn water sampler in

triplicates at three depthssub-surface layer (02 m) mid layer (10m) and bottom layer (20

m) They were placed in 1 L of acid washed polyethylene bottles and stored in cooler boxes

before being transported to laboratory for analyses According to APHA (2000) BOD5 test

was done at day 5 Initial DO reading was measured at the sampling site and the water sample

was transferred into 300 ml BOD glass bottle The bottle was wrapped with aluminium foil to

prevent penetration of sunlight and photosynthesis process They were then wrapped with

newspaper to prevent from being broken during transportation The samples were left in a

cooler box for 5 days After 5 days the final DO reading was determined using DO meter

(Sper Scientific 850041) The BOD5 value was determined by using the formula

BOD5 (mglL) = (DO 1 - 005)

where

0 0 1== dissolved oxygen of sample at day 1 (mgL)

DOs == dissolved oxygen after 5 days incubation at 20middotC (mgL)

372 Total Suspended Solids (TSS)

Total suspended analysis was divided into two parts which were pre-fieldtrip sampling

method and post-sampling fieldtrip method For pre-field trip sampling method filter paper

was prepared Glass fibre filter papers (GFIC 47 mm diameter 045 )lm membrane) was

rinsed with di tilled water placed on a piece of aluminium paper and left overnight at 103shy

105 OC in the oven The next day the filter paper that was left to cool in the desiccator before

the initial weight were weighed by using electronic balance For post-field trip sampling

method filtrat iOn process was carried out by usin~ vacuum filtration Water samples at each

station were collected by using a Van Dorn water sampler in triplicates at three depths of subshy

surface layer (02 m) mid layer (10 m) and bottom layer (20 m) A volume of water sample

(shaken well) was poured into the filter funnel Once all of the water has been drained out

filter paper was removed from the filtration funnel and placed into the aluminium foil The

filter paper then was dried in oven at 103-105 degC for 2 hours (APHA 2000) The filter paper

was taken out and allowed to cool before it was weighed again The drying process was

continued until a constant weight was achieved The amount of TSS was determined by using

the fonnula

TSS (mgl) = final weight (mg) - initial weight (mg) volume of water (1000 ml)

373 Cbloropbyll-a analysis

One litre water sample was filtered by using vacuum pump in semi dark room The

filter paper containing chlorophyll-a was analyzed and grounded by using grinder for 5

minutes Then 5 to 6 mL of 90 acetone was added into each sample Samples were

transferred into capped test tube and 90 acetone was added into the test tube to make up the

10 mL volume The test tube then was wrapped with aluminium foil and placed in the

refrigerator at 4 degC for 4 to 18 hours to facilitate the complete extraction of the pigments The

liquid then was transferred into centrifuge tube and placed into centrifuge for 10 minutes

under 3000 rpm The optical density was determined by using spectrophotometer at 750 nm

664 run 647 nrn and 630 nm wavelength Extinction for each of the small turbidity blank was

corrected by subtracting 750 nm from 664nm 647 nm and 630 nm absorptions (APHA

2000) The concentration of chlorophyll-a in the extract after correction was calculated as

below

Chlorophyll-a = 1185 (E664-E750) - 154 (E647-E750) - 008 (E630-E750)

where

E = The ~bsorption in the respective wavelength

Calculation of the chlorophyll-a amount per unit volume is as follow

Chl-a (mgL) = (Ca x v) V

where

Ca =Chlorophyll concentration in lgmL

v = Volume of acetone in mL

V = Volume of sample in mL

Page 6: FISH FAUNA COMPOSITION AND WATER QUALITY AT BATANG … Fauna Composition... · The fisheries production of Batang Ai Hydroelectric Reservoir was estimated to be 1'1.17 kg ha -I :

The project entitled Fish Fauna Composition and Water Quality at Batang Ai

Hydroelectric Reservoir Lubok Antu Sarawak was prepared by Nur Ezzaty binti

Nazarudin and submitted to the Faculty of Resources Science and Technology in partial

fulfilment of the requirements for the Degree of Bachelor (Honours) in Aquatic Science

and Management

Received for examination by

( )

Date

111

)

Acknowledgement

I am so grateful to be able to finish up this project I would like to specially thank my

dearest supervisor Professor Dr Lee Nyanti on the guidance support and assistance I also

would like to convey special thanks to my family especially my dearest father and mother

for the moral support and encouragement given I would like to express special gratitude to

my project-mate Noor Iskandar Noor Azhar for his assistance during the field trip and

your continuous support in my thesis writing Thanks to my fellow coursemates who had

experienced difficulties together including staying in the lab overnight and also thanks to

my peers under the same supervisor Daniel Nakhaie Juliana Kirollina Jane Goh and

Fakharudin for their valuable advice I am also thankful for the support of the Faculty of

Resources Science and Technology and the help provided by the laboratory assistants of

the Department of Aquatic Science especially Mr Zaidi Mr Mohd Nor Azlan Mr

Richard Toh Mr Nasri Latib and Mr Mustapha Kamal Last but not least I am also

thankful to SALCRA especially Mr Raymond and Ms Umi for the assistance given The

financial support provided by Sarawak Energy Berhad through the research grant no

GL(F07)SEBSA20 13 (28) is gratefully acknowledged

IV

rem K i mat Mak lImat Akadem ik WAK

Table of Content

Title amp Front Cover

Declaration 11

Acknowledgement IV

Table of Contents v

List of Abbreviations V11

List of Figures viii

List of Tables IX

List of Appendices x

Abstract

10 Introduction 2 20 Literature Review 4

21 Reservoir 4

22 Threats to Malaysian reservoir 4

23 Damming 5

24 Fish inventory in Batang Ai National Park 5 30 Materials and Methods 6

31 Study Site 6

32 Sample Collection 7

33 Sample Preservation 8

34 Sample Identification 8

35 Stomach Content Collection Preservation and Identification 8

36 In-situ Parameters 9

37 Ex-situ Parameters 9

371 Five-Day Biochemical Oxygen Demand 9

312 Total Suspended Solids (TSS~ 10

373 Chlorophyll-a analysis 11 374 Nitrate-N 12 375 Nitrite-N 13 376 Ammonia-N 13 377 Orthophosphate 14

38 Indices 14

381 Shannon - Weiners Diversity Index 14

382 Margaejs Species Richness Index 15

v

383 Pieou s Evenness Index 15 384 Length-weight Relationship and Condition Factor 15

39 Statistical Analysis 16 40 Results 17

41 Fish fauna composition 17 42 In-situ parameter 18

421

422

423

424

415

416

Transparency 18 Temperature 19 pH 20 Dissolved oxygen 21 Turbidity 22 Conductivity 23

43 Ex-situ parameter 24 43 1 Biological oxygen demand (BODs) 24 43 2 Total suspended solids (TSS) 25 433 Chlorophyll-a 26 434 Nitrate 27 435 Nitrite 28 436 Ammonia 29 43 7 Orthophosphate 30

44 Length-weight relationship 31 45 Species Diversity Richness and Evennes 33 46 The stomach content and frequency of occurrence 33

50 Discussion 35 60 Summary 42 70 References 43 80 Appendices 50

VI

J-

degC

J-lm

BOD

BANP

BAHR

D

DO

J-lm

GSI

H

HSI

J

km

LEWS

m

mgL

mm

N

N02shy

N03shy

TSS

LIST OF ABBREVIATION

Degree Ce1cius

Micrometer

Biochemical Oxygen Demand

Batang Ai National Park

Batang Ai Hydroelectric Reservoir

Margalefs Species Richness Index

Dissolved Oxygen

Microsiemen

Gonadosomatic Index

Shannon - Weiner s Diversity Index

Hepatosomatic Index

Pie lou s Evenness Index middot

Kilometer

Lanjak Entimau Wildlife Sanctuary

meter

milligram per litre

millimetre

Nitrogen

Nitrite

Nitrate

Total Suspended Solids

VB

Figures

Figure 1

Figure 2

Figure 3

Figure 4

Figure 5

Figure 6

Figure 7

Figure 8

Figure 9

Figure 10

Figure 11

Figure 12

Figure 13

Figure 14

Figure 15

Figure 16

LIST OF FIGURES

Title

The location of sampling stations at Batang Ai

Reservoir Dam Sarawak (Source Google Earth 2014)

Percentage of family caught in Batang Ai Reservoir

Comparisons of transparency among stations

Comparisons of temperature among depths

Comparisons of pH among depths

Comparisons of dissolved oxygen among depths

Comparisons of turbidity among depths

Comparisons of conductivity among depths

Comparisons ofBOD5 among depths

Comparisons of mean T~S among depths

Comparisons of mean Chl-a among depths

Comparisons of nitrate among depths

Comparisons of nitrite among depths

Comparisons of ammonia among depths

Comparisons of orthophosphate among depths

Length-weight relationship for the three fish species

Pages

6

17

19

20

21

22

23

24

25

26

27

28

29

30

31

32

Vlll I

Tables

Table 1

Table 2

Table 3

Table 4

Table 5

Table 6

Table 7

LIST OF TABLES

Titles Pages

Coordinates and locations of sampling stations 6

Fishing methods and habitat description 7

Species composition of fish caught at Batang Ai reservoir 18

Length-weight relationship and condition factor (K) for the 31

three dominant species

Species Diversity Species Richness and Species Evenness in 33

Batang Ai Reservoir

Stomach content and frequency of occurrence for the three 34

dominant species

Results of mass method for the three dominant species 34

IX

J

LIST OF APPENDICES

Appendix Titles Pages

Appendix 1 Vegetation that was not removed during impoundment 50

Appendix 2 Logging activity at the upstream of Batang Ai Bydroshy 50

electric Reservoir

Appendix 3 Cage culture activity 51

Appendix 4 Mass growing of rooted aquatic plant 51

x

Fish Fauna Composition and Water Quality at Batang Ai Hydroelectric Reservoir

Lubok Antu Sarawak

Nur Ezzaty binti Nazarudin

Science and Aquatic Resources Management

Faculty of Resources Science and Technology

University Malaysia Sarawak

ABSTRACT

This study was carried out in October 2014 and February 2015 to determine the fish species composition and

water quality at Batang Ai Hydroelectric reservoir area A total of six sampling stations were selected in this

tudy Fourteen water quality parameters were documented based on in-situ and ex-situ laboratory analysis that

were carried out according to the APHA (2000) methods A total of 992 individuals consisting of 20 species

from 8 families were caught in Batang Ai Hydro-electric reservoir The three most dominant species were

Cyclocheilichti1ys apogon Osteochilus wandersii and Barbonymus schwanenfeldii Results for in-situ water

qual ity parameters were pH (622-832) dissolved oxygen (07-83 mglL) conductivity (63-1207 -IScm)

temperature (263-31 3 degC) transparency (1 02-427 m) and turbidity (000-3466 FNU) For ex-situ water

quality parameters results of BODs ranged from 07-63 mgL TSS (0002-0043 giL) chlorophyll-a (170 to

3585 mglL) and for nutrients (ammonical nitrogen 003 to 253 mglL nitrate 001 to 021 mgL

orthophosphate 002 to 204 mgL and Nitrite 0001 to 0117 mgL) The fisheries production of Batang Ai

Hydroelectric Reservoir was estimated to be 1117 kg ha -I yr- I to 2067 kg ha-I yr- I Aquaculture and other

anthropogenic activities occurring within the surrounding areas of the reservoir may have negatively impacted

the water quality of Batang Ai Hydro-electric reservoir

ABSTRAK

Kajian telah dijalankan pada bulan Oktober 2014 dan Februari 2015 untuk menentukan komposisi spesies ikan

dan kualiti air di kawasan Empangan Hidro-elektrik Satang Ai Enam stesen pensampelan telah dipilih dalam

kajian ini Empatbelas parameter kualiti air telah didokumentasikan berdasarkan penganalissan in-situ dan exshysitll pen ampelan dengan mengikuti cara APHA (2000) Sebanyak 992 ekor ikan telah ditangkap terdiri daripada

20 spesies daripada 8 famili di Empangan Hidro-elektrik Satang Ai Tiga spesies dominan adalah

Cycocheilichlhys apoeon Osteochilus wandersii and Barbonymus schwanenfeldii Hasil kajian in-situ adalah

pH (622-832) oksigen terlarut (07-83 mglL) konduktiviti (63-1207 -IScm) suhu (263-313 degC) kejemihan

(102-427 m) dan kekeruhan (000-3466 FNU) Untuk kajian ex-situ hasil kajian untuk SODs adalah 07-63 mglL TSS (0002-0043 gil) klorofil-a (1 70 to 3585 mglL) dan untuk nutrien (ammonical nitrogen 003 to

253 mgL nitrat 001 to 021 mglL orthofosfat 002 to 204 mgL and nitrit 0001 to 0117 mgL) Produksi

ikan oleh Empangan Hidro-elektrik Batang Ai dianggarkan 1117 kg ha- I yr- I kepada 2067 kg ha- I yr- I

Akuakultur dan aktiviti lain berpunca daripada kegiatan manusia yang berlaku di sekeliling kawasan empangan

telah memberi kesan negatif kepada Empangan Hidro-elektrik Satang Ai

1

10 Introduction

Dams and reservoir have been designed for multiple purposes such as for irrigation

water supply tourism purposes aquaculture site and cage culture (Nyanti et al 2012)

Morley (2007) stated that due to high worldwide demand for water the creation of reservoirs

are unavoidable However this water body could also be polluted due to anthropogenic

activities A study in three biggest natural lakes in Malaysia showed that different levels of

degradation occurred due to discharged oil from motorboat untreated sewage from

communities and nearby plantations (Sharip and Zakaria 2008)

Batang Ai Hydroelectric Reservoir (BAHR) was impounded in 19851t is located 260

km from Kuching and has a surface area of 84 ha at full supply with catchment area of 1200

km~ BAHR receives inflow water from two main rivers which are Batang Ai and the Engkari

River

Malaysia has a variety of freshwater fish speCIes rangmg from dominant to rare

species A study by Chong et al (2010) stated that Malaysia has approximately 521 species

of freshwater fish A total of 63 species of fish is present in Batang Ai National Park

(Abdullah 2004) Freshwater fish is very important in several aspects that involves aquatic

ecosystem for example as the indicator for the water quality (Fausch et al 1990) and nutrient

status of the surrounding water (Hamid et al 2012)

Reseaf(~h in freshwater fisheries in Malaysia were gIven little attention when

compared to the marine fisheries This resulted in fewer information on total catch landings

and on consumption of the fishes (Salam and Gopinath 2006) Very little information on fish

fauna composition and total catch landings in BAHR have been documented According to

Jalal et al (2012) due to the damming the decline in fish community and fisheries are caused

by factors such as overexploitation of species pollution and changes in the environment The

production of fisheries depends on many factors such as cost season and types of fishing gear

2

used Abu Talib et al (2003) stated that fisheries in reservoir is done individually or in a

small group by using seine net trap as well as hook and line

The composition richness evenness and diversity were measured in order to

document the fish fauna composition at the BAHR The stomach contents of fish were

analyzed to study the feeding habits of three dominant species in BAHR The water quality

analysis were also conducted at three different areas

The objectives of this study were to

1 Document the current fish species composition and total catch of commercial fisheries

at Batang Ai Hydroelectric Reservoir

2 Determine the length-weight relationship and feeding behaviour of the dominant

species and

3 Document the water quality at selected stations

20 Literature Review

21 Reservoir

According to Thornton et al (1992) a reservoir is any natural water that has been

modified or managed to provide water for developing human activities and demands in

response to specific community needs It is often called impoundments with subsequent

inundation of the upstream land surface formed by a dam across a river The upper part of the

reservoir has a similar characteristics with the river due to the inflow of water from the river

while the lower part of the reservoir is very similar to the lake because of its stratification

(Holmgren amp Appelberg 2000)

The construction of hydroelectric dams reservoirs and artificial lakes in Malaysia

leads to destruction of the surrounding ecosystem It will affect the aquatic environment

water quality and composition of fishes Diversions from the construction of the dam will

cause big changes in topology and morphology of the river Study on water quality at Bera

Lake shows that water quality was highly ~ffected by the run-off from the nearby plantation

sewage from the communities around the lake and discharged oil from motorboats (Chong

2007) According to Fatimah et al (2002) strong thermal stratification occur in Kenyir Lake

throughout the year during both dry and wet season A study by Chong (2007) showed that

Bera Lake has high presence of nutrient

22 Threats tomiddotMalaysian reservoir

Fish communities in reservoir are facing many environmental manipulations and

degradations such as water management and fluctuation homesteading and ririparian land

development (Ali and Lee 1995) It will affect the aquatic environment water quality and the

composition of fishes Diversions from the construction of the dam will cause big changes in

topology and morphology of the river The main environmental factor that influence fish

distribution are the concentration of oxygen width depth and leaves-dead wood substrates

Pusat Khid~at M~klumat Akademik UNIVERSITI MALAYSIA SARAWAK

(Kouamelan et al 2003) The most crucial threat is over-fishing which will disturb the

nature of the fish its habitat and lower its biodiversity

23 Damming

According to Friedl amp Wiiest (2001) 800 000 artificial lakes and reservoirs have been

built which is equivalent to approximately 500 000 km2 of the land or is almost 3 of the

entire land surface on the earth Damming of rivers is truly important to sustain the

anthropogenic need such as for drinking washing other daily and industrial uses According

to Yusoff et al (2006) the water demand in Malaysia for both domestic and industrial uses

are increasing significantly from 26 billion m3 in 1990 to 37 billion m3 in 2000 Without

enough water supplies it will cause problems to daily routine for the community and

damming is the easiest way to solve it Hence they are 54 dams operated in Malaysia with the

total capacity of 12 biIlion m3year to cover the demand (Yusoff et at 2006) The purpose of

Batang Ai reservoir was for hydroelectric generation and it is also important sources of

energy producer for the Sarawak Corridor Additionally it is also act as important aquaculture

site (Ling et al 2013)

24 Fish inventory in Batang Ai National Park

Commercial fisheries play an important roles in the lives of fishing communities in

Malaysia Ali and Lee (1995) stated that commercial fish plays an important role In

Chenderoh Bukit Merah and Temenggor reservoirs the fish composition consisted of catfish

(Mystus sp) snakeheads (Channa micropeltis) cyprinids (Hampala macrolepidota Tor

tambroides Puntius bulu) Osphronemus gouramy and other species (Baluyut 1999 DOF

1998)

In Batang Ai National Park a total of 26 species from 9 families was reported by

Abdullah (2004) In addition to the earlier study done by Meredith (1993) a total of 63

species were reportedly present in Batang Ai National Park The dominant family IS

Cyprinidae followed by Ballitoridae (Abdullah 2004)

30 Materials and Methods

31 Study Site

This study was conducted at Batang Ai Hydroelectric Reservoir Six stations were

selected for water quality data collection Three stations were at the tributaries of the reservoir

and three stations were at the cage culture area (Figure 1) The coordinates for each station

was recorded using the Global Positioning System (GPS) (Gannin GPSmap 628) (Table 1)

Figure 1 The location of sampling stations at Batang Ai Reservoir Dam Sarawak (Source

Google Earth 2015)

6

Table 1 Coordinates and locations of sampling stations

Station Coordinates Locations

1 N 01 0 14 482 E 1120 02 140 Delok

2 NOlo 13033 E 111 0 58587 Telaus

3 NOlo 11155 E 111 0 52 102 Sungai Bungui

4 N 01 0 09 223 E 111 0 50 291 At the edge of the reservoir

5 NOl o 09 330 E 111 0 50 384 Near Tiang Laju cage culture

6 N 01 0 10 060 E 111 0 54 430 Kerangan Mong

32 Sample Collection

Several types of net that were used for fish collection were gill net with different mesh

sizes (254 cm 508 cm 1016 cm and 127 cm) and three-layered gill net (14 cm 4 cm and

14 cm) Sampling procedures were similar for every station where the nets was left overnight

before being retrieved the next day and habitat description were also noted for every station

(Table 2)

Table 2 Fishing methods and habitat description

Stations Fishing methods Habitat description

Three-layered net gill net

2 Three-layered net gill net

3 Three-layered net gin net

4 Three-layered net gill net

5 Three-layered net gill net

6 Three-layered net gill net

Lowest water level Hill paddy season

already burned near to logging site

At the edge of reservoir

Near to Able Asia cage culture

Greenish water 1200 cage at mouth of

this area

At the edge of reservoir

At the edge of reservoir

At the edge of reservoir

33 Sample Preservation

Fish samples was preserved in the field by using 10 formalin and was left for

approximately 72 hours before the samples were rinsed and soaked in tap water for ten

minutes and transferred into 70 ethanol for further laboratory analysis and preservation

purposes

34 Sample Identification

Fish samples was identified by using the taxonomy keys from Mohsin amp Ambak

(1991) Inger amp Chin (2002) Kottelat et al (1993) and FishBase

(httpfishbaseorgsearchphp) After the sample identification the fish was weighed by

using Shimadzu EDLB300 portable balance The total length and standard length were also

measured by using a ruler The total length is the measurement from the tip of the mouth to

the end of tail while the standard length is the measurement from the tip of the mouth to the

end of fleshy caudal peduncle (Kotelat et al 1993) After the whole process of sample

identification all of the samples were grouped together according to their species Fish

samples were kept in specimen bottles that were labelled with station number coordinates and

date of sampling

35 Stomach Content

Thirty individuals from three dominant species were selected for stomach content

analysis The stomach was weighed by using balance (Shimadzu ELB 300) after was

dissected from the fish The stomach was then preserved in 5 formalin In the laboratory

the stomach was placed in petri dish dissected by using dissecting kit (Gold cross) and the

content was analyzed under stereomicroscope (Olympus SZ51) The content was sorted

according to their type and each type of the food was weighed Other information such as the

empty mass of the stomach volume and length were recorded Stomach content then was

8

analyzed by using Frequency of Occurrence (FO) and Mass Method (MM) FO was used to

calculate the frequent types of food occur in selected species while MM was used to evaluate

the diet composition of each type of species The analysis used the following formula

Frequency of Occurrence

Nf h Dmiddot FOtS I X 100let i =

NfiSh

Mass Method

~~fiSllW 611 IJDiet 112 = x 100 E tlShW

J=l J

36 In-situ Parameters Collection

In-situ physico-chemical water quality parameters such as pH temperature dissolved

oxygen and turbidity was recorded in triplicate at three different depths In additions water

depth and transparency was also recorded ~n triplicate

The depth was recorded by using depth finder (Speedtech Instruments 67505) The pH

was recorded by using pH meter (Eutech Instruments) DO and temperature by using DO

meter (Sper Scientific 850041) and water transparency was recorded by using Secchi Disc

(KAHLSICO No 281 W A 1088 W AP - 4669) Water turbidity was determined by using

MARTINI instrument (Mi 415)

37 Ex-situ Parameters

371 Five-Day Biochemical Oxygen Demand (BODs)

Water samples at each station was collected by using a Van Dorn water sampler in

triplicates at three depthssub-surface layer (02 m) mid layer (10m) and bottom layer (20

m) They were placed in 1 L of acid washed polyethylene bottles and stored in cooler boxes

before being transported to laboratory for analyses According to APHA (2000) BOD5 test

was done at day 5 Initial DO reading was measured at the sampling site and the water sample

was transferred into 300 ml BOD glass bottle The bottle was wrapped with aluminium foil to

prevent penetration of sunlight and photosynthesis process They were then wrapped with

newspaper to prevent from being broken during transportation The samples were left in a

cooler box for 5 days After 5 days the final DO reading was determined using DO meter

(Sper Scientific 850041) The BOD5 value was determined by using the formula

BOD5 (mglL) = (DO 1 - 005)

where

0 0 1== dissolved oxygen of sample at day 1 (mgL)

DOs == dissolved oxygen after 5 days incubation at 20middotC (mgL)

372 Total Suspended Solids (TSS)

Total suspended analysis was divided into two parts which were pre-fieldtrip sampling

method and post-sampling fieldtrip method For pre-field trip sampling method filter paper

was prepared Glass fibre filter papers (GFIC 47 mm diameter 045 )lm membrane) was

rinsed with di tilled water placed on a piece of aluminium paper and left overnight at 103shy

105 OC in the oven The next day the filter paper that was left to cool in the desiccator before

the initial weight were weighed by using electronic balance For post-field trip sampling

method filtrat iOn process was carried out by usin~ vacuum filtration Water samples at each

station were collected by using a Van Dorn water sampler in triplicates at three depths of subshy

surface layer (02 m) mid layer (10 m) and bottom layer (20 m) A volume of water sample

(shaken well) was poured into the filter funnel Once all of the water has been drained out

filter paper was removed from the filtration funnel and placed into the aluminium foil The

filter paper then was dried in oven at 103-105 degC for 2 hours (APHA 2000) The filter paper

was taken out and allowed to cool before it was weighed again The drying process was

continued until a constant weight was achieved The amount of TSS was determined by using

the fonnula

TSS (mgl) = final weight (mg) - initial weight (mg) volume of water (1000 ml)

373 Cbloropbyll-a analysis

One litre water sample was filtered by using vacuum pump in semi dark room The

filter paper containing chlorophyll-a was analyzed and grounded by using grinder for 5

minutes Then 5 to 6 mL of 90 acetone was added into each sample Samples were

transferred into capped test tube and 90 acetone was added into the test tube to make up the

10 mL volume The test tube then was wrapped with aluminium foil and placed in the

refrigerator at 4 degC for 4 to 18 hours to facilitate the complete extraction of the pigments The

liquid then was transferred into centrifuge tube and placed into centrifuge for 10 minutes

under 3000 rpm The optical density was determined by using spectrophotometer at 750 nm

664 run 647 nrn and 630 nm wavelength Extinction for each of the small turbidity blank was

corrected by subtracting 750 nm from 664nm 647 nm and 630 nm absorptions (APHA

2000) The concentration of chlorophyll-a in the extract after correction was calculated as

below

Chlorophyll-a = 1185 (E664-E750) - 154 (E647-E750) - 008 (E630-E750)

where

E = The ~bsorption in the respective wavelength

Calculation of the chlorophyll-a amount per unit volume is as follow

Chl-a (mgL) = (Ca x v) V

where

Ca =Chlorophyll concentration in lgmL

v = Volume of acetone in mL

V = Volume of sample in mL

Page 7: FISH FAUNA COMPOSITION AND WATER QUALITY AT BATANG … Fauna Composition... · The fisheries production of Batang Ai Hydroelectric Reservoir was estimated to be 1'1.17 kg ha -I :

Acknowledgement

I am so grateful to be able to finish up this project I would like to specially thank my

dearest supervisor Professor Dr Lee Nyanti on the guidance support and assistance I also

would like to convey special thanks to my family especially my dearest father and mother

for the moral support and encouragement given I would like to express special gratitude to

my project-mate Noor Iskandar Noor Azhar for his assistance during the field trip and

your continuous support in my thesis writing Thanks to my fellow coursemates who had

experienced difficulties together including staying in the lab overnight and also thanks to

my peers under the same supervisor Daniel Nakhaie Juliana Kirollina Jane Goh and

Fakharudin for their valuable advice I am also thankful for the support of the Faculty of

Resources Science and Technology and the help provided by the laboratory assistants of

the Department of Aquatic Science especially Mr Zaidi Mr Mohd Nor Azlan Mr

Richard Toh Mr Nasri Latib and Mr Mustapha Kamal Last but not least I am also

thankful to SALCRA especially Mr Raymond and Ms Umi for the assistance given The

financial support provided by Sarawak Energy Berhad through the research grant no

GL(F07)SEBSA20 13 (28) is gratefully acknowledged

IV

rem K i mat Mak lImat Akadem ik WAK

Table of Content

Title amp Front Cover

Declaration 11

Acknowledgement IV

Table of Contents v

List of Abbreviations V11

List of Figures viii

List of Tables IX

List of Appendices x

Abstract

10 Introduction 2 20 Literature Review 4

21 Reservoir 4

22 Threats to Malaysian reservoir 4

23 Damming 5

24 Fish inventory in Batang Ai National Park 5 30 Materials and Methods 6

31 Study Site 6

32 Sample Collection 7

33 Sample Preservation 8

34 Sample Identification 8

35 Stomach Content Collection Preservation and Identification 8

36 In-situ Parameters 9

37 Ex-situ Parameters 9

371 Five-Day Biochemical Oxygen Demand 9

312 Total Suspended Solids (TSS~ 10

373 Chlorophyll-a analysis 11 374 Nitrate-N 12 375 Nitrite-N 13 376 Ammonia-N 13 377 Orthophosphate 14

38 Indices 14

381 Shannon - Weiners Diversity Index 14

382 Margaejs Species Richness Index 15

v

383 Pieou s Evenness Index 15 384 Length-weight Relationship and Condition Factor 15

39 Statistical Analysis 16 40 Results 17

41 Fish fauna composition 17 42 In-situ parameter 18

421

422

423

424

415

416

Transparency 18 Temperature 19 pH 20 Dissolved oxygen 21 Turbidity 22 Conductivity 23

43 Ex-situ parameter 24 43 1 Biological oxygen demand (BODs) 24 43 2 Total suspended solids (TSS) 25 433 Chlorophyll-a 26 434 Nitrate 27 435 Nitrite 28 436 Ammonia 29 43 7 Orthophosphate 30

44 Length-weight relationship 31 45 Species Diversity Richness and Evennes 33 46 The stomach content and frequency of occurrence 33

50 Discussion 35 60 Summary 42 70 References 43 80 Appendices 50

VI

J-

degC

J-lm

BOD

BANP

BAHR

D

DO

J-lm

GSI

H

HSI

J

km

LEWS

m

mgL

mm

N

N02shy

N03shy

TSS

LIST OF ABBREVIATION

Degree Ce1cius

Micrometer

Biochemical Oxygen Demand

Batang Ai National Park

Batang Ai Hydroelectric Reservoir

Margalefs Species Richness Index

Dissolved Oxygen

Microsiemen

Gonadosomatic Index

Shannon - Weiner s Diversity Index

Hepatosomatic Index

Pie lou s Evenness Index middot

Kilometer

Lanjak Entimau Wildlife Sanctuary

meter

milligram per litre

millimetre

Nitrogen

Nitrite

Nitrate

Total Suspended Solids

VB

Figures

Figure 1

Figure 2

Figure 3

Figure 4

Figure 5

Figure 6

Figure 7

Figure 8

Figure 9

Figure 10

Figure 11

Figure 12

Figure 13

Figure 14

Figure 15

Figure 16

LIST OF FIGURES

Title

The location of sampling stations at Batang Ai

Reservoir Dam Sarawak (Source Google Earth 2014)

Percentage of family caught in Batang Ai Reservoir

Comparisons of transparency among stations

Comparisons of temperature among depths

Comparisons of pH among depths

Comparisons of dissolved oxygen among depths

Comparisons of turbidity among depths

Comparisons of conductivity among depths

Comparisons ofBOD5 among depths

Comparisons of mean T~S among depths

Comparisons of mean Chl-a among depths

Comparisons of nitrate among depths

Comparisons of nitrite among depths

Comparisons of ammonia among depths

Comparisons of orthophosphate among depths

Length-weight relationship for the three fish species

Pages

6

17

19

20

21

22

23

24

25

26

27

28

29

30

31

32

Vlll I

Tables

Table 1

Table 2

Table 3

Table 4

Table 5

Table 6

Table 7

LIST OF TABLES

Titles Pages

Coordinates and locations of sampling stations 6

Fishing methods and habitat description 7

Species composition of fish caught at Batang Ai reservoir 18

Length-weight relationship and condition factor (K) for the 31

three dominant species

Species Diversity Species Richness and Species Evenness in 33

Batang Ai Reservoir

Stomach content and frequency of occurrence for the three 34

dominant species

Results of mass method for the three dominant species 34

IX

J

LIST OF APPENDICES

Appendix Titles Pages

Appendix 1 Vegetation that was not removed during impoundment 50

Appendix 2 Logging activity at the upstream of Batang Ai Bydroshy 50

electric Reservoir

Appendix 3 Cage culture activity 51

Appendix 4 Mass growing of rooted aquatic plant 51

x

Fish Fauna Composition and Water Quality at Batang Ai Hydroelectric Reservoir

Lubok Antu Sarawak

Nur Ezzaty binti Nazarudin

Science and Aquatic Resources Management

Faculty of Resources Science and Technology

University Malaysia Sarawak

ABSTRACT

This study was carried out in October 2014 and February 2015 to determine the fish species composition and

water quality at Batang Ai Hydroelectric reservoir area A total of six sampling stations were selected in this

tudy Fourteen water quality parameters were documented based on in-situ and ex-situ laboratory analysis that

were carried out according to the APHA (2000) methods A total of 992 individuals consisting of 20 species

from 8 families were caught in Batang Ai Hydro-electric reservoir The three most dominant species were

Cyclocheilichti1ys apogon Osteochilus wandersii and Barbonymus schwanenfeldii Results for in-situ water

qual ity parameters were pH (622-832) dissolved oxygen (07-83 mglL) conductivity (63-1207 -IScm)

temperature (263-31 3 degC) transparency (1 02-427 m) and turbidity (000-3466 FNU) For ex-situ water

quality parameters results of BODs ranged from 07-63 mgL TSS (0002-0043 giL) chlorophyll-a (170 to

3585 mglL) and for nutrients (ammonical nitrogen 003 to 253 mglL nitrate 001 to 021 mgL

orthophosphate 002 to 204 mgL and Nitrite 0001 to 0117 mgL) The fisheries production of Batang Ai

Hydroelectric Reservoir was estimated to be 1117 kg ha -I yr- I to 2067 kg ha-I yr- I Aquaculture and other

anthropogenic activities occurring within the surrounding areas of the reservoir may have negatively impacted

the water quality of Batang Ai Hydro-electric reservoir

ABSTRAK

Kajian telah dijalankan pada bulan Oktober 2014 dan Februari 2015 untuk menentukan komposisi spesies ikan

dan kualiti air di kawasan Empangan Hidro-elektrik Satang Ai Enam stesen pensampelan telah dipilih dalam

kajian ini Empatbelas parameter kualiti air telah didokumentasikan berdasarkan penganalissan in-situ dan exshysitll pen ampelan dengan mengikuti cara APHA (2000) Sebanyak 992 ekor ikan telah ditangkap terdiri daripada

20 spesies daripada 8 famili di Empangan Hidro-elektrik Satang Ai Tiga spesies dominan adalah

Cycocheilichlhys apoeon Osteochilus wandersii and Barbonymus schwanenfeldii Hasil kajian in-situ adalah

pH (622-832) oksigen terlarut (07-83 mglL) konduktiviti (63-1207 -IScm) suhu (263-313 degC) kejemihan

(102-427 m) dan kekeruhan (000-3466 FNU) Untuk kajian ex-situ hasil kajian untuk SODs adalah 07-63 mglL TSS (0002-0043 gil) klorofil-a (1 70 to 3585 mglL) dan untuk nutrien (ammonical nitrogen 003 to

253 mgL nitrat 001 to 021 mglL orthofosfat 002 to 204 mgL and nitrit 0001 to 0117 mgL) Produksi

ikan oleh Empangan Hidro-elektrik Batang Ai dianggarkan 1117 kg ha- I yr- I kepada 2067 kg ha- I yr- I

Akuakultur dan aktiviti lain berpunca daripada kegiatan manusia yang berlaku di sekeliling kawasan empangan

telah memberi kesan negatif kepada Empangan Hidro-elektrik Satang Ai

1

10 Introduction

Dams and reservoir have been designed for multiple purposes such as for irrigation

water supply tourism purposes aquaculture site and cage culture (Nyanti et al 2012)

Morley (2007) stated that due to high worldwide demand for water the creation of reservoirs

are unavoidable However this water body could also be polluted due to anthropogenic

activities A study in three biggest natural lakes in Malaysia showed that different levels of

degradation occurred due to discharged oil from motorboat untreated sewage from

communities and nearby plantations (Sharip and Zakaria 2008)

Batang Ai Hydroelectric Reservoir (BAHR) was impounded in 19851t is located 260

km from Kuching and has a surface area of 84 ha at full supply with catchment area of 1200

km~ BAHR receives inflow water from two main rivers which are Batang Ai and the Engkari

River

Malaysia has a variety of freshwater fish speCIes rangmg from dominant to rare

species A study by Chong et al (2010) stated that Malaysia has approximately 521 species

of freshwater fish A total of 63 species of fish is present in Batang Ai National Park

(Abdullah 2004) Freshwater fish is very important in several aspects that involves aquatic

ecosystem for example as the indicator for the water quality (Fausch et al 1990) and nutrient

status of the surrounding water (Hamid et al 2012)

Reseaf(~h in freshwater fisheries in Malaysia were gIven little attention when

compared to the marine fisheries This resulted in fewer information on total catch landings

and on consumption of the fishes (Salam and Gopinath 2006) Very little information on fish

fauna composition and total catch landings in BAHR have been documented According to

Jalal et al (2012) due to the damming the decline in fish community and fisheries are caused

by factors such as overexploitation of species pollution and changes in the environment The

production of fisheries depends on many factors such as cost season and types of fishing gear

2

used Abu Talib et al (2003) stated that fisheries in reservoir is done individually or in a

small group by using seine net trap as well as hook and line

The composition richness evenness and diversity were measured in order to

document the fish fauna composition at the BAHR The stomach contents of fish were

analyzed to study the feeding habits of three dominant species in BAHR The water quality

analysis were also conducted at three different areas

The objectives of this study were to

1 Document the current fish species composition and total catch of commercial fisheries

at Batang Ai Hydroelectric Reservoir

2 Determine the length-weight relationship and feeding behaviour of the dominant

species and

3 Document the water quality at selected stations

20 Literature Review

21 Reservoir

According to Thornton et al (1992) a reservoir is any natural water that has been

modified or managed to provide water for developing human activities and demands in

response to specific community needs It is often called impoundments with subsequent

inundation of the upstream land surface formed by a dam across a river The upper part of the

reservoir has a similar characteristics with the river due to the inflow of water from the river

while the lower part of the reservoir is very similar to the lake because of its stratification

(Holmgren amp Appelberg 2000)

The construction of hydroelectric dams reservoirs and artificial lakes in Malaysia

leads to destruction of the surrounding ecosystem It will affect the aquatic environment

water quality and composition of fishes Diversions from the construction of the dam will

cause big changes in topology and morphology of the river Study on water quality at Bera

Lake shows that water quality was highly ~ffected by the run-off from the nearby plantation

sewage from the communities around the lake and discharged oil from motorboats (Chong

2007) According to Fatimah et al (2002) strong thermal stratification occur in Kenyir Lake

throughout the year during both dry and wet season A study by Chong (2007) showed that

Bera Lake has high presence of nutrient

22 Threats tomiddotMalaysian reservoir

Fish communities in reservoir are facing many environmental manipulations and

degradations such as water management and fluctuation homesteading and ririparian land

development (Ali and Lee 1995) It will affect the aquatic environment water quality and the

composition of fishes Diversions from the construction of the dam will cause big changes in

topology and morphology of the river The main environmental factor that influence fish

distribution are the concentration of oxygen width depth and leaves-dead wood substrates

Pusat Khid~at M~klumat Akademik UNIVERSITI MALAYSIA SARAWAK

(Kouamelan et al 2003) The most crucial threat is over-fishing which will disturb the

nature of the fish its habitat and lower its biodiversity

23 Damming

According to Friedl amp Wiiest (2001) 800 000 artificial lakes and reservoirs have been

built which is equivalent to approximately 500 000 km2 of the land or is almost 3 of the

entire land surface on the earth Damming of rivers is truly important to sustain the

anthropogenic need such as for drinking washing other daily and industrial uses According

to Yusoff et al (2006) the water demand in Malaysia for both domestic and industrial uses

are increasing significantly from 26 billion m3 in 1990 to 37 billion m3 in 2000 Without

enough water supplies it will cause problems to daily routine for the community and

damming is the easiest way to solve it Hence they are 54 dams operated in Malaysia with the

total capacity of 12 biIlion m3year to cover the demand (Yusoff et at 2006) The purpose of

Batang Ai reservoir was for hydroelectric generation and it is also important sources of

energy producer for the Sarawak Corridor Additionally it is also act as important aquaculture

site (Ling et al 2013)

24 Fish inventory in Batang Ai National Park

Commercial fisheries play an important roles in the lives of fishing communities in

Malaysia Ali and Lee (1995) stated that commercial fish plays an important role In

Chenderoh Bukit Merah and Temenggor reservoirs the fish composition consisted of catfish

(Mystus sp) snakeheads (Channa micropeltis) cyprinids (Hampala macrolepidota Tor

tambroides Puntius bulu) Osphronemus gouramy and other species (Baluyut 1999 DOF

1998)

In Batang Ai National Park a total of 26 species from 9 families was reported by

Abdullah (2004) In addition to the earlier study done by Meredith (1993) a total of 63

species were reportedly present in Batang Ai National Park The dominant family IS

Cyprinidae followed by Ballitoridae (Abdullah 2004)

30 Materials and Methods

31 Study Site

This study was conducted at Batang Ai Hydroelectric Reservoir Six stations were

selected for water quality data collection Three stations were at the tributaries of the reservoir

and three stations were at the cage culture area (Figure 1) The coordinates for each station

was recorded using the Global Positioning System (GPS) (Gannin GPSmap 628) (Table 1)

Figure 1 The location of sampling stations at Batang Ai Reservoir Dam Sarawak (Source

Google Earth 2015)

6

Table 1 Coordinates and locations of sampling stations

Station Coordinates Locations

1 N 01 0 14 482 E 1120 02 140 Delok

2 NOlo 13033 E 111 0 58587 Telaus

3 NOlo 11155 E 111 0 52 102 Sungai Bungui

4 N 01 0 09 223 E 111 0 50 291 At the edge of the reservoir

5 NOl o 09 330 E 111 0 50 384 Near Tiang Laju cage culture

6 N 01 0 10 060 E 111 0 54 430 Kerangan Mong

32 Sample Collection

Several types of net that were used for fish collection were gill net with different mesh

sizes (254 cm 508 cm 1016 cm and 127 cm) and three-layered gill net (14 cm 4 cm and

14 cm) Sampling procedures were similar for every station where the nets was left overnight

before being retrieved the next day and habitat description were also noted for every station

(Table 2)

Table 2 Fishing methods and habitat description

Stations Fishing methods Habitat description

Three-layered net gill net

2 Three-layered net gill net

3 Three-layered net gin net

4 Three-layered net gill net

5 Three-layered net gill net

6 Three-layered net gill net

Lowest water level Hill paddy season

already burned near to logging site

At the edge of reservoir

Near to Able Asia cage culture

Greenish water 1200 cage at mouth of

this area

At the edge of reservoir

At the edge of reservoir

At the edge of reservoir

33 Sample Preservation

Fish samples was preserved in the field by using 10 formalin and was left for

approximately 72 hours before the samples were rinsed and soaked in tap water for ten

minutes and transferred into 70 ethanol for further laboratory analysis and preservation

purposes

34 Sample Identification

Fish samples was identified by using the taxonomy keys from Mohsin amp Ambak

(1991) Inger amp Chin (2002) Kottelat et al (1993) and FishBase

(httpfishbaseorgsearchphp) After the sample identification the fish was weighed by

using Shimadzu EDLB300 portable balance The total length and standard length were also

measured by using a ruler The total length is the measurement from the tip of the mouth to

the end of tail while the standard length is the measurement from the tip of the mouth to the

end of fleshy caudal peduncle (Kotelat et al 1993) After the whole process of sample

identification all of the samples were grouped together according to their species Fish

samples were kept in specimen bottles that were labelled with station number coordinates and

date of sampling

35 Stomach Content

Thirty individuals from three dominant species were selected for stomach content

analysis The stomach was weighed by using balance (Shimadzu ELB 300) after was

dissected from the fish The stomach was then preserved in 5 formalin In the laboratory

the stomach was placed in petri dish dissected by using dissecting kit (Gold cross) and the

content was analyzed under stereomicroscope (Olympus SZ51) The content was sorted

according to their type and each type of the food was weighed Other information such as the

empty mass of the stomach volume and length were recorded Stomach content then was

8

analyzed by using Frequency of Occurrence (FO) and Mass Method (MM) FO was used to

calculate the frequent types of food occur in selected species while MM was used to evaluate

the diet composition of each type of species The analysis used the following formula

Frequency of Occurrence

Nf h Dmiddot FOtS I X 100let i =

NfiSh

Mass Method

~~fiSllW 611 IJDiet 112 = x 100 E tlShW

J=l J

36 In-situ Parameters Collection

In-situ physico-chemical water quality parameters such as pH temperature dissolved

oxygen and turbidity was recorded in triplicate at three different depths In additions water

depth and transparency was also recorded ~n triplicate

The depth was recorded by using depth finder (Speedtech Instruments 67505) The pH

was recorded by using pH meter (Eutech Instruments) DO and temperature by using DO

meter (Sper Scientific 850041) and water transparency was recorded by using Secchi Disc

(KAHLSICO No 281 W A 1088 W AP - 4669) Water turbidity was determined by using

MARTINI instrument (Mi 415)

37 Ex-situ Parameters

371 Five-Day Biochemical Oxygen Demand (BODs)

Water samples at each station was collected by using a Van Dorn water sampler in

triplicates at three depthssub-surface layer (02 m) mid layer (10m) and bottom layer (20

m) They were placed in 1 L of acid washed polyethylene bottles and stored in cooler boxes

before being transported to laboratory for analyses According to APHA (2000) BOD5 test

was done at day 5 Initial DO reading was measured at the sampling site and the water sample

was transferred into 300 ml BOD glass bottle The bottle was wrapped with aluminium foil to

prevent penetration of sunlight and photosynthesis process They were then wrapped with

newspaper to prevent from being broken during transportation The samples were left in a

cooler box for 5 days After 5 days the final DO reading was determined using DO meter

(Sper Scientific 850041) The BOD5 value was determined by using the formula

BOD5 (mglL) = (DO 1 - 005)

where

0 0 1== dissolved oxygen of sample at day 1 (mgL)

DOs == dissolved oxygen after 5 days incubation at 20middotC (mgL)

372 Total Suspended Solids (TSS)

Total suspended analysis was divided into two parts which were pre-fieldtrip sampling

method and post-sampling fieldtrip method For pre-field trip sampling method filter paper

was prepared Glass fibre filter papers (GFIC 47 mm diameter 045 )lm membrane) was

rinsed with di tilled water placed on a piece of aluminium paper and left overnight at 103shy

105 OC in the oven The next day the filter paper that was left to cool in the desiccator before

the initial weight were weighed by using electronic balance For post-field trip sampling

method filtrat iOn process was carried out by usin~ vacuum filtration Water samples at each

station were collected by using a Van Dorn water sampler in triplicates at three depths of subshy

surface layer (02 m) mid layer (10 m) and bottom layer (20 m) A volume of water sample

(shaken well) was poured into the filter funnel Once all of the water has been drained out

filter paper was removed from the filtration funnel and placed into the aluminium foil The

filter paper then was dried in oven at 103-105 degC for 2 hours (APHA 2000) The filter paper

was taken out and allowed to cool before it was weighed again The drying process was

continued until a constant weight was achieved The amount of TSS was determined by using

the fonnula

TSS (mgl) = final weight (mg) - initial weight (mg) volume of water (1000 ml)

373 Cbloropbyll-a analysis

One litre water sample was filtered by using vacuum pump in semi dark room The

filter paper containing chlorophyll-a was analyzed and grounded by using grinder for 5

minutes Then 5 to 6 mL of 90 acetone was added into each sample Samples were

transferred into capped test tube and 90 acetone was added into the test tube to make up the

10 mL volume The test tube then was wrapped with aluminium foil and placed in the

refrigerator at 4 degC for 4 to 18 hours to facilitate the complete extraction of the pigments The

liquid then was transferred into centrifuge tube and placed into centrifuge for 10 minutes

under 3000 rpm The optical density was determined by using spectrophotometer at 750 nm

664 run 647 nrn and 630 nm wavelength Extinction for each of the small turbidity blank was

corrected by subtracting 750 nm from 664nm 647 nm and 630 nm absorptions (APHA

2000) The concentration of chlorophyll-a in the extract after correction was calculated as

below

Chlorophyll-a = 1185 (E664-E750) - 154 (E647-E750) - 008 (E630-E750)

where

E = The ~bsorption in the respective wavelength

Calculation of the chlorophyll-a amount per unit volume is as follow

Chl-a (mgL) = (Ca x v) V

where

Ca =Chlorophyll concentration in lgmL

v = Volume of acetone in mL

V = Volume of sample in mL

Page 8: FISH FAUNA COMPOSITION AND WATER QUALITY AT BATANG … Fauna Composition... · The fisheries production of Batang Ai Hydroelectric Reservoir was estimated to be 1'1.17 kg ha -I :

rem K i mat Mak lImat Akadem ik WAK

Table of Content

Title amp Front Cover

Declaration 11

Acknowledgement IV

Table of Contents v

List of Abbreviations V11

List of Figures viii

List of Tables IX

List of Appendices x

Abstract

10 Introduction 2 20 Literature Review 4

21 Reservoir 4

22 Threats to Malaysian reservoir 4

23 Damming 5

24 Fish inventory in Batang Ai National Park 5 30 Materials and Methods 6

31 Study Site 6

32 Sample Collection 7

33 Sample Preservation 8

34 Sample Identification 8

35 Stomach Content Collection Preservation and Identification 8

36 In-situ Parameters 9

37 Ex-situ Parameters 9

371 Five-Day Biochemical Oxygen Demand 9

312 Total Suspended Solids (TSS~ 10

373 Chlorophyll-a analysis 11 374 Nitrate-N 12 375 Nitrite-N 13 376 Ammonia-N 13 377 Orthophosphate 14

38 Indices 14

381 Shannon - Weiners Diversity Index 14

382 Margaejs Species Richness Index 15

v

383 Pieou s Evenness Index 15 384 Length-weight Relationship and Condition Factor 15

39 Statistical Analysis 16 40 Results 17

41 Fish fauna composition 17 42 In-situ parameter 18

421

422

423

424

415

416

Transparency 18 Temperature 19 pH 20 Dissolved oxygen 21 Turbidity 22 Conductivity 23

43 Ex-situ parameter 24 43 1 Biological oxygen demand (BODs) 24 43 2 Total suspended solids (TSS) 25 433 Chlorophyll-a 26 434 Nitrate 27 435 Nitrite 28 436 Ammonia 29 43 7 Orthophosphate 30

44 Length-weight relationship 31 45 Species Diversity Richness and Evennes 33 46 The stomach content and frequency of occurrence 33

50 Discussion 35 60 Summary 42 70 References 43 80 Appendices 50

VI

J-

degC

J-lm

BOD

BANP

BAHR

D

DO

J-lm

GSI

H

HSI

J

km

LEWS

m

mgL

mm

N

N02shy

N03shy

TSS

LIST OF ABBREVIATION

Degree Ce1cius

Micrometer

Biochemical Oxygen Demand

Batang Ai National Park

Batang Ai Hydroelectric Reservoir

Margalefs Species Richness Index

Dissolved Oxygen

Microsiemen

Gonadosomatic Index

Shannon - Weiner s Diversity Index

Hepatosomatic Index

Pie lou s Evenness Index middot

Kilometer

Lanjak Entimau Wildlife Sanctuary

meter

milligram per litre

millimetre

Nitrogen

Nitrite

Nitrate

Total Suspended Solids

VB

Figures

Figure 1

Figure 2

Figure 3

Figure 4

Figure 5

Figure 6

Figure 7

Figure 8

Figure 9

Figure 10

Figure 11

Figure 12

Figure 13

Figure 14

Figure 15

Figure 16

LIST OF FIGURES

Title

The location of sampling stations at Batang Ai

Reservoir Dam Sarawak (Source Google Earth 2014)

Percentage of family caught in Batang Ai Reservoir

Comparisons of transparency among stations

Comparisons of temperature among depths

Comparisons of pH among depths

Comparisons of dissolved oxygen among depths

Comparisons of turbidity among depths

Comparisons of conductivity among depths

Comparisons ofBOD5 among depths

Comparisons of mean T~S among depths

Comparisons of mean Chl-a among depths

Comparisons of nitrate among depths

Comparisons of nitrite among depths

Comparisons of ammonia among depths

Comparisons of orthophosphate among depths

Length-weight relationship for the three fish species

Pages

6

17

19

20

21

22

23

24

25

26

27

28

29

30

31

32

Vlll I

Tables

Table 1

Table 2

Table 3

Table 4

Table 5

Table 6

Table 7

LIST OF TABLES

Titles Pages

Coordinates and locations of sampling stations 6

Fishing methods and habitat description 7

Species composition of fish caught at Batang Ai reservoir 18

Length-weight relationship and condition factor (K) for the 31

three dominant species

Species Diversity Species Richness and Species Evenness in 33

Batang Ai Reservoir

Stomach content and frequency of occurrence for the three 34

dominant species

Results of mass method for the three dominant species 34

IX

J

LIST OF APPENDICES

Appendix Titles Pages

Appendix 1 Vegetation that was not removed during impoundment 50

Appendix 2 Logging activity at the upstream of Batang Ai Bydroshy 50

electric Reservoir

Appendix 3 Cage culture activity 51

Appendix 4 Mass growing of rooted aquatic plant 51

x

Fish Fauna Composition and Water Quality at Batang Ai Hydroelectric Reservoir

Lubok Antu Sarawak

Nur Ezzaty binti Nazarudin

Science and Aquatic Resources Management

Faculty of Resources Science and Technology

University Malaysia Sarawak

ABSTRACT

This study was carried out in October 2014 and February 2015 to determine the fish species composition and

water quality at Batang Ai Hydroelectric reservoir area A total of six sampling stations were selected in this

tudy Fourteen water quality parameters were documented based on in-situ and ex-situ laboratory analysis that

were carried out according to the APHA (2000) methods A total of 992 individuals consisting of 20 species

from 8 families were caught in Batang Ai Hydro-electric reservoir The three most dominant species were

Cyclocheilichti1ys apogon Osteochilus wandersii and Barbonymus schwanenfeldii Results for in-situ water

qual ity parameters were pH (622-832) dissolved oxygen (07-83 mglL) conductivity (63-1207 -IScm)

temperature (263-31 3 degC) transparency (1 02-427 m) and turbidity (000-3466 FNU) For ex-situ water

quality parameters results of BODs ranged from 07-63 mgL TSS (0002-0043 giL) chlorophyll-a (170 to

3585 mglL) and for nutrients (ammonical nitrogen 003 to 253 mglL nitrate 001 to 021 mgL

orthophosphate 002 to 204 mgL and Nitrite 0001 to 0117 mgL) The fisheries production of Batang Ai

Hydroelectric Reservoir was estimated to be 1117 kg ha -I yr- I to 2067 kg ha-I yr- I Aquaculture and other

anthropogenic activities occurring within the surrounding areas of the reservoir may have negatively impacted

the water quality of Batang Ai Hydro-electric reservoir

ABSTRAK

Kajian telah dijalankan pada bulan Oktober 2014 dan Februari 2015 untuk menentukan komposisi spesies ikan

dan kualiti air di kawasan Empangan Hidro-elektrik Satang Ai Enam stesen pensampelan telah dipilih dalam

kajian ini Empatbelas parameter kualiti air telah didokumentasikan berdasarkan penganalissan in-situ dan exshysitll pen ampelan dengan mengikuti cara APHA (2000) Sebanyak 992 ekor ikan telah ditangkap terdiri daripada

20 spesies daripada 8 famili di Empangan Hidro-elektrik Satang Ai Tiga spesies dominan adalah

Cycocheilichlhys apoeon Osteochilus wandersii and Barbonymus schwanenfeldii Hasil kajian in-situ adalah

pH (622-832) oksigen terlarut (07-83 mglL) konduktiviti (63-1207 -IScm) suhu (263-313 degC) kejemihan

(102-427 m) dan kekeruhan (000-3466 FNU) Untuk kajian ex-situ hasil kajian untuk SODs adalah 07-63 mglL TSS (0002-0043 gil) klorofil-a (1 70 to 3585 mglL) dan untuk nutrien (ammonical nitrogen 003 to

253 mgL nitrat 001 to 021 mglL orthofosfat 002 to 204 mgL and nitrit 0001 to 0117 mgL) Produksi

ikan oleh Empangan Hidro-elektrik Batang Ai dianggarkan 1117 kg ha- I yr- I kepada 2067 kg ha- I yr- I

Akuakultur dan aktiviti lain berpunca daripada kegiatan manusia yang berlaku di sekeliling kawasan empangan

telah memberi kesan negatif kepada Empangan Hidro-elektrik Satang Ai

1

10 Introduction

Dams and reservoir have been designed for multiple purposes such as for irrigation

water supply tourism purposes aquaculture site and cage culture (Nyanti et al 2012)

Morley (2007) stated that due to high worldwide demand for water the creation of reservoirs

are unavoidable However this water body could also be polluted due to anthropogenic

activities A study in three biggest natural lakes in Malaysia showed that different levels of

degradation occurred due to discharged oil from motorboat untreated sewage from

communities and nearby plantations (Sharip and Zakaria 2008)

Batang Ai Hydroelectric Reservoir (BAHR) was impounded in 19851t is located 260

km from Kuching and has a surface area of 84 ha at full supply with catchment area of 1200

km~ BAHR receives inflow water from two main rivers which are Batang Ai and the Engkari

River

Malaysia has a variety of freshwater fish speCIes rangmg from dominant to rare

species A study by Chong et al (2010) stated that Malaysia has approximately 521 species

of freshwater fish A total of 63 species of fish is present in Batang Ai National Park

(Abdullah 2004) Freshwater fish is very important in several aspects that involves aquatic

ecosystem for example as the indicator for the water quality (Fausch et al 1990) and nutrient

status of the surrounding water (Hamid et al 2012)

Reseaf(~h in freshwater fisheries in Malaysia were gIven little attention when

compared to the marine fisheries This resulted in fewer information on total catch landings

and on consumption of the fishes (Salam and Gopinath 2006) Very little information on fish

fauna composition and total catch landings in BAHR have been documented According to

Jalal et al (2012) due to the damming the decline in fish community and fisheries are caused

by factors such as overexploitation of species pollution and changes in the environment The

production of fisheries depends on many factors such as cost season and types of fishing gear

2

used Abu Talib et al (2003) stated that fisheries in reservoir is done individually or in a

small group by using seine net trap as well as hook and line

The composition richness evenness and diversity were measured in order to

document the fish fauna composition at the BAHR The stomach contents of fish were

analyzed to study the feeding habits of three dominant species in BAHR The water quality

analysis were also conducted at three different areas

The objectives of this study were to

1 Document the current fish species composition and total catch of commercial fisheries

at Batang Ai Hydroelectric Reservoir

2 Determine the length-weight relationship and feeding behaviour of the dominant

species and

3 Document the water quality at selected stations

20 Literature Review

21 Reservoir

According to Thornton et al (1992) a reservoir is any natural water that has been

modified or managed to provide water for developing human activities and demands in

response to specific community needs It is often called impoundments with subsequent

inundation of the upstream land surface formed by a dam across a river The upper part of the

reservoir has a similar characteristics with the river due to the inflow of water from the river

while the lower part of the reservoir is very similar to the lake because of its stratification

(Holmgren amp Appelberg 2000)

The construction of hydroelectric dams reservoirs and artificial lakes in Malaysia

leads to destruction of the surrounding ecosystem It will affect the aquatic environment

water quality and composition of fishes Diversions from the construction of the dam will

cause big changes in topology and morphology of the river Study on water quality at Bera

Lake shows that water quality was highly ~ffected by the run-off from the nearby plantation

sewage from the communities around the lake and discharged oil from motorboats (Chong

2007) According to Fatimah et al (2002) strong thermal stratification occur in Kenyir Lake

throughout the year during both dry and wet season A study by Chong (2007) showed that

Bera Lake has high presence of nutrient

22 Threats tomiddotMalaysian reservoir

Fish communities in reservoir are facing many environmental manipulations and

degradations such as water management and fluctuation homesteading and ririparian land

development (Ali and Lee 1995) It will affect the aquatic environment water quality and the

composition of fishes Diversions from the construction of the dam will cause big changes in

topology and morphology of the river The main environmental factor that influence fish

distribution are the concentration of oxygen width depth and leaves-dead wood substrates

Pusat Khid~at M~klumat Akademik UNIVERSITI MALAYSIA SARAWAK

(Kouamelan et al 2003) The most crucial threat is over-fishing which will disturb the

nature of the fish its habitat and lower its biodiversity

23 Damming

According to Friedl amp Wiiest (2001) 800 000 artificial lakes and reservoirs have been

built which is equivalent to approximately 500 000 km2 of the land or is almost 3 of the

entire land surface on the earth Damming of rivers is truly important to sustain the

anthropogenic need such as for drinking washing other daily and industrial uses According

to Yusoff et al (2006) the water demand in Malaysia for both domestic and industrial uses

are increasing significantly from 26 billion m3 in 1990 to 37 billion m3 in 2000 Without

enough water supplies it will cause problems to daily routine for the community and

damming is the easiest way to solve it Hence they are 54 dams operated in Malaysia with the

total capacity of 12 biIlion m3year to cover the demand (Yusoff et at 2006) The purpose of

Batang Ai reservoir was for hydroelectric generation and it is also important sources of

energy producer for the Sarawak Corridor Additionally it is also act as important aquaculture

site (Ling et al 2013)

24 Fish inventory in Batang Ai National Park

Commercial fisheries play an important roles in the lives of fishing communities in

Malaysia Ali and Lee (1995) stated that commercial fish plays an important role In

Chenderoh Bukit Merah and Temenggor reservoirs the fish composition consisted of catfish

(Mystus sp) snakeheads (Channa micropeltis) cyprinids (Hampala macrolepidota Tor

tambroides Puntius bulu) Osphronemus gouramy and other species (Baluyut 1999 DOF

1998)

In Batang Ai National Park a total of 26 species from 9 families was reported by

Abdullah (2004) In addition to the earlier study done by Meredith (1993) a total of 63

species were reportedly present in Batang Ai National Park The dominant family IS

Cyprinidae followed by Ballitoridae (Abdullah 2004)

30 Materials and Methods

31 Study Site

This study was conducted at Batang Ai Hydroelectric Reservoir Six stations were

selected for water quality data collection Three stations were at the tributaries of the reservoir

and three stations were at the cage culture area (Figure 1) The coordinates for each station

was recorded using the Global Positioning System (GPS) (Gannin GPSmap 628) (Table 1)

Figure 1 The location of sampling stations at Batang Ai Reservoir Dam Sarawak (Source

Google Earth 2015)

6

Table 1 Coordinates and locations of sampling stations

Station Coordinates Locations

1 N 01 0 14 482 E 1120 02 140 Delok

2 NOlo 13033 E 111 0 58587 Telaus

3 NOlo 11155 E 111 0 52 102 Sungai Bungui

4 N 01 0 09 223 E 111 0 50 291 At the edge of the reservoir

5 NOl o 09 330 E 111 0 50 384 Near Tiang Laju cage culture

6 N 01 0 10 060 E 111 0 54 430 Kerangan Mong

32 Sample Collection

Several types of net that were used for fish collection were gill net with different mesh

sizes (254 cm 508 cm 1016 cm and 127 cm) and three-layered gill net (14 cm 4 cm and

14 cm) Sampling procedures were similar for every station where the nets was left overnight

before being retrieved the next day and habitat description were also noted for every station

(Table 2)

Table 2 Fishing methods and habitat description

Stations Fishing methods Habitat description

Three-layered net gill net

2 Three-layered net gill net

3 Three-layered net gin net

4 Three-layered net gill net

5 Three-layered net gill net

6 Three-layered net gill net

Lowest water level Hill paddy season

already burned near to logging site

At the edge of reservoir

Near to Able Asia cage culture

Greenish water 1200 cage at mouth of

this area

At the edge of reservoir

At the edge of reservoir

At the edge of reservoir

33 Sample Preservation

Fish samples was preserved in the field by using 10 formalin and was left for

approximately 72 hours before the samples were rinsed and soaked in tap water for ten

minutes and transferred into 70 ethanol for further laboratory analysis and preservation

purposes

34 Sample Identification

Fish samples was identified by using the taxonomy keys from Mohsin amp Ambak

(1991) Inger amp Chin (2002) Kottelat et al (1993) and FishBase

(httpfishbaseorgsearchphp) After the sample identification the fish was weighed by

using Shimadzu EDLB300 portable balance The total length and standard length were also

measured by using a ruler The total length is the measurement from the tip of the mouth to

the end of tail while the standard length is the measurement from the tip of the mouth to the

end of fleshy caudal peduncle (Kotelat et al 1993) After the whole process of sample

identification all of the samples were grouped together according to their species Fish

samples were kept in specimen bottles that were labelled with station number coordinates and

date of sampling

35 Stomach Content

Thirty individuals from three dominant species were selected for stomach content

analysis The stomach was weighed by using balance (Shimadzu ELB 300) after was

dissected from the fish The stomach was then preserved in 5 formalin In the laboratory

the stomach was placed in petri dish dissected by using dissecting kit (Gold cross) and the

content was analyzed under stereomicroscope (Olympus SZ51) The content was sorted

according to their type and each type of the food was weighed Other information such as the

empty mass of the stomach volume and length were recorded Stomach content then was

8

analyzed by using Frequency of Occurrence (FO) and Mass Method (MM) FO was used to

calculate the frequent types of food occur in selected species while MM was used to evaluate

the diet composition of each type of species The analysis used the following formula

Frequency of Occurrence

Nf h Dmiddot FOtS I X 100let i =

NfiSh

Mass Method

~~fiSllW 611 IJDiet 112 = x 100 E tlShW

J=l J

36 In-situ Parameters Collection

In-situ physico-chemical water quality parameters such as pH temperature dissolved

oxygen and turbidity was recorded in triplicate at three different depths In additions water

depth and transparency was also recorded ~n triplicate

The depth was recorded by using depth finder (Speedtech Instruments 67505) The pH

was recorded by using pH meter (Eutech Instruments) DO and temperature by using DO

meter (Sper Scientific 850041) and water transparency was recorded by using Secchi Disc

(KAHLSICO No 281 W A 1088 W AP - 4669) Water turbidity was determined by using

MARTINI instrument (Mi 415)

37 Ex-situ Parameters

371 Five-Day Biochemical Oxygen Demand (BODs)

Water samples at each station was collected by using a Van Dorn water sampler in

triplicates at three depthssub-surface layer (02 m) mid layer (10m) and bottom layer (20

m) They were placed in 1 L of acid washed polyethylene bottles and stored in cooler boxes

before being transported to laboratory for analyses According to APHA (2000) BOD5 test

was done at day 5 Initial DO reading was measured at the sampling site and the water sample

was transferred into 300 ml BOD glass bottle The bottle was wrapped with aluminium foil to

prevent penetration of sunlight and photosynthesis process They were then wrapped with

newspaper to prevent from being broken during transportation The samples were left in a

cooler box for 5 days After 5 days the final DO reading was determined using DO meter

(Sper Scientific 850041) The BOD5 value was determined by using the formula

BOD5 (mglL) = (DO 1 - 005)

where

0 0 1== dissolved oxygen of sample at day 1 (mgL)

DOs == dissolved oxygen after 5 days incubation at 20middotC (mgL)

372 Total Suspended Solids (TSS)

Total suspended analysis was divided into two parts which were pre-fieldtrip sampling

method and post-sampling fieldtrip method For pre-field trip sampling method filter paper

was prepared Glass fibre filter papers (GFIC 47 mm diameter 045 )lm membrane) was

rinsed with di tilled water placed on a piece of aluminium paper and left overnight at 103shy

105 OC in the oven The next day the filter paper that was left to cool in the desiccator before

the initial weight were weighed by using electronic balance For post-field trip sampling

method filtrat iOn process was carried out by usin~ vacuum filtration Water samples at each

station were collected by using a Van Dorn water sampler in triplicates at three depths of subshy

surface layer (02 m) mid layer (10 m) and bottom layer (20 m) A volume of water sample

(shaken well) was poured into the filter funnel Once all of the water has been drained out

filter paper was removed from the filtration funnel and placed into the aluminium foil The

filter paper then was dried in oven at 103-105 degC for 2 hours (APHA 2000) The filter paper

was taken out and allowed to cool before it was weighed again The drying process was

continued until a constant weight was achieved The amount of TSS was determined by using

the fonnula

TSS (mgl) = final weight (mg) - initial weight (mg) volume of water (1000 ml)

373 Cbloropbyll-a analysis

One litre water sample was filtered by using vacuum pump in semi dark room The

filter paper containing chlorophyll-a was analyzed and grounded by using grinder for 5

minutes Then 5 to 6 mL of 90 acetone was added into each sample Samples were

transferred into capped test tube and 90 acetone was added into the test tube to make up the

10 mL volume The test tube then was wrapped with aluminium foil and placed in the

refrigerator at 4 degC for 4 to 18 hours to facilitate the complete extraction of the pigments The

liquid then was transferred into centrifuge tube and placed into centrifuge for 10 minutes

under 3000 rpm The optical density was determined by using spectrophotometer at 750 nm

664 run 647 nrn and 630 nm wavelength Extinction for each of the small turbidity blank was

corrected by subtracting 750 nm from 664nm 647 nm and 630 nm absorptions (APHA

2000) The concentration of chlorophyll-a in the extract after correction was calculated as

below

Chlorophyll-a = 1185 (E664-E750) - 154 (E647-E750) - 008 (E630-E750)

where

E = The ~bsorption in the respective wavelength

Calculation of the chlorophyll-a amount per unit volume is as follow

Chl-a (mgL) = (Ca x v) V

where

Ca =Chlorophyll concentration in lgmL

v = Volume of acetone in mL

V = Volume of sample in mL

Page 9: FISH FAUNA COMPOSITION AND WATER QUALITY AT BATANG … Fauna Composition... · The fisheries production of Batang Ai Hydroelectric Reservoir was estimated to be 1'1.17 kg ha -I :

383 Pieou s Evenness Index 15 384 Length-weight Relationship and Condition Factor 15

39 Statistical Analysis 16 40 Results 17

41 Fish fauna composition 17 42 In-situ parameter 18

421

422

423

424

415

416

Transparency 18 Temperature 19 pH 20 Dissolved oxygen 21 Turbidity 22 Conductivity 23

43 Ex-situ parameter 24 43 1 Biological oxygen demand (BODs) 24 43 2 Total suspended solids (TSS) 25 433 Chlorophyll-a 26 434 Nitrate 27 435 Nitrite 28 436 Ammonia 29 43 7 Orthophosphate 30

44 Length-weight relationship 31 45 Species Diversity Richness and Evennes 33 46 The stomach content and frequency of occurrence 33

50 Discussion 35 60 Summary 42 70 References 43 80 Appendices 50

VI

J-

degC

J-lm

BOD

BANP

BAHR

D

DO

J-lm

GSI

H

HSI

J

km

LEWS

m

mgL

mm

N

N02shy

N03shy

TSS

LIST OF ABBREVIATION

Degree Ce1cius

Micrometer

Biochemical Oxygen Demand

Batang Ai National Park

Batang Ai Hydroelectric Reservoir

Margalefs Species Richness Index

Dissolved Oxygen

Microsiemen

Gonadosomatic Index

Shannon - Weiner s Diversity Index

Hepatosomatic Index

Pie lou s Evenness Index middot

Kilometer

Lanjak Entimau Wildlife Sanctuary

meter

milligram per litre

millimetre

Nitrogen

Nitrite

Nitrate

Total Suspended Solids

VB

Figures

Figure 1

Figure 2

Figure 3

Figure 4

Figure 5

Figure 6

Figure 7

Figure 8

Figure 9

Figure 10

Figure 11

Figure 12

Figure 13

Figure 14

Figure 15

Figure 16

LIST OF FIGURES

Title

The location of sampling stations at Batang Ai

Reservoir Dam Sarawak (Source Google Earth 2014)

Percentage of family caught in Batang Ai Reservoir

Comparisons of transparency among stations

Comparisons of temperature among depths

Comparisons of pH among depths

Comparisons of dissolved oxygen among depths

Comparisons of turbidity among depths

Comparisons of conductivity among depths

Comparisons ofBOD5 among depths

Comparisons of mean T~S among depths

Comparisons of mean Chl-a among depths

Comparisons of nitrate among depths

Comparisons of nitrite among depths

Comparisons of ammonia among depths

Comparisons of orthophosphate among depths

Length-weight relationship for the three fish species

Pages

6

17

19

20

21

22

23

24

25

26

27

28

29

30

31

32

Vlll I

Tables

Table 1

Table 2

Table 3

Table 4

Table 5

Table 6

Table 7

LIST OF TABLES

Titles Pages

Coordinates and locations of sampling stations 6

Fishing methods and habitat description 7

Species composition of fish caught at Batang Ai reservoir 18

Length-weight relationship and condition factor (K) for the 31

three dominant species

Species Diversity Species Richness and Species Evenness in 33

Batang Ai Reservoir

Stomach content and frequency of occurrence for the three 34

dominant species

Results of mass method for the three dominant species 34

IX

J

LIST OF APPENDICES

Appendix Titles Pages

Appendix 1 Vegetation that was not removed during impoundment 50

Appendix 2 Logging activity at the upstream of Batang Ai Bydroshy 50

electric Reservoir

Appendix 3 Cage culture activity 51

Appendix 4 Mass growing of rooted aquatic plant 51

x

Fish Fauna Composition and Water Quality at Batang Ai Hydroelectric Reservoir

Lubok Antu Sarawak

Nur Ezzaty binti Nazarudin

Science and Aquatic Resources Management

Faculty of Resources Science and Technology

University Malaysia Sarawak

ABSTRACT

This study was carried out in October 2014 and February 2015 to determine the fish species composition and

water quality at Batang Ai Hydroelectric reservoir area A total of six sampling stations were selected in this

tudy Fourteen water quality parameters were documented based on in-situ and ex-situ laboratory analysis that

were carried out according to the APHA (2000) methods A total of 992 individuals consisting of 20 species

from 8 families were caught in Batang Ai Hydro-electric reservoir The three most dominant species were

Cyclocheilichti1ys apogon Osteochilus wandersii and Barbonymus schwanenfeldii Results for in-situ water

qual ity parameters were pH (622-832) dissolved oxygen (07-83 mglL) conductivity (63-1207 -IScm)

temperature (263-31 3 degC) transparency (1 02-427 m) and turbidity (000-3466 FNU) For ex-situ water

quality parameters results of BODs ranged from 07-63 mgL TSS (0002-0043 giL) chlorophyll-a (170 to

3585 mglL) and for nutrients (ammonical nitrogen 003 to 253 mglL nitrate 001 to 021 mgL

orthophosphate 002 to 204 mgL and Nitrite 0001 to 0117 mgL) The fisheries production of Batang Ai

Hydroelectric Reservoir was estimated to be 1117 kg ha -I yr- I to 2067 kg ha-I yr- I Aquaculture and other

anthropogenic activities occurring within the surrounding areas of the reservoir may have negatively impacted

the water quality of Batang Ai Hydro-electric reservoir

ABSTRAK

Kajian telah dijalankan pada bulan Oktober 2014 dan Februari 2015 untuk menentukan komposisi spesies ikan

dan kualiti air di kawasan Empangan Hidro-elektrik Satang Ai Enam stesen pensampelan telah dipilih dalam

kajian ini Empatbelas parameter kualiti air telah didokumentasikan berdasarkan penganalissan in-situ dan exshysitll pen ampelan dengan mengikuti cara APHA (2000) Sebanyak 992 ekor ikan telah ditangkap terdiri daripada

20 spesies daripada 8 famili di Empangan Hidro-elektrik Satang Ai Tiga spesies dominan adalah

Cycocheilichlhys apoeon Osteochilus wandersii and Barbonymus schwanenfeldii Hasil kajian in-situ adalah

pH (622-832) oksigen terlarut (07-83 mglL) konduktiviti (63-1207 -IScm) suhu (263-313 degC) kejemihan

(102-427 m) dan kekeruhan (000-3466 FNU) Untuk kajian ex-situ hasil kajian untuk SODs adalah 07-63 mglL TSS (0002-0043 gil) klorofil-a (1 70 to 3585 mglL) dan untuk nutrien (ammonical nitrogen 003 to

253 mgL nitrat 001 to 021 mglL orthofosfat 002 to 204 mgL and nitrit 0001 to 0117 mgL) Produksi

ikan oleh Empangan Hidro-elektrik Batang Ai dianggarkan 1117 kg ha- I yr- I kepada 2067 kg ha- I yr- I

Akuakultur dan aktiviti lain berpunca daripada kegiatan manusia yang berlaku di sekeliling kawasan empangan

telah memberi kesan negatif kepada Empangan Hidro-elektrik Satang Ai

1

10 Introduction

Dams and reservoir have been designed for multiple purposes such as for irrigation

water supply tourism purposes aquaculture site and cage culture (Nyanti et al 2012)

Morley (2007) stated that due to high worldwide demand for water the creation of reservoirs

are unavoidable However this water body could also be polluted due to anthropogenic

activities A study in three biggest natural lakes in Malaysia showed that different levels of

degradation occurred due to discharged oil from motorboat untreated sewage from

communities and nearby plantations (Sharip and Zakaria 2008)

Batang Ai Hydroelectric Reservoir (BAHR) was impounded in 19851t is located 260

km from Kuching and has a surface area of 84 ha at full supply with catchment area of 1200

km~ BAHR receives inflow water from two main rivers which are Batang Ai and the Engkari

River

Malaysia has a variety of freshwater fish speCIes rangmg from dominant to rare

species A study by Chong et al (2010) stated that Malaysia has approximately 521 species

of freshwater fish A total of 63 species of fish is present in Batang Ai National Park

(Abdullah 2004) Freshwater fish is very important in several aspects that involves aquatic

ecosystem for example as the indicator for the water quality (Fausch et al 1990) and nutrient

status of the surrounding water (Hamid et al 2012)

Reseaf(~h in freshwater fisheries in Malaysia were gIven little attention when

compared to the marine fisheries This resulted in fewer information on total catch landings

and on consumption of the fishes (Salam and Gopinath 2006) Very little information on fish

fauna composition and total catch landings in BAHR have been documented According to

Jalal et al (2012) due to the damming the decline in fish community and fisheries are caused

by factors such as overexploitation of species pollution and changes in the environment The

production of fisheries depends on many factors such as cost season and types of fishing gear

2

used Abu Talib et al (2003) stated that fisheries in reservoir is done individually or in a

small group by using seine net trap as well as hook and line

The composition richness evenness and diversity were measured in order to

document the fish fauna composition at the BAHR The stomach contents of fish were

analyzed to study the feeding habits of three dominant species in BAHR The water quality

analysis were also conducted at three different areas

The objectives of this study were to

1 Document the current fish species composition and total catch of commercial fisheries

at Batang Ai Hydroelectric Reservoir

2 Determine the length-weight relationship and feeding behaviour of the dominant

species and

3 Document the water quality at selected stations

20 Literature Review

21 Reservoir

According to Thornton et al (1992) a reservoir is any natural water that has been

modified or managed to provide water for developing human activities and demands in

response to specific community needs It is often called impoundments with subsequent

inundation of the upstream land surface formed by a dam across a river The upper part of the

reservoir has a similar characteristics with the river due to the inflow of water from the river

while the lower part of the reservoir is very similar to the lake because of its stratification

(Holmgren amp Appelberg 2000)

The construction of hydroelectric dams reservoirs and artificial lakes in Malaysia

leads to destruction of the surrounding ecosystem It will affect the aquatic environment

water quality and composition of fishes Diversions from the construction of the dam will

cause big changes in topology and morphology of the river Study on water quality at Bera

Lake shows that water quality was highly ~ffected by the run-off from the nearby plantation

sewage from the communities around the lake and discharged oil from motorboats (Chong

2007) According to Fatimah et al (2002) strong thermal stratification occur in Kenyir Lake

throughout the year during both dry and wet season A study by Chong (2007) showed that

Bera Lake has high presence of nutrient

22 Threats tomiddotMalaysian reservoir

Fish communities in reservoir are facing many environmental manipulations and

degradations such as water management and fluctuation homesteading and ririparian land

development (Ali and Lee 1995) It will affect the aquatic environment water quality and the

composition of fishes Diversions from the construction of the dam will cause big changes in

topology and morphology of the river The main environmental factor that influence fish

distribution are the concentration of oxygen width depth and leaves-dead wood substrates

Pusat Khid~at M~klumat Akademik UNIVERSITI MALAYSIA SARAWAK

(Kouamelan et al 2003) The most crucial threat is over-fishing which will disturb the

nature of the fish its habitat and lower its biodiversity

23 Damming

According to Friedl amp Wiiest (2001) 800 000 artificial lakes and reservoirs have been

built which is equivalent to approximately 500 000 km2 of the land or is almost 3 of the

entire land surface on the earth Damming of rivers is truly important to sustain the

anthropogenic need such as for drinking washing other daily and industrial uses According

to Yusoff et al (2006) the water demand in Malaysia for both domestic and industrial uses

are increasing significantly from 26 billion m3 in 1990 to 37 billion m3 in 2000 Without

enough water supplies it will cause problems to daily routine for the community and

damming is the easiest way to solve it Hence they are 54 dams operated in Malaysia with the

total capacity of 12 biIlion m3year to cover the demand (Yusoff et at 2006) The purpose of

Batang Ai reservoir was for hydroelectric generation and it is also important sources of

energy producer for the Sarawak Corridor Additionally it is also act as important aquaculture

site (Ling et al 2013)

24 Fish inventory in Batang Ai National Park

Commercial fisheries play an important roles in the lives of fishing communities in

Malaysia Ali and Lee (1995) stated that commercial fish plays an important role In

Chenderoh Bukit Merah and Temenggor reservoirs the fish composition consisted of catfish

(Mystus sp) snakeheads (Channa micropeltis) cyprinids (Hampala macrolepidota Tor

tambroides Puntius bulu) Osphronemus gouramy and other species (Baluyut 1999 DOF

1998)

In Batang Ai National Park a total of 26 species from 9 families was reported by

Abdullah (2004) In addition to the earlier study done by Meredith (1993) a total of 63

species were reportedly present in Batang Ai National Park The dominant family IS

Cyprinidae followed by Ballitoridae (Abdullah 2004)

30 Materials and Methods

31 Study Site

This study was conducted at Batang Ai Hydroelectric Reservoir Six stations were

selected for water quality data collection Three stations were at the tributaries of the reservoir

and three stations were at the cage culture area (Figure 1) The coordinates for each station

was recorded using the Global Positioning System (GPS) (Gannin GPSmap 628) (Table 1)

Figure 1 The location of sampling stations at Batang Ai Reservoir Dam Sarawak (Source

Google Earth 2015)

6

Table 1 Coordinates and locations of sampling stations

Station Coordinates Locations

1 N 01 0 14 482 E 1120 02 140 Delok

2 NOlo 13033 E 111 0 58587 Telaus

3 NOlo 11155 E 111 0 52 102 Sungai Bungui

4 N 01 0 09 223 E 111 0 50 291 At the edge of the reservoir

5 NOl o 09 330 E 111 0 50 384 Near Tiang Laju cage culture

6 N 01 0 10 060 E 111 0 54 430 Kerangan Mong

32 Sample Collection

Several types of net that were used for fish collection were gill net with different mesh

sizes (254 cm 508 cm 1016 cm and 127 cm) and three-layered gill net (14 cm 4 cm and

14 cm) Sampling procedures were similar for every station where the nets was left overnight

before being retrieved the next day and habitat description were also noted for every station

(Table 2)

Table 2 Fishing methods and habitat description

Stations Fishing methods Habitat description

Three-layered net gill net

2 Three-layered net gill net

3 Three-layered net gin net

4 Three-layered net gill net

5 Three-layered net gill net

6 Three-layered net gill net

Lowest water level Hill paddy season

already burned near to logging site

At the edge of reservoir

Near to Able Asia cage culture

Greenish water 1200 cage at mouth of

this area

At the edge of reservoir

At the edge of reservoir

At the edge of reservoir

33 Sample Preservation

Fish samples was preserved in the field by using 10 formalin and was left for

approximately 72 hours before the samples were rinsed and soaked in tap water for ten

minutes and transferred into 70 ethanol for further laboratory analysis and preservation

purposes

34 Sample Identification

Fish samples was identified by using the taxonomy keys from Mohsin amp Ambak

(1991) Inger amp Chin (2002) Kottelat et al (1993) and FishBase

(httpfishbaseorgsearchphp) After the sample identification the fish was weighed by

using Shimadzu EDLB300 portable balance The total length and standard length were also

measured by using a ruler The total length is the measurement from the tip of the mouth to

the end of tail while the standard length is the measurement from the tip of the mouth to the

end of fleshy caudal peduncle (Kotelat et al 1993) After the whole process of sample

identification all of the samples were grouped together according to their species Fish

samples were kept in specimen bottles that were labelled with station number coordinates and

date of sampling

35 Stomach Content

Thirty individuals from three dominant species were selected for stomach content

analysis The stomach was weighed by using balance (Shimadzu ELB 300) after was

dissected from the fish The stomach was then preserved in 5 formalin In the laboratory

the stomach was placed in petri dish dissected by using dissecting kit (Gold cross) and the

content was analyzed under stereomicroscope (Olympus SZ51) The content was sorted

according to their type and each type of the food was weighed Other information such as the

empty mass of the stomach volume and length were recorded Stomach content then was

8

analyzed by using Frequency of Occurrence (FO) and Mass Method (MM) FO was used to

calculate the frequent types of food occur in selected species while MM was used to evaluate

the diet composition of each type of species The analysis used the following formula

Frequency of Occurrence

Nf h Dmiddot FOtS I X 100let i =

NfiSh

Mass Method

~~fiSllW 611 IJDiet 112 = x 100 E tlShW

J=l J

36 In-situ Parameters Collection

In-situ physico-chemical water quality parameters such as pH temperature dissolved

oxygen and turbidity was recorded in triplicate at three different depths In additions water

depth and transparency was also recorded ~n triplicate

The depth was recorded by using depth finder (Speedtech Instruments 67505) The pH

was recorded by using pH meter (Eutech Instruments) DO and temperature by using DO

meter (Sper Scientific 850041) and water transparency was recorded by using Secchi Disc

(KAHLSICO No 281 W A 1088 W AP - 4669) Water turbidity was determined by using

MARTINI instrument (Mi 415)

37 Ex-situ Parameters

371 Five-Day Biochemical Oxygen Demand (BODs)

Water samples at each station was collected by using a Van Dorn water sampler in

triplicates at three depthssub-surface layer (02 m) mid layer (10m) and bottom layer (20

m) They were placed in 1 L of acid washed polyethylene bottles and stored in cooler boxes

before being transported to laboratory for analyses According to APHA (2000) BOD5 test

was done at day 5 Initial DO reading was measured at the sampling site and the water sample

was transferred into 300 ml BOD glass bottle The bottle was wrapped with aluminium foil to

prevent penetration of sunlight and photosynthesis process They were then wrapped with

newspaper to prevent from being broken during transportation The samples were left in a

cooler box for 5 days After 5 days the final DO reading was determined using DO meter

(Sper Scientific 850041) The BOD5 value was determined by using the formula

BOD5 (mglL) = (DO 1 - 005)

where

0 0 1== dissolved oxygen of sample at day 1 (mgL)

DOs == dissolved oxygen after 5 days incubation at 20middotC (mgL)

372 Total Suspended Solids (TSS)

Total suspended analysis was divided into two parts which were pre-fieldtrip sampling

method and post-sampling fieldtrip method For pre-field trip sampling method filter paper

was prepared Glass fibre filter papers (GFIC 47 mm diameter 045 )lm membrane) was

rinsed with di tilled water placed on a piece of aluminium paper and left overnight at 103shy

105 OC in the oven The next day the filter paper that was left to cool in the desiccator before

the initial weight were weighed by using electronic balance For post-field trip sampling

method filtrat iOn process was carried out by usin~ vacuum filtration Water samples at each

station were collected by using a Van Dorn water sampler in triplicates at three depths of subshy

surface layer (02 m) mid layer (10 m) and bottom layer (20 m) A volume of water sample

(shaken well) was poured into the filter funnel Once all of the water has been drained out

filter paper was removed from the filtration funnel and placed into the aluminium foil The

filter paper then was dried in oven at 103-105 degC for 2 hours (APHA 2000) The filter paper

was taken out and allowed to cool before it was weighed again The drying process was

continued until a constant weight was achieved The amount of TSS was determined by using

the fonnula

TSS (mgl) = final weight (mg) - initial weight (mg) volume of water (1000 ml)

373 Cbloropbyll-a analysis

One litre water sample was filtered by using vacuum pump in semi dark room The

filter paper containing chlorophyll-a was analyzed and grounded by using grinder for 5

minutes Then 5 to 6 mL of 90 acetone was added into each sample Samples were

transferred into capped test tube and 90 acetone was added into the test tube to make up the

10 mL volume The test tube then was wrapped with aluminium foil and placed in the

refrigerator at 4 degC for 4 to 18 hours to facilitate the complete extraction of the pigments The

liquid then was transferred into centrifuge tube and placed into centrifuge for 10 minutes

under 3000 rpm The optical density was determined by using spectrophotometer at 750 nm

664 run 647 nrn and 630 nm wavelength Extinction for each of the small turbidity blank was

corrected by subtracting 750 nm from 664nm 647 nm and 630 nm absorptions (APHA

2000) The concentration of chlorophyll-a in the extract after correction was calculated as

below

Chlorophyll-a = 1185 (E664-E750) - 154 (E647-E750) - 008 (E630-E750)

where

E = The ~bsorption in the respective wavelength

Calculation of the chlorophyll-a amount per unit volume is as follow

Chl-a (mgL) = (Ca x v) V

where

Ca =Chlorophyll concentration in lgmL

v = Volume of acetone in mL

V = Volume of sample in mL

Page 10: FISH FAUNA COMPOSITION AND WATER QUALITY AT BATANG … Fauna Composition... · The fisheries production of Batang Ai Hydroelectric Reservoir was estimated to be 1'1.17 kg ha -I :

J-

degC

J-lm

BOD

BANP

BAHR

D

DO

J-lm

GSI

H

HSI

J

km

LEWS

m

mgL

mm

N

N02shy

N03shy

TSS

LIST OF ABBREVIATION

Degree Ce1cius

Micrometer

Biochemical Oxygen Demand

Batang Ai National Park

Batang Ai Hydroelectric Reservoir

Margalefs Species Richness Index

Dissolved Oxygen

Microsiemen

Gonadosomatic Index

Shannon - Weiner s Diversity Index

Hepatosomatic Index

Pie lou s Evenness Index middot

Kilometer

Lanjak Entimau Wildlife Sanctuary

meter

milligram per litre

millimetre

Nitrogen

Nitrite

Nitrate

Total Suspended Solids

VB

Figures

Figure 1

Figure 2

Figure 3

Figure 4

Figure 5

Figure 6

Figure 7

Figure 8

Figure 9

Figure 10

Figure 11

Figure 12

Figure 13

Figure 14

Figure 15

Figure 16

LIST OF FIGURES

Title

The location of sampling stations at Batang Ai

Reservoir Dam Sarawak (Source Google Earth 2014)

Percentage of family caught in Batang Ai Reservoir

Comparisons of transparency among stations

Comparisons of temperature among depths

Comparisons of pH among depths

Comparisons of dissolved oxygen among depths

Comparisons of turbidity among depths

Comparisons of conductivity among depths

Comparisons ofBOD5 among depths

Comparisons of mean T~S among depths

Comparisons of mean Chl-a among depths

Comparisons of nitrate among depths

Comparisons of nitrite among depths

Comparisons of ammonia among depths

Comparisons of orthophosphate among depths

Length-weight relationship for the three fish species

Pages

6

17

19

20

21

22

23

24

25

26

27

28

29

30

31

32

Vlll I

Tables

Table 1

Table 2

Table 3

Table 4

Table 5

Table 6

Table 7

LIST OF TABLES

Titles Pages

Coordinates and locations of sampling stations 6

Fishing methods and habitat description 7

Species composition of fish caught at Batang Ai reservoir 18

Length-weight relationship and condition factor (K) for the 31

three dominant species

Species Diversity Species Richness and Species Evenness in 33

Batang Ai Reservoir

Stomach content and frequency of occurrence for the three 34

dominant species

Results of mass method for the three dominant species 34

IX

J

LIST OF APPENDICES

Appendix Titles Pages

Appendix 1 Vegetation that was not removed during impoundment 50

Appendix 2 Logging activity at the upstream of Batang Ai Bydroshy 50

electric Reservoir

Appendix 3 Cage culture activity 51

Appendix 4 Mass growing of rooted aquatic plant 51

x

Fish Fauna Composition and Water Quality at Batang Ai Hydroelectric Reservoir

Lubok Antu Sarawak

Nur Ezzaty binti Nazarudin

Science and Aquatic Resources Management

Faculty of Resources Science and Technology

University Malaysia Sarawak

ABSTRACT

This study was carried out in October 2014 and February 2015 to determine the fish species composition and

water quality at Batang Ai Hydroelectric reservoir area A total of six sampling stations were selected in this

tudy Fourteen water quality parameters were documented based on in-situ and ex-situ laboratory analysis that

were carried out according to the APHA (2000) methods A total of 992 individuals consisting of 20 species

from 8 families were caught in Batang Ai Hydro-electric reservoir The three most dominant species were

Cyclocheilichti1ys apogon Osteochilus wandersii and Barbonymus schwanenfeldii Results for in-situ water

qual ity parameters were pH (622-832) dissolved oxygen (07-83 mglL) conductivity (63-1207 -IScm)

temperature (263-31 3 degC) transparency (1 02-427 m) and turbidity (000-3466 FNU) For ex-situ water

quality parameters results of BODs ranged from 07-63 mgL TSS (0002-0043 giL) chlorophyll-a (170 to

3585 mglL) and for nutrients (ammonical nitrogen 003 to 253 mglL nitrate 001 to 021 mgL

orthophosphate 002 to 204 mgL and Nitrite 0001 to 0117 mgL) The fisheries production of Batang Ai

Hydroelectric Reservoir was estimated to be 1117 kg ha -I yr- I to 2067 kg ha-I yr- I Aquaculture and other

anthropogenic activities occurring within the surrounding areas of the reservoir may have negatively impacted

the water quality of Batang Ai Hydro-electric reservoir

ABSTRAK

Kajian telah dijalankan pada bulan Oktober 2014 dan Februari 2015 untuk menentukan komposisi spesies ikan

dan kualiti air di kawasan Empangan Hidro-elektrik Satang Ai Enam stesen pensampelan telah dipilih dalam

kajian ini Empatbelas parameter kualiti air telah didokumentasikan berdasarkan penganalissan in-situ dan exshysitll pen ampelan dengan mengikuti cara APHA (2000) Sebanyak 992 ekor ikan telah ditangkap terdiri daripada

20 spesies daripada 8 famili di Empangan Hidro-elektrik Satang Ai Tiga spesies dominan adalah

Cycocheilichlhys apoeon Osteochilus wandersii and Barbonymus schwanenfeldii Hasil kajian in-situ adalah

pH (622-832) oksigen terlarut (07-83 mglL) konduktiviti (63-1207 -IScm) suhu (263-313 degC) kejemihan

(102-427 m) dan kekeruhan (000-3466 FNU) Untuk kajian ex-situ hasil kajian untuk SODs adalah 07-63 mglL TSS (0002-0043 gil) klorofil-a (1 70 to 3585 mglL) dan untuk nutrien (ammonical nitrogen 003 to

253 mgL nitrat 001 to 021 mglL orthofosfat 002 to 204 mgL and nitrit 0001 to 0117 mgL) Produksi

ikan oleh Empangan Hidro-elektrik Batang Ai dianggarkan 1117 kg ha- I yr- I kepada 2067 kg ha- I yr- I

Akuakultur dan aktiviti lain berpunca daripada kegiatan manusia yang berlaku di sekeliling kawasan empangan

telah memberi kesan negatif kepada Empangan Hidro-elektrik Satang Ai

1

10 Introduction

Dams and reservoir have been designed for multiple purposes such as for irrigation

water supply tourism purposes aquaculture site and cage culture (Nyanti et al 2012)

Morley (2007) stated that due to high worldwide demand for water the creation of reservoirs

are unavoidable However this water body could also be polluted due to anthropogenic

activities A study in three biggest natural lakes in Malaysia showed that different levels of

degradation occurred due to discharged oil from motorboat untreated sewage from

communities and nearby plantations (Sharip and Zakaria 2008)

Batang Ai Hydroelectric Reservoir (BAHR) was impounded in 19851t is located 260

km from Kuching and has a surface area of 84 ha at full supply with catchment area of 1200

km~ BAHR receives inflow water from two main rivers which are Batang Ai and the Engkari

River

Malaysia has a variety of freshwater fish speCIes rangmg from dominant to rare

species A study by Chong et al (2010) stated that Malaysia has approximately 521 species

of freshwater fish A total of 63 species of fish is present in Batang Ai National Park

(Abdullah 2004) Freshwater fish is very important in several aspects that involves aquatic

ecosystem for example as the indicator for the water quality (Fausch et al 1990) and nutrient

status of the surrounding water (Hamid et al 2012)

Reseaf(~h in freshwater fisheries in Malaysia were gIven little attention when

compared to the marine fisheries This resulted in fewer information on total catch landings

and on consumption of the fishes (Salam and Gopinath 2006) Very little information on fish

fauna composition and total catch landings in BAHR have been documented According to

Jalal et al (2012) due to the damming the decline in fish community and fisheries are caused

by factors such as overexploitation of species pollution and changes in the environment The

production of fisheries depends on many factors such as cost season and types of fishing gear

2

used Abu Talib et al (2003) stated that fisheries in reservoir is done individually or in a

small group by using seine net trap as well as hook and line

The composition richness evenness and diversity were measured in order to

document the fish fauna composition at the BAHR The stomach contents of fish were

analyzed to study the feeding habits of three dominant species in BAHR The water quality

analysis were also conducted at three different areas

The objectives of this study were to

1 Document the current fish species composition and total catch of commercial fisheries

at Batang Ai Hydroelectric Reservoir

2 Determine the length-weight relationship and feeding behaviour of the dominant

species and

3 Document the water quality at selected stations

20 Literature Review

21 Reservoir

According to Thornton et al (1992) a reservoir is any natural water that has been

modified or managed to provide water for developing human activities and demands in

response to specific community needs It is often called impoundments with subsequent

inundation of the upstream land surface formed by a dam across a river The upper part of the

reservoir has a similar characteristics with the river due to the inflow of water from the river

while the lower part of the reservoir is very similar to the lake because of its stratification

(Holmgren amp Appelberg 2000)

The construction of hydroelectric dams reservoirs and artificial lakes in Malaysia

leads to destruction of the surrounding ecosystem It will affect the aquatic environment

water quality and composition of fishes Diversions from the construction of the dam will

cause big changes in topology and morphology of the river Study on water quality at Bera

Lake shows that water quality was highly ~ffected by the run-off from the nearby plantation

sewage from the communities around the lake and discharged oil from motorboats (Chong

2007) According to Fatimah et al (2002) strong thermal stratification occur in Kenyir Lake

throughout the year during both dry and wet season A study by Chong (2007) showed that

Bera Lake has high presence of nutrient

22 Threats tomiddotMalaysian reservoir

Fish communities in reservoir are facing many environmental manipulations and

degradations such as water management and fluctuation homesteading and ririparian land

development (Ali and Lee 1995) It will affect the aquatic environment water quality and the

composition of fishes Diversions from the construction of the dam will cause big changes in

topology and morphology of the river The main environmental factor that influence fish

distribution are the concentration of oxygen width depth and leaves-dead wood substrates

Pusat Khid~at M~klumat Akademik UNIVERSITI MALAYSIA SARAWAK

(Kouamelan et al 2003) The most crucial threat is over-fishing which will disturb the

nature of the fish its habitat and lower its biodiversity

23 Damming

According to Friedl amp Wiiest (2001) 800 000 artificial lakes and reservoirs have been

built which is equivalent to approximately 500 000 km2 of the land or is almost 3 of the

entire land surface on the earth Damming of rivers is truly important to sustain the

anthropogenic need such as for drinking washing other daily and industrial uses According

to Yusoff et al (2006) the water demand in Malaysia for both domestic and industrial uses

are increasing significantly from 26 billion m3 in 1990 to 37 billion m3 in 2000 Without

enough water supplies it will cause problems to daily routine for the community and

damming is the easiest way to solve it Hence they are 54 dams operated in Malaysia with the

total capacity of 12 biIlion m3year to cover the demand (Yusoff et at 2006) The purpose of

Batang Ai reservoir was for hydroelectric generation and it is also important sources of

energy producer for the Sarawak Corridor Additionally it is also act as important aquaculture

site (Ling et al 2013)

24 Fish inventory in Batang Ai National Park

Commercial fisheries play an important roles in the lives of fishing communities in

Malaysia Ali and Lee (1995) stated that commercial fish plays an important role In

Chenderoh Bukit Merah and Temenggor reservoirs the fish composition consisted of catfish

(Mystus sp) snakeheads (Channa micropeltis) cyprinids (Hampala macrolepidota Tor

tambroides Puntius bulu) Osphronemus gouramy and other species (Baluyut 1999 DOF

1998)

In Batang Ai National Park a total of 26 species from 9 families was reported by

Abdullah (2004) In addition to the earlier study done by Meredith (1993) a total of 63

species were reportedly present in Batang Ai National Park The dominant family IS

Cyprinidae followed by Ballitoridae (Abdullah 2004)

30 Materials and Methods

31 Study Site

This study was conducted at Batang Ai Hydroelectric Reservoir Six stations were

selected for water quality data collection Three stations were at the tributaries of the reservoir

and three stations were at the cage culture area (Figure 1) The coordinates for each station

was recorded using the Global Positioning System (GPS) (Gannin GPSmap 628) (Table 1)

Figure 1 The location of sampling stations at Batang Ai Reservoir Dam Sarawak (Source

Google Earth 2015)

6

Table 1 Coordinates and locations of sampling stations

Station Coordinates Locations

1 N 01 0 14 482 E 1120 02 140 Delok

2 NOlo 13033 E 111 0 58587 Telaus

3 NOlo 11155 E 111 0 52 102 Sungai Bungui

4 N 01 0 09 223 E 111 0 50 291 At the edge of the reservoir

5 NOl o 09 330 E 111 0 50 384 Near Tiang Laju cage culture

6 N 01 0 10 060 E 111 0 54 430 Kerangan Mong

32 Sample Collection

Several types of net that were used for fish collection were gill net with different mesh

sizes (254 cm 508 cm 1016 cm and 127 cm) and three-layered gill net (14 cm 4 cm and

14 cm) Sampling procedures were similar for every station where the nets was left overnight

before being retrieved the next day and habitat description were also noted for every station

(Table 2)

Table 2 Fishing methods and habitat description

Stations Fishing methods Habitat description

Three-layered net gill net

2 Three-layered net gill net

3 Three-layered net gin net

4 Three-layered net gill net

5 Three-layered net gill net

6 Three-layered net gill net

Lowest water level Hill paddy season

already burned near to logging site

At the edge of reservoir

Near to Able Asia cage culture

Greenish water 1200 cage at mouth of

this area

At the edge of reservoir

At the edge of reservoir

At the edge of reservoir

33 Sample Preservation

Fish samples was preserved in the field by using 10 formalin and was left for

approximately 72 hours before the samples were rinsed and soaked in tap water for ten

minutes and transferred into 70 ethanol for further laboratory analysis and preservation

purposes

34 Sample Identification

Fish samples was identified by using the taxonomy keys from Mohsin amp Ambak

(1991) Inger amp Chin (2002) Kottelat et al (1993) and FishBase

(httpfishbaseorgsearchphp) After the sample identification the fish was weighed by

using Shimadzu EDLB300 portable balance The total length and standard length were also

measured by using a ruler The total length is the measurement from the tip of the mouth to

the end of tail while the standard length is the measurement from the tip of the mouth to the

end of fleshy caudal peduncle (Kotelat et al 1993) After the whole process of sample

identification all of the samples were grouped together according to their species Fish

samples were kept in specimen bottles that were labelled with station number coordinates and

date of sampling

35 Stomach Content

Thirty individuals from three dominant species were selected for stomach content

analysis The stomach was weighed by using balance (Shimadzu ELB 300) after was

dissected from the fish The stomach was then preserved in 5 formalin In the laboratory

the stomach was placed in petri dish dissected by using dissecting kit (Gold cross) and the

content was analyzed under stereomicroscope (Olympus SZ51) The content was sorted

according to their type and each type of the food was weighed Other information such as the

empty mass of the stomach volume and length were recorded Stomach content then was

8

analyzed by using Frequency of Occurrence (FO) and Mass Method (MM) FO was used to

calculate the frequent types of food occur in selected species while MM was used to evaluate

the diet composition of each type of species The analysis used the following formula

Frequency of Occurrence

Nf h Dmiddot FOtS I X 100let i =

NfiSh

Mass Method

~~fiSllW 611 IJDiet 112 = x 100 E tlShW

J=l J

36 In-situ Parameters Collection

In-situ physico-chemical water quality parameters such as pH temperature dissolved

oxygen and turbidity was recorded in triplicate at three different depths In additions water

depth and transparency was also recorded ~n triplicate

The depth was recorded by using depth finder (Speedtech Instruments 67505) The pH

was recorded by using pH meter (Eutech Instruments) DO and temperature by using DO

meter (Sper Scientific 850041) and water transparency was recorded by using Secchi Disc

(KAHLSICO No 281 W A 1088 W AP - 4669) Water turbidity was determined by using

MARTINI instrument (Mi 415)

37 Ex-situ Parameters

371 Five-Day Biochemical Oxygen Demand (BODs)

Water samples at each station was collected by using a Van Dorn water sampler in

triplicates at three depthssub-surface layer (02 m) mid layer (10m) and bottom layer (20

m) They were placed in 1 L of acid washed polyethylene bottles and stored in cooler boxes

before being transported to laboratory for analyses According to APHA (2000) BOD5 test

was done at day 5 Initial DO reading was measured at the sampling site and the water sample

was transferred into 300 ml BOD glass bottle The bottle was wrapped with aluminium foil to

prevent penetration of sunlight and photosynthesis process They were then wrapped with

newspaper to prevent from being broken during transportation The samples were left in a

cooler box for 5 days After 5 days the final DO reading was determined using DO meter

(Sper Scientific 850041) The BOD5 value was determined by using the formula

BOD5 (mglL) = (DO 1 - 005)

where

0 0 1== dissolved oxygen of sample at day 1 (mgL)

DOs == dissolved oxygen after 5 days incubation at 20middotC (mgL)

372 Total Suspended Solids (TSS)

Total suspended analysis was divided into two parts which were pre-fieldtrip sampling

method and post-sampling fieldtrip method For pre-field trip sampling method filter paper

was prepared Glass fibre filter papers (GFIC 47 mm diameter 045 )lm membrane) was

rinsed with di tilled water placed on a piece of aluminium paper and left overnight at 103shy

105 OC in the oven The next day the filter paper that was left to cool in the desiccator before

the initial weight were weighed by using electronic balance For post-field trip sampling

method filtrat iOn process was carried out by usin~ vacuum filtration Water samples at each

station were collected by using a Van Dorn water sampler in triplicates at three depths of subshy

surface layer (02 m) mid layer (10 m) and bottom layer (20 m) A volume of water sample

(shaken well) was poured into the filter funnel Once all of the water has been drained out

filter paper was removed from the filtration funnel and placed into the aluminium foil The

filter paper then was dried in oven at 103-105 degC for 2 hours (APHA 2000) The filter paper

was taken out and allowed to cool before it was weighed again The drying process was

continued until a constant weight was achieved The amount of TSS was determined by using

the fonnula

TSS (mgl) = final weight (mg) - initial weight (mg) volume of water (1000 ml)

373 Cbloropbyll-a analysis

One litre water sample was filtered by using vacuum pump in semi dark room The

filter paper containing chlorophyll-a was analyzed and grounded by using grinder for 5

minutes Then 5 to 6 mL of 90 acetone was added into each sample Samples were

transferred into capped test tube and 90 acetone was added into the test tube to make up the

10 mL volume The test tube then was wrapped with aluminium foil and placed in the

refrigerator at 4 degC for 4 to 18 hours to facilitate the complete extraction of the pigments The

liquid then was transferred into centrifuge tube and placed into centrifuge for 10 minutes

under 3000 rpm The optical density was determined by using spectrophotometer at 750 nm

664 run 647 nrn and 630 nm wavelength Extinction for each of the small turbidity blank was

corrected by subtracting 750 nm from 664nm 647 nm and 630 nm absorptions (APHA

2000) The concentration of chlorophyll-a in the extract after correction was calculated as

below

Chlorophyll-a = 1185 (E664-E750) - 154 (E647-E750) - 008 (E630-E750)

where

E = The ~bsorption in the respective wavelength

Calculation of the chlorophyll-a amount per unit volume is as follow

Chl-a (mgL) = (Ca x v) V

where

Ca =Chlorophyll concentration in lgmL

v = Volume of acetone in mL

V = Volume of sample in mL

Page 11: FISH FAUNA COMPOSITION AND WATER QUALITY AT BATANG … Fauna Composition... · The fisheries production of Batang Ai Hydroelectric Reservoir was estimated to be 1'1.17 kg ha -I :

Figures

Figure 1

Figure 2

Figure 3

Figure 4

Figure 5

Figure 6

Figure 7

Figure 8

Figure 9

Figure 10

Figure 11

Figure 12

Figure 13

Figure 14

Figure 15

Figure 16

LIST OF FIGURES

Title

The location of sampling stations at Batang Ai

Reservoir Dam Sarawak (Source Google Earth 2014)

Percentage of family caught in Batang Ai Reservoir

Comparisons of transparency among stations

Comparisons of temperature among depths

Comparisons of pH among depths

Comparisons of dissolved oxygen among depths

Comparisons of turbidity among depths

Comparisons of conductivity among depths

Comparisons ofBOD5 among depths

Comparisons of mean T~S among depths

Comparisons of mean Chl-a among depths

Comparisons of nitrate among depths

Comparisons of nitrite among depths

Comparisons of ammonia among depths

Comparisons of orthophosphate among depths

Length-weight relationship for the three fish species

Pages

6

17

19

20

21

22

23

24

25

26

27

28

29

30

31

32

Vlll I

Tables

Table 1

Table 2

Table 3

Table 4

Table 5

Table 6

Table 7

LIST OF TABLES

Titles Pages

Coordinates and locations of sampling stations 6

Fishing methods and habitat description 7

Species composition of fish caught at Batang Ai reservoir 18

Length-weight relationship and condition factor (K) for the 31

three dominant species

Species Diversity Species Richness and Species Evenness in 33

Batang Ai Reservoir

Stomach content and frequency of occurrence for the three 34

dominant species

Results of mass method for the three dominant species 34

IX

J

LIST OF APPENDICES

Appendix Titles Pages

Appendix 1 Vegetation that was not removed during impoundment 50

Appendix 2 Logging activity at the upstream of Batang Ai Bydroshy 50

electric Reservoir

Appendix 3 Cage culture activity 51

Appendix 4 Mass growing of rooted aquatic plant 51

x

Fish Fauna Composition and Water Quality at Batang Ai Hydroelectric Reservoir

Lubok Antu Sarawak

Nur Ezzaty binti Nazarudin

Science and Aquatic Resources Management

Faculty of Resources Science and Technology

University Malaysia Sarawak

ABSTRACT

This study was carried out in October 2014 and February 2015 to determine the fish species composition and

water quality at Batang Ai Hydroelectric reservoir area A total of six sampling stations were selected in this

tudy Fourteen water quality parameters were documented based on in-situ and ex-situ laboratory analysis that

were carried out according to the APHA (2000) methods A total of 992 individuals consisting of 20 species

from 8 families were caught in Batang Ai Hydro-electric reservoir The three most dominant species were

Cyclocheilichti1ys apogon Osteochilus wandersii and Barbonymus schwanenfeldii Results for in-situ water

qual ity parameters were pH (622-832) dissolved oxygen (07-83 mglL) conductivity (63-1207 -IScm)

temperature (263-31 3 degC) transparency (1 02-427 m) and turbidity (000-3466 FNU) For ex-situ water

quality parameters results of BODs ranged from 07-63 mgL TSS (0002-0043 giL) chlorophyll-a (170 to

3585 mglL) and for nutrients (ammonical nitrogen 003 to 253 mglL nitrate 001 to 021 mgL

orthophosphate 002 to 204 mgL and Nitrite 0001 to 0117 mgL) The fisheries production of Batang Ai

Hydroelectric Reservoir was estimated to be 1117 kg ha -I yr- I to 2067 kg ha-I yr- I Aquaculture and other

anthropogenic activities occurring within the surrounding areas of the reservoir may have negatively impacted

the water quality of Batang Ai Hydro-electric reservoir

ABSTRAK

Kajian telah dijalankan pada bulan Oktober 2014 dan Februari 2015 untuk menentukan komposisi spesies ikan

dan kualiti air di kawasan Empangan Hidro-elektrik Satang Ai Enam stesen pensampelan telah dipilih dalam

kajian ini Empatbelas parameter kualiti air telah didokumentasikan berdasarkan penganalissan in-situ dan exshysitll pen ampelan dengan mengikuti cara APHA (2000) Sebanyak 992 ekor ikan telah ditangkap terdiri daripada

20 spesies daripada 8 famili di Empangan Hidro-elektrik Satang Ai Tiga spesies dominan adalah

Cycocheilichlhys apoeon Osteochilus wandersii and Barbonymus schwanenfeldii Hasil kajian in-situ adalah

pH (622-832) oksigen terlarut (07-83 mglL) konduktiviti (63-1207 -IScm) suhu (263-313 degC) kejemihan

(102-427 m) dan kekeruhan (000-3466 FNU) Untuk kajian ex-situ hasil kajian untuk SODs adalah 07-63 mglL TSS (0002-0043 gil) klorofil-a (1 70 to 3585 mglL) dan untuk nutrien (ammonical nitrogen 003 to

253 mgL nitrat 001 to 021 mglL orthofosfat 002 to 204 mgL and nitrit 0001 to 0117 mgL) Produksi

ikan oleh Empangan Hidro-elektrik Batang Ai dianggarkan 1117 kg ha- I yr- I kepada 2067 kg ha- I yr- I

Akuakultur dan aktiviti lain berpunca daripada kegiatan manusia yang berlaku di sekeliling kawasan empangan

telah memberi kesan negatif kepada Empangan Hidro-elektrik Satang Ai

1

10 Introduction

Dams and reservoir have been designed for multiple purposes such as for irrigation

water supply tourism purposes aquaculture site and cage culture (Nyanti et al 2012)

Morley (2007) stated that due to high worldwide demand for water the creation of reservoirs

are unavoidable However this water body could also be polluted due to anthropogenic

activities A study in three biggest natural lakes in Malaysia showed that different levels of

degradation occurred due to discharged oil from motorboat untreated sewage from

communities and nearby plantations (Sharip and Zakaria 2008)

Batang Ai Hydroelectric Reservoir (BAHR) was impounded in 19851t is located 260

km from Kuching and has a surface area of 84 ha at full supply with catchment area of 1200

km~ BAHR receives inflow water from two main rivers which are Batang Ai and the Engkari

River

Malaysia has a variety of freshwater fish speCIes rangmg from dominant to rare

species A study by Chong et al (2010) stated that Malaysia has approximately 521 species

of freshwater fish A total of 63 species of fish is present in Batang Ai National Park

(Abdullah 2004) Freshwater fish is very important in several aspects that involves aquatic

ecosystem for example as the indicator for the water quality (Fausch et al 1990) and nutrient

status of the surrounding water (Hamid et al 2012)

Reseaf(~h in freshwater fisheries in Malaysia were gIven little attention when

compared to the marine fisheries This resulted in fewer information on total catch landings

and on consumption of the fishes (Salam and Gopinath 2006) Very little information on fish

fauna composition and total catch landings in BAHR have been documented According to

Jalal et al (2012) due to the damming the decline in fish community and fisheries are caused

by factors such as overexploitation of species pollution and changes in the environment The

production of fisheries depends on many factors such as cost season and types of fishing gear

2

used Abu Talib et al (2003) stated that fisheries in reservoir is done individually or in a

small group by using seine net trap as well as hook and line

The composition richness evenness and diversity were measured in order to

document the fish fauna composition at the BAHR The stomach contents of fish were

analyzed to study the feeding habits of three dominant species in BAHR The water quality

analysis were also conducted at three different areas

The objectives of this study were to

1 Document the current fish species composition and total catch of commercial fisheries

at Batang Ai Hydroelectric Reservoir

2 Determine the length-weight relationship and feeding behaviour of the dominant

species and

3 Document the water quality at selected stations

20 Literature Review

21 Reservoir

According to Thornton et al (1992) a reservoir is any natural water that has been

modified or managed to provide water for developing human activities and demands in

response to specific community needs It is often called impoundments with subsequent

inundation of the upstream land surface formed by a dam across a river The upper part of the

reservoir has a similar characteristics with the river due to the inflow of water from the river

while the lower part of the reservoir is very similar to the lake because of its stratification

(Holmgren amp Appelberg 2000)

The construction of hydroelectric dams reservoirs and artificial lakes in Malaysia

leads to destruction of the surrounding ecosystem It will affect the aquatic environment

water quality and composition of fishes Diversions from the construction of the dam will

cause big changes in topology and morphology of the river Study on water quality at Bera

Lake shows that water quality was highly ~ffected by the run-off from the nearby plantation

sewage from the communities around the lake and discharged oil from motorboats (Chong

2007) According to Fatimah et al (2002) strong thermal stratification occur in Kenyir Lake

throughout the year during both dry and wet season A study by Chong (2007) showed that

Bera Lake has high presence of nutrient

22 Threats tomiddotMalaysian reservoir

Fish communities in reservoir are facing many environmental manipulations and

degradations such as water management and fluctuation homesteading and ririparian land

development (Ali and Lee 1995) It will affect the aquatic environment water quality and the

composition of fishes Diversions from the construction of the dam will cause big changes in

topology and morphology of the river The main environmental factor that influence fish

distribution are the concentration of oxygen width depth and leaves-dead wood substrates

Pusat Khid~at M~klumat Akademik UNIVERSITI MALAYSIA SARAWAK

(Kouamelan et al 2003) The most crucial threat is over-fishing which will disturb the

nature of the fish its habitat and lower its biodiversity

23 Damming

According to Friedl amp Wiiest (2001) 800 000 artificial lakes and reservoirs have been

built which is equivalent to approximately 500 000 km2 of the land or is almost 3 of the

entire land surface on the earth Damming of rivers is truly important to sustain the

anthropogenic need such as for drinking washing other daily and industrial uses According

to Yusoff et al (2006) the water demand in Malaysia for both domestic and industrial uses

are increasing significantly from 26 billion m3 in 1990 to 37 billion m3 in 2000 Without

enough water supplies it will cause problems to daily routine for the community and

damming is the easiest way to solve it Hence they are 54 dams operated in Malaysia with the

total capacity of 12 biIlion m3year to cover the demand (Yusoff et at 2006) The purpose of

Batang Ai reservoir was for hydroelectric generation and it is also important sources of

energy producer for the Sarawak Corridor Additionally it is also act as important aquaculture

site (Ling et al 2013)

24 Fish inventory in Batang Ai National Park

Commercial fisheries play an important roles in the lives of fishing communities in

Malaysia Ali and Lee (1995) stated that commercial fish plays an important role In

Chenderoh Bukit Merah and Temenggor reservoirs the fish composition consisted of catfish

(Mystus sp) snakeheads (Channa micropeltis) cyprinids (Hampala macrolepidota Tor

tambroides Puntius bulu) Osphronemus gouramy and other species (Baluyut 1999 DOF

1998)

In Batang Ai National Park a total of 26 species from 9 families was reported by

Abdullah (2004) In addition to the earlier study done by Meredith (1993) a total of 63

species were reportedly present in Batang Ai National Park The dominant family IS

Cyprinidae followed by Ballitoridae (Abdullah 2004)

30 Materials and Methods

31 Study Site

This study was conducted at Batang Ai Hydroelectric Reservoir Six stations were

selected for water quality data collection Three stations were at the tributaries of the reservoir

and three stations were at the cage culture area (Figure 1) The coordinates for each station

was recorded using the Global Positioning System (GPS) (Gannin GPSmap 628) (Table 1)

Figure 1 The location of sampling stations at Batang Ai Reservoir Dam Sarawak (Source

Google Earth 2015)

6

Table 1 Coordinates and locations of sampling stations

Station Coordinates Locations

1 N 01 0 14 482 E 1120 02 140 Delok

2 NOlo 13033 E 111 0 58587 Telaus

3 NOlo 11155 E 111 0 52 102 Sungai Bungui

4 N 01 0 09 223 E 111 0 50 291 At the edge of the reservoir

5 NOl o 09 330 E 111 0 50 384 Near Tiang Laju cage culture

6 N 01 0 10 060 E 111 0 54 430 Kerangan Mong

32 Sample Collection

Several types of net that were used for fish collection were gill net with different mesh

sizes (254 cm 508 cm 1016 cm and 127 cm) and three-layered gill net (14 cm 4 cm and

14 cm) Sampling procedures were similar for every station where the nets was left overnight

before being retrieved the next day and habitat description were also noted for every station

(Table 2)

Table 2 Fishing methods and habitat description

Stations Fishing methods Habitat description

Three-layered net gill net

2 Three-layered net gill net

3 Three-layered net gin net

4 Three-layered net gill net

5 Three-layered net gill net

6 Three-layered net gill net

Lowest water level Hill paddy season

already burned near to logging site

At the edge of reservoir

Near to Able Asia cage culture

Greenish water 1200 cage at mouth of

this area

At the edge of reservoir

At the edge of reservoir

At the edge of reservoir

33 Sample Preservation

Fish samples was preserved in the field by using 10 formalin and was left for

approximately 72 hours before the samples were rinsed and soaked in tap water for ten

minutes and transferred into 70 ethanol for further laboratory analysis and preservation

purposes

34 Sample Identification

Fish samples was identified by using the taxonomy keys from Mohsin amp Ambak

(1991) Inger amp Chin (2002) Kottelat et al (1993) and FishBase

(httpfishbaseorgsearchphp) After the sample identification the fish was weighed by

using Shimadzu EDLB300 portable balance The total length and standard length were also

measured by using a ruler The total length is the measurement from the tip of the mouth to

the end of tail while the standard length is the measurement from the tip of the mouth to the

end of fleshy caudal peduncle (Kotelat et al 1993) After the whole process of sample

identification all of the samples were grouped together according to their species Fish

samples were kept in specimen bottles that were labelled with station number coordinates and

date of sampling

35 Stomach Content

Thirty individuals from three dominant species were selected for stomach content

analysis The stomach was weighed by using balance (Shimadzu ELB 300) after was

dissected from the fish The stomach was then preserved in 5 formalin In the laboratory

the stomach was placed in petri dish dissected by using dissecting kit (Gold cross) and the

content was analyzed under stereomicroscope (Olympus SZ51) The content was sorted

according to their type and each type of the food was weighed Other information such as the

empty mass of the stomach volume and length were recorded Stomach content then was

8

analyzed by using Frequency of Occurrence (FO) and Mass Method (MM) FO was used to

calculate the frequent types of food occur in selected species while MM was used to evaluate

the diet composition of each type of species The analysis used the following formula

Frequency of Occurrence

Nf h Dmiddot FOtS I X 100let i =

NfiSh

Mass Method

~~fiSllW 611 IJDiet 112 = x 100 E tlShW

J=l J

36 In-situ Parameters Collection

In-situ physico-chemical water quality parameters such as pH temperature dissolved

oxygen and turbidity was recorded in triplicate at three different depths In additions water

depth and transparency was also recorded ~n triplicate

The depth was recorded by using depth finder (Speedtech Instruments 67505) The pH

was recorded by using pH meter (Eutech Instruments) DO and temperature by using DO

meter (Sper Scientific 850041) and water transparency was recorded by using Secchi Disc

(KAHLSICO No 281 W A 1088 W AP - 4669) Water turbidity was determined by using

MARTINI instrument (Mi 415)

37 Ex-situ Parameters

371 Five-Day Biochemical Oxygen Demand (BODs)

Water samples at each station was collected by using a Van Dorn water sampler in

triplicates at three depthssub-surface layer (02 m) mid layer (10m) and bottom layer (20

m) They were placed in 1 L of acid washed polyethylene bottles and stored in cooler boxes

before being transported to laboratory for analyses According to APHA (2000) BOD5 test

was done at day 5 Initial DO reading was measured at the sampling site and the water sample

was transferred into 300 ml BOD glass bottle The bottle was wrapped with aluminium foil to

prevent penetration of sunlight and photosynthesis process They were then wrapped with

newspaper to prevent from being broken during transportation The samples were left in a

cooler box for 5 days After 5 days the final DO reading was determined using DO meter

(Sper Scientific 850041) The BOD5 value was determined by using the formula

BOD5 (mglL) = (DO 1 - 005)

where

0 0 1== dissolved oxygen of sample at day 1 (mgL)

DOs == dissolved oxygen after 5 days incubation at 20middotC (mgL)

372 Total Suspended Solids (TSS)

Total suspended analysis was divided into two parts which were pre-fieldtrip sampling

method and post-sampling fieldtrip method For pre-field trip sampling method filter paper

was prepared Glass fibre filter papers (GFIC 47 mm diameter 045 )lm membrane) was

rinsed with di tilled water placed on a piece of aluminium paper and left overnight at 103shy

105 OC in the oven The next day the filter paper that was left to cool in the desiccator before

the initial weight were weighed by using electronic balance For post-field trip sampling

method filtrat iOn process was carried out by usin~ vacuum filtration Water samples at each

station were collected by using a Van Dorn water sampler in triplicates at three depths of subshy

surface layer (02 m) mid layer (10 m) and bottom layer (20 m) A volume of water sample

(shaken well) was poured into the filter funnel Once all of the water has been drained out

filter paper was removed from the filtration funnel and placed into the aluminium foil The

filter paper then was dried in oven at 103-105 degC for 2 hours (APHA 2000) The filter paper

was taken out and allowed to cool before it was weighed again The drying process was

continued until a constant weight was achieved The amount of TSS was determined by using

the fonnula

TSS (mgl) = final weight (mg) - initial weight (mg) volume of water (1000 ml)

373 Cbloropbyll-a analysis

One litre water sample was filtered by using vacuum pump in semi dark room The

filter paper containing chlorophyll-a was analyzed and grounded by using grinder for 5

minutes Then 5 to 6 mL of 90 acetone was added into each sample Samples were

transferred into capped test tube and 90 acetone was added into the test tube to make up the

10 mL volume The test tube then was wrapped with aluminium foil and placed in the

refrigerator at 4 degC for 4 to 18 hours to facilitate the complete extraction of the pigments The

liquid then was transferred into centrifuge tube and placed into centrifuge for 10 minutes

under 3000 rpm The optical density was determined by using spectrophotometer at 750 nm

664 run 647 nrn and 630 nm wavelength Extinction for each of the small turbidity blank was

corrected by subtracting 750 nm from 664nm 647 nm and 630 nm absorptions (APHA

2000) The concentration of chlorophyll-a in the extract after correction was calculated as

below

Chlorophyll-a = 1185 (E664-E750) - 154 (E647-E750) - 008 (E630-E750)

where

E = The ~bsorption in the respective wavelength

Calculation of the chlorophyll-a amount per unit volume is as follow

Chl-a (mgL) = (Ca x v) V

where

Ca =Chlorophyll concentration in lgmL

v = Volume of acetone in mL

V = Volume of sample in mL

Page 12: FISH FAUNA COMPOSITION AND WATER QUALITY AT BATANG … Fauna Composition... · The fisheries production of Batang Ai Hydroelectric Reservoir was estimated to be 1'1.17 kg ha -I :

Tables

Table 1

Table 2

Table 3

Table 4

Table 5

Table 6

Table 7

LIST OF TABLES

Titles Pages

Coordinates and locations of sampling stations 6

Fishing methods and habitat description 7

Species composition of fish caught at Batang Ai reservoir 18

Length-weight relationship and condition factor (K) for the 31

three dominant species

Species Diversity Species Richness and Species Evenness in 33

Batang Ai Reservoir

Stomach content and frequency of occurrence for the three 34

dominant species

Results of mass method for the three dominant species 34

IX

J

LIST OF APPENDICES

Appendix Titles Pages

Appendix 1 Vegetation that was not removed during impoundment 50

Appendix 2 Logging activity at the upstream of Batang Ai Bydroshy 50

electric Reservoir

Appendix 3 Cage culture activity 51

Appendix 4 Mass growing of rooted aquatic plant 51

x

Fish Fauna Composition and Water Quality at Batang Ai Hydroelectric Reservoir

Lubok Antu Sarawak

Nur Ezzaty binti Nazarudin

Science and Aquatic Resources Management

Faculty of Resources Science and Technology

University Malaysia Sarawak

ABSTRACT

This study was carried out in October 2014 and February 2015 to determine the fish species composition and

water quality at Batang Ai Hydroelectric reservoir area A total of six sampling stations were selected in this

tudy Fourteen water quality parameters were documented based on in-situ and ex-situ laboratory analysis that

were carried out according to the APHA (2000) methods A total of 992 individuals consisting of 20 species

from 8 families were caught in Batang Ai Hydro-electric reservoir The three most dominant species were

Cyclocheilichti1ys apogon Osteochilus wandersii and Barbonymus schwanenfeldii Results for in-situ water

qual ity parameters were pH (622-832) dissolved oxygen (07-83 mglL) conductivity (63-1207 -IScm)

temperature (263-31 3 degC) transparency (1 02-427 m) and turbidity (000-3466 FNU) For ex-situ water

quality parameters results of BODs ranged from 07-63 mgL TSS (0002-0043 giL) chlorophyll-a (170 to

3585 mglL) and for nutrients (ammonical nitrogen 003 to 253 mglL nitrate 001 to 021 mgL

orthophosphate 002 to 204 mgL and Nitrite 0001 to 0117 mgL) The fisheries production of Batang Ai

Hydroelectric Reservoir was estimated to be 1117 kg ha -I yr- I to 2067 kg ha-I yr- I Aquaculture and other

anthropogenic activities occurring within the surrounding areas of the reservoir may have negatively impacted

the water quality of Batang Ai Hydro-electric reservoir

ABSTRAK

Kajian telah dijalankan pada bulan Oktober 2014 dan Februari 2015 untuk menentukan komposisi spesies ikan

dan kualiti air di kawasan Empangan Hidro-elektrik Satang Ai Enam stesen pensampelan telah dipilih dalam

kajian ini Empatbelas parameter kualiti air telah didokumentasikan berdasarkan penganalissan in-situ dan exshysitll pen ampelan dengan mengikuti cara APHA (2000) Sebanyak 992 ekor ikan telah ditangkap terdiri daripada

20 spesies daripada 8 famili di Empangan Hidro-elektrik Satang Ai Tiga spesies dominan adalah

Cycocheilichlhys apoeon Osteochilus wandersii and Barbonymus schwanenfeldii Hasil kajian in-situ adalah

pH (622-832) oksigen terlarut (07-83 mglL) konduktiviti (63-1207 -IScm) suhu (263-313 degC) kejemihan

(102-427 m) dan kekeruhan (000-3466 FNU) Untuk kajian ex-situ hasil kajian untuk SODs adalah 07-63 mglL TSS (0002-0043 gil) klorofil-a (1 70 to 3585 mglL) dan untuk nutrien (ammonical nitrogen 003 to

253 mgL nitrat 001 to 021 mglL orthofosfat 002 to 204 mgL and nitrit 0001 to 0117 mgL) Produksi

ikan oleh Empangan Hidro-elektrik Batang Ai dianggarkan 1117 kg ha- I yr- I kepada 2067 kg ha- I yr- I

Akuakultur dan aktiviti lain berpunca daripada kegiatan manusia yang berlaku di sekeliling kawasan empangan

telah memberi kesan negatif kepada Empangan Hidro-elektrik Satang Ai

1

10 Introduction

Dams and reservoir have been designed for multiple purposes such as for irrigation

water supply tourism purposes aquaculture site and cage culture (Nyanti et al 2012)

Morley (2007) stated that due to high worldwide demand for water the creation of reservoirs

are unavoidable However this water body could also be polluted due to anthropogenic

activities A study in three biggest natural lakes in Malaysia showed that different levels of

degradation occurred due to discharged oil from motorboat untreated sewage from

communities and nearby plantations (Sharip and Zakaria 2008)

Batang Ai Hydroelectric Reservoir (BAHR) was impounded in 19851t is located 260

km from Kuching and has a surface area of 84 ha at full supply with catchment area of 1200

km~ BAHR receives inflow water from two main rivers which are Batang Ai and the Engkari

River

Malaysia has a variety of freshwater fish speCIes rangmg from dominant to rare

species A study by Chong et al (2010) stated that Malaysia has approximately 521 species

of freshwater fish A total of 63 species of fish is present in Batang Ai National Park

(Abdullah 2004) Freshwater fish is very important in several aspects that involves aquatic

ecosystem for example as the indicator for the water quality (Fausch et al 1990) and nutrient

status of the surrounding water (Hamid et al 2012)

Reseaf(~h in freshwater fisheries in Malaysia were gIven little attention when

compared to the marine fisheries This resulted in fewer information on total catch landings

and on consumption of the fishes (Salam and Gopinath 2006) Very little information on fish

fauna composition and total catch landings in BAHR have been documented According to

Jalal et al (2012) due to the damming the decline in fish community and fisheries are caused

by factors such as overexploitation of species pollution and changes in the environment The

production of fisheries depends on many factors such as cost season and types of fishing gear

2

used Abu Talib et al (2003) stated that fisheries in reservoir is done individually or in a

small group by using seine net trap as well as hook and line

The composition richness evenness and diversity were measured in order to

document the fish fauna composition at the BAHR The stomach contents of fish were

analyzed to study the feeding habits of three dominant species in BAHR The water quality

analysis were also conducted at three different areas

The objectives of this study were to

1 Document the current fish species composition and total catch of commercial fisheries

at Batang Ai Hydroelectric Reservoir

2 Determine the length-weight relationship and feeding behaviour of the dominant

species and

3 Document the water quality at selected stations

20 Literature Review

21 Reservoir

According to Thornton et al (1992) a reservoir is any natural water that has been

modified or managed to provide water for developing human activities and demands in

response to specific community needs It is often called impoundments with subsequent

inundation of the upstream land surface formed by a dam across a river The upper part of the

reservoir has a similar characteristics with the river due to the inflow of water from the river

while the lower part of the reservoir is very similar to the lake because of its stratification

(Holmgren amp Appelberg 2000)

The construction of hydroelectric dams reservoirs and artificial lakes in Malaysia

leads to destruction of the surrounding ecosystem It will affect the aquatic environment

water quality and composition of fishes Diversions from the construction of the dam will

cause big changes in topology and morphology of the river Study on water quality at Bera

Lake shows that water quality was highly ~ffected by the run-off from the nearby plantation

sewage from the communities around the lake and discharged oil from motorboats (Chong

2007) According to Fatimah et al (2002) strong thermal stratification occur in Kenyir Lake

throughout the year during both dry and wet season A study by Chong (2007) showed that

Bera Lake has high presence of nutrient

22 Threats tomiddotMalaysian reservoir

Fish communities in reservoir are facing many environmental manipulations and

degradations such as water management and fluctuation homesteading and ririparian land

development (Ali and Lee 1995) It will affect the aquatic environment water quality and the

composition of fishes Diversions from the construction of the dam will cause big changes in

topology and morphology of the river The main environmental factor that influence fish

distribution are the concentration of oxygen width depth and leaves-dead wood substrates

Pusat Khid~at M~klumat Akademik UNIVERSITI MALAYSIA SARAWAK

(Kouamelan et al 2003) The most crucial threat is over-fishing which will disturb the

nature of the fish its habitat and lower its biodiversity

23 Damming

According to Friedl amp Wiiest (2001) 800 000 artificial lakes and reservoirs have been

built which is equivalent to approximately 500 000 km2 of the land or is almost 3 of the

entire land surface on the earth Damming of rivers is truly important to sustain the

anthropogenic need such as for drinking washing other daily and industrial uses According

to Yusoff et al (2006) the water demand in Malaysia for both domestic and industrial uses

are increasing significantly from 26 billion m3 in 1990 to 37 billion m3 in 2000 Without

enough water supplies it will cause problems to daily routine for the community and

damming is the easiest way to solve it Hence they are 54 dams operated in Malaysia with the

total capacity of 12 biIlion m3year to cover the demand (Yusoff et at 2006) The purpose of

Batang Ai reservoir was for hydroelectric generation and it is also important sources of

energy producer for the Sarawak Corridor Additionally it is also act as important aquaculture

site (Ling et al 2013)

24 Fish inventory in Batang Ai National Park

Commercial fisheries play an important roles in the lives of fishing communities in

Malaysia Ali and Lee (1995) stated that commercial fish plays an important role In

Chenderoh Bukit Merah and Temenggor reservoirs the fish composition consisted of catfish

(Mystus sp) snakeheads (Channa micropeltis) cyprinids (Hampala macrolepidota Tor

tambroides Puntius bulu) Osphronemus gouramy and other species (Baluyut 1999 DOF

1998)

In Batang Ai National Park a total of 26 species from 9 families was reported by

Abdullah (2004) In addition to the earlier study done by Meredith (1993) a total of 63

species were reportedly present in Batang Ai National Park The dominant family IS

Cyprinidae followed by Ballitoridae (Abdullah 2004)

30 Materials and Methods

31 Study Site

This study was conducted at Batang Ai Hydroelectric Reservoir Six stations were

selected for water quality data collection Three stations were at the tributaries of the reservoir

and three stations were at the cage culture area (Figure 1) The coordinates for each station

was recorded using the Global Positioning System (GPS) (Gannin GPSmap 628) (Table 1)

Figure 1 The location of sampling stations at Batang Ai Reservoir Dam Sarawak (Source

Google Earth 2015)

6

Table 1 Coordinates and locations of sampling stations

Station Coordinates Locations

1 N 01 0 14 482 E 1120 02 140 Delok

2 NOlo 13033 E 111 0 58587 Telaus

3 NOlo 11155 E 111 0 52 102 Sungai Bungui

4 N 01 0 09 223 E 111 0 50 291 At the edge of the reservoir

5 NOl o 09 330 E 111 0 50 384 Near Tiang Laju cage culture

6 N 01 0 10 060 E 111 0 54 430 Kerangan Mong

32 Sample Collection

Several types of net that were used for fish collection were gill net with different mesh

sizes (254 cm 508 cm 1016 cm and 127 cm) and three-layered gill net (14 cm 4 cm and

14 cm) Sampling procedures were similar for every station where the nets was left overnight

before being retrieved the next day and habitat description were also noted for every station

(Table 2)

Table 2 Fishing methods and habitat description

Stations Fishing methods Habitat description

Three-layered net gill net

2 Three-layered net gill net

3 Three-layered net gin net

4 Three-layered net gill net

5 Three-layered net gill net

6 Three-layered net gill net

Lowest water level Hill paddy season

already burned near to logging site

At the edge of reservoir

Near to Able Asia cage culture

Greenish water 1200 cage at mouth of

this area

At the edge of reservoir

At the edge of reservoir

At the edge of reservoir

33 Sample Preservation

Fish samples was preserved in the field by using 10 formalin and was left for

approximately 72 hours before the samples were rinsed and soaked in tap water for ten

minutes and transferred into 70 ethanol for further laboratory analysis and preservation

purposes

34 Sample Identification

Fish samples was identified by using the taxonomy keys from Mohsin amp Ambak

(1991) Inger amp Chin (2002) Kottelat et al (1993) and FishBase

(httpfishbaseorgsearchphp) After the sample identification the fish was weighed by

using Shimadzu EDLB300 portable balance The total length and standard length were also

measured by using a ruler The total length is the measurement from the tip of the mouth to

the end of tail while the standard length is the measurement from the tip of the mouth to the

end of fleshy caudal peduncle (Kotelat et al 1993) After the whole process of sample

identification all of the samples were grouped together according to their species Fish

samples were kept in specimen bottles that were labelled with station number coordinates and

date of sampling

35 Stomach Content

Thirty individuals from three dominant species were selected for stomach content

analysis The stomach was weighed by using balance (Shimadzu ELB 300) after was

dissected from the fish The stomach was then preserved in 5 formalin In the laboratory

the stomach was placed in petri dish dissected by using dissecting kit (Gold cross) and the

content was analyzed under stereomicroscope (Olympus SZ51) The content was sorted

according to their type and each type of the food was weighed Other information such as the

empty mass of the stomach volume and length were recorded Stomach content then was

8

analyzed by using Frequency of Occurrence (FO) and Mass Method (MM) FO was used to

calculate the frequent types of food occur in selected species while MM was used to evaluate

the diet composition of each type of species The analysis used the following formula

Frequency of Occurrence

Nf h Dmiddot FOtS I X 100let i =

NfiSh

Mass Method

~~fiSllW 611 IJDiet 112 = x 100 E tlShW

J=l J

36 In-situ Parameters Collection

In-situ physico-chemical water quality parameters such as pH temperature dissolved

oxygen and turbidity was recorded in triplicate at three different depths In additions water

depth and transparency was also recorded ~n triplicate

The depth was recorded by using depth finder (Speedtech Instruments 67505) The pH

was recorded by using pH meter (Eutech Instruments) DO and temperature by using DO

meter (Sper Scientific 850041) and water transparency was recorded by using Secchi Disc

(KAHLSICO No 281 W A 1088 W AP - 4669) Water turbidity was determined by using

MARTINI instrument (Mi 415)

37 Ex-situ Parameters

371 Five-Day Biochemical Oxygen Demand (BODs)

Water samples at each station was collected by using a Van Dorn water sampler in

triplicates at three depthssub-surface layer (02 m) mid layer (10m) and bottom layer (20

m) They were placed in 1 L of acid washed polyethylene bottles and stored in cooler boxes

before being transported to laboratory for analyses According to APHA (2000) BOD5 test

was done at day 5 Initial DO reading was measured at the sampling site and the water sample

was transferred into 300 ml BOD glass bottle The bottle was wrapped with aluminium foil to

prevent penetration of sunlight and photosynthesis process They were then wrapped with

newspaper to prevent from being broken during transportation The samples were left in a

cooler box for 5 days After 5 days the final DO reading was determined using DO meter

(Sper Scientific 850041) The BOD5 value was determined by using the formula

BOD5 (mglL) = (DO 1 - 005)

where

0 0 1== dissolved oxygen of sample at day 1 (mgL)

DOs == dissolved oxygen after 5 days incubation at 20middotC (mgL)

372 Total Suspended Solids (TSS)

Total suspended analysis was divided into two parts which were pre-fieldtrip sampling

method and post-sampling fieldtrip method For pre-field trip sampling method filter paper

was prepared Glass fibre filter papers (GFIC 47 mm diameter 045 )lm membrane) was

rinsed with di tilled water placed on a piece of aluminium paper and left overnight at 103shy

105 OC in the oven The next day the filter paper that was left to cool in the desiccator before

the initial weight were weighed by using electronic balance For post-field trip sampling

method filtrat iOn process was carried out by usin~ vacuum filtration Water samples at each

station were collected by using a Van Dorn water sampler in triplicates at three depths of subshy

surface layer (02 m) mid layer (10 m) and bottom layer (20 m) A volume of water sample

(shaken well) was poured into the filter funnel Once all of the water has been drained out

filter paper was removed from the filtration funnel and placed into the aluminium foil The

filter paper then was dried in oven at 103-105 degC for 2 hours (APHA 2000) The filter paper

was taken out and allowed to cool before it was weighed again The drying process was

continued until a constant weight was achieved The amount of TSS was determined by using

the fonnula

TSS (mgl) = final weight (mg) - initial weight (mg) volume of water (1000 ml)

373 Cbloropbyll-a analysis

One litre water sample was filtered by using vacuum pump in semi dark room The

filter paper containing chlorophyll-a was analyzed and grounded by using grinder for 5

minutes Then 5 to 6 mL of 90 acetone was added into each sample Samples were

transferred into capped test tube and 90 acetone was added into the test tube to make up the

10 mL volume The test tube then was wrapped with aluminium foil and placed in the

refrigerator at 4 degC for 4 to 18 hours to facilitate the complete extraction of the pigments The

liquid then was transferred into centrifuge tube and placed into centrifuge for 10 minutes

under 3000 rpm The optical density was determined by using spectrophotometer at 750 nm

664 run 647 nrn and 630 nm wavelength Extinction for each of the small turbidity blank was

corrected by subtracting 750 nm from 664nm 647 nm and 630 nm absorptions (APHA

2000) The concentration of chlorophyll-a in the extract after correction was calculated as

below

Chlorophyll-a = 1185 (E664-E750) - 154 (E647-E750) - 008 (E630-E750)

where

E = The ~bsorption in the respective wavelength

Calculation of the chlorophyll-a amount per unit volume is as follow

Chl-a (mgL) = (Ca x v) V

where

Ca =Chlorophyll concentration in lgmL

v = Volume of acetone in mL

V = Volume of sample in mL

Page 13: FISH FAUNA COMPOSITION AND WATER QUALITY AT BATANG … Fauna Composition... · The fisheries production of Batang Ai Hydroelectric Reservoir was estimated to be 1'1.17 kg ha -I :

LIST OF APPENDICES

Appendix Titles Pages

Appendix 1 Vegetation that was not removed during impoundment 50

Appendix 2 Logging activity at the upstream of Batang Ai Bydroshy 50

electric Reservoir

Appendix 3 Cage culture activity 51

Appendix 4 Mass growing of rooted aquatic plant 51

x

Fish Fauna Composition and Water Quality at Batang Ai Hydroelectric Reservoir

Lubok Antu Sarawak

Nur Ezzaty binti Nazarudin

Science and Aquatic Resources Management

Faculty of Resources Science and Technology

University Malaysia Sarawak

ABSTRACT

This study was carried out in October 2014 and February 2015 to determine the fish species composition and

water quality at Batang Ai Hydroelectric reservoir area A total of six sampling stations were selected in this

tudy Fourteen water quality parameters were documented based on in-situ and ex-situ laboratory analysis that

were carried out according to the APHA (2000) methods A total of 992 individuals consisting of 20 species

from 8 families were caught in Batang Ai Hydro-electric reservoir The three most dominant species were

Cyclocheilichti1ys apogon Osteochilus wandersii and Barbonymus schwanenfeldii Results for in-situ water

qual ity parameters were pH (622-832) dissolved oxygen (07-83 mglL) conductivity (63-1207 -IScm)

temperature (263-31 3 degC) transparency (1 02-427 m) and turbidity (000-3466 FNU) For ex-situ water

quality parameters results of BODs ranged from 07-63 mgL TSS (0002-0043 giL) chlorophyll-a (170 to

3585 mglL) and for nutrients (ammonical nitrogen 003 to 253 mglL nitrate 001 to 021 mgL

orthophosphate 002 to 204 mgL and Nitrite 0001 to 0117 mgL) The fisheries production of Batang Ai

Hydroelectric Reservoir was estimated to be 1117 kg ha -I yr- I to 2067 kg ha-I yr- I Aquaculture and other

anthropogenic activities occurring within the surrounding areas of the reservoir may have negatively impacted

the water quality of Batang Ai Hydro-electric reservoir

ABSTRAK

Kajian telah dijalankan pada bulan Oktober 2014 dan Februari 2015 untuk menentukan komposisi spesies ikan

dan kualiti air di kawasan Empangan Hidro-elektrik Satang Ai Enam stesen pensampelan telah dipilih dalam

kajian ini Empatbelas parameter kualiti air telah didokumentasikan berdasarkan penganalissan in-situ dan exshysitll pen ampelan dengan mengikuti cara APHA (2000) Sebanyak 992 ekor ikan telah ditangkap terdiri daripada

20 spesies daripada 8 famili di Empangan Hidro-elektrik Satang Ai Tiga spesies dominan adalah

Cycocheilichlhys apoeon Osteochilus wandersii and Barbonymus schwanenfeldii Hasil kajian in-situ adalah

pH (622-832) oksigen terlarut (07-83 mglL) konduktiviti (63-1207 -IScm) suhu (263-313 degC) kejemihan

(102-427 m) dan kekeruhan (000-3466 FNU) Untuk kajian ex-situ hasil kajian untuk SODs adalah 07-63 mglL TSS (0002-0043 gil) klorofil-a (1 70 to 3585 mglL) dan untuk nutrien (ammonical nitrogen 003 to

253 mgL nitrat 001 to 021 mglL orthofosfat 002 to 204 mgL and nitrit 0001 to 0117 mgL) Produksi

ikan oleh Empangan Hidro-elektrik Batang Ai dianggarkan 1117 kg ha- I yr- I kepada 2067 kg ha- I yr- I

Akuakultur dan aktiviti lain berpunca daripada kegiatan manusia yang berlaku di sekeliling kawasan empangan

telah memberi kesan negatif kepada Empangan Hidro-elektrik Satang Ai

1

10 Introduction

Dams and reservoir have been designed for multiple purposes such as for irrigation

water supply tourism purposes aquaculture site and cage culture (Nyanti et al 2012)

Morley (2007) stated that due to high worldwide demand for water the creation of reservoirs

are unavoidable However this water body could also be polluted due to anthropogenic

activities A study in three biggest natural lakes in Malaysia showed that different levels of

degradation occurred due to discharged oil from motorboat untreated sewage from

communities and nearby plantations (Sharip and Zakaria 2008)

Batang Ai Hydroelectric Reservoir (BAHR) was impounded in 19851t is located 260

km from Kuching and has a surface area of 84 ha at full supply with catchment area of 1200

km~ BAHR receives inflow water from two main rivers which are Batang Ai and the Engkari

River

Malaysia has a variety of freshwater fish speCIes rangmg from dominant to rare

species A study by Chong et al (2010) stated that Malaysia has approximately 521 species

of freshwater fish A total of 63 species of fish is present in Batang Ai National Park

(Abdullah 2004) Freshwater fish is very important in several aspects that involves aquatic

ecosystem for example as the indicator for the water quality (Fausch et al 1990) and nutrient

status of the surrounding water (Hamid et al 2012)

Reseaf(~h in freshwater fisheries in Malaysia were gIven little attention when

compared to the marine fisheries This resulted in fewer information on total catch landings

and on consumption of the fishes (Salam and Gopinath 2006) Very little information on fish

fauna composition and total catch landings in BAHR have been documented According to

Jalal et al (2012) due to the damming the decline in fish community and fisheries are caused

by factors such as overexploitation of species pollution and changes in the environment The

production of fisheries depends on many factors such as cost season and types of fishing gear

2

used Abu Talib et al (2003) stated that fisheries in reservoir is done individually or in a

small group by using seine net trap as well as hook and line

The composition richness evenness and diversity were measured in order to

document the fish fauna composition at the BAHR The stomach contents of fish were

analyzed to study the feeding habits of three dominant species in BAHR The water quality

analysis were also conducted at three different areas

The objectives of this study were to

1 Document the current fish species composition and total catch of commercial fisheries

at Batang Ai Hydroelectric Reservoir

2 Determine the length-weight relationship and feeding behaviour of the dominant

species and

3 Document the water quality at selected stations

20 Literature Review

21 Reservoir

According to Thornton et al (1992) a reservoir is any natural water that has been

modified or managed to provide water for developing human activities and demands in

response to specific community needs It is often called impoundments with subsequent

inundation of the upstream land surface formed by a dam across a river The upper part of the

reservoir has a similar characteristics with the river due to the inflow of water from the river

while the lower part of the reservoir is very similar to the lake because of its stratification

(Holmgren amp Appelberg 2000)

The construction of hydroelectric dams reservoirs and artificial lakes in Malaysia

leads to destruction of the surrounding ecosystem It will affect the aquatic environment

water quality and composition of fishes Diversions from the construction of the dam will

cause big changes in topology and morphology of the river Study on water quality at Bera

Lake shows that water quality was highly ~ffected by the run-off from the nearby plantation

sewage from the communities around the lake and discharged oil from motorboats (Chong

2007) According to Fatimah et al (2002) strong thermal stratification occur in Kenyir Lake

throughout the year during both dry and wet season A study by Chong (2007) showed that

Bera Lake has high presence of nutrient

22 Threats tomiddotMalaysian reservoir

Fish communities in reservoir are facing many environmental manipulations and

degradations such as water management and fluctuation homesteading and ririparian land

development (Ali and Lee 1995) It will affect the aquatic environment water quality and the

composition of fishes Diversions from the construction of the dam will cause big changes in

topology and morphology of the river The main environmental factor that influence fish

distribution are the concentration of oxygen width depth and leaves-dead wood substrates

Pusat Khid~at M~klumat Akademik UNIVERSITI MALAYSIA SARAWAK

(Kouamelan et al 2003) The most crucial threat is over-fishing which will disturb the

nature of the fish its habitat and lower its biodiversity

23 Damming

According to Friedl amp Wiiest (2001) 800 000 artificial lakes and reservoirs have been

built which is equivalent to approximately 500 000 km2 of the land or is almost 3 of the

entire land surface on the earth Damming of rivers is truly important to sustain the

anthropogenic need such as for drinking washing other daily and industrial uses According

to Yusoff et al (2006) the water demand in Malaysia for both domestic and industrial uses

are increasing significantly from 26 billion m3 in 1990 to 37 billion m3 in 2000 Without

enough water supplies it will cause problems to daily routine for the community and

damming is the easiest way to solve it Hence they are 54 dams operated in Malaysia with the

total capacity of 12 biIlion m3year to cover the demand (Yusoff et at 2006) The purpose of

Batang Ai reservoir was for hydroelectric generation and it is also important sources of

energy producer for the Sarawak Corridor Additionally it is also act as important aquaculture

site (Ling et al 2013)

24 Fish inventory in Batang Ai National Park

Commercial fisheries play an important roles in the lives of fishing communities in

Malaysia Ali and Lee (1995) stated that commercial fish plays an important role In

Chenderoh Bukit Merah and Temenggor reservoirs the fish composition consisted of catfish

(Mystus sp) snakeheads (Channa micropeltis) cyprinids (Hampala macrolepidota Tor

tambroides Puntius bulu) Osphronemus gouramy and other species (Baluyut 1999 DOF

1998)

In Batang Ai National Park a total of 26 species from 9 families was reported by

Abdullah (2004) In addition to the earlier study done by Meredith (1993) a total of 63

species were reportedly present in Batang Ai National Park The dominant family IS

Cyprinidae followed by Ballitoridae (Abdullah 2004)

30 Materials and Methods

31 Study Site

This study was conducted at Batang Ai Hydroelectric Reservoir Six stations were

selected for water quality data collection Three stations were at the tributaries of the reservoir

and three stations were at the cage culture area (Figure 1) The coordinates for each station

was recorded using the Global Positioning System (GPS) (Gannin GPSmap 628) (Table 1)

Figure 1 The location of sampling stations at Batang Ai Reservoir Dam Sarawak (Source

Google Earth 2015)

6

Table 1 Coordinates and locations of sampling stations

Station Coordinates Locations

1 N 01 0 14 482 E 1120 02 140 Delok

2 NOlo 13033 E 111 0 58587 Telaus

3 NOlo 11155 E 111 0 52 102 Sungai Bungui

4 N 01 0 09 223 E 111 0 50 291 At the edge of the reservoir

5 NOl o 09 330 E 111 0 50 384 Near Tiang Laju cage culture

6 N 01 0 10 060 E 111 0 54 430 Kerangan Mong

32 Sample Collection

Several types of net that were used for fish collection were gill net with different mesh

sizes (254 cm 508 cm 1016 cm and 127 cm) and three-layered gill net (14 cm 4 cm and

14 cm) Sampling procedures were similar for every station where the nets was left overnight

before being retrieved the next day and habitat description were also noted for every station

(Table 2)

Table 2 Fishing methods and habitat description

Stations Fishing methods Habitat description

Three-layered net gill net

2 Three-layered net gill net

3 Three-layered net gin net

4 Three-layered net gill net

5 Three-layered net gill net

6 Three-layered net gill net

Lowest water level Hill paddy season

already burned near to logging site

At the edge of reservoir

Near to Able Asia cage culture

Greenish water 1200 cage at mouth of

this area

At the edge of reservoir

At the edge of reservoir

At the edge of reservoir

33 Sample Preservation

Fish samples was preserved in the field by using 10 formalin and was left for

approximately 72 hours before the samples were rinsed and soaked in tap water for ten

minutes and transferred into 70 ethanol for further laboratory analysis and preservation

purposes

34 Sample Identification

Fish samples was identified by using the taxonomy keys from Mohsin amp Ambak

(1991) Inger amp Chin (2002) Kottelat et al (1993) and FishBase

(httpfishbaseorgsearchphp) After the sample identification the fish was weighed by

using Shimadzu EDLB300 portable balance The total length and standard length were also

measured by using a ruler The total length is the measurement from the tip of the mouth to

the end of tail while the standard length is the measurement from the tip of the mouth to the

end of fleshy caudal peduncle (Kotelat et al 1993) After the whole process of sample

identification all of the samples were grouped together according to their species Fish

samples were kept in specimen bottles that were labelled with station number coordinates and

date of sampling

35 Stomach Content

Thirty individuals from three dominant species were selected for stomach content

analysis The stomach was weighed by using balance (Shimadzu ELB 300) after was

dissected from the fish The stomach was then preserved in 5 formalin In the laboratory

the stomach was placed in petri dish dissected by using dissecting kit (Gold cross) and the

content was analyzed under stereomicroscope (Olympus SZ51) The content was sorted

according to their type and each type of the food was weighed Other information such as the

empty mass of the stomach volume and length were recorded Stomach content then was

8

analyzed by using Frequency of Occurrence (FO) and Mass Method (MM) FO was used to

calculate the frequent types of food occur in selected species while MM was used to evaluate

the diet composition of each type of species The analysis used the following formula

Frequency of Occurrence

Nf h Dmiddot FOtS I X 100let i =

NfiSh

Mass Method

~~fiSllW 611 IJDiet 112 = x 100 E tlShW

J=l J

36 In-situ Parameters Collection

In-situ physico-chemical water quality parameters such as pH temperature dissolved

oxygen and turbidity was recorded in triplicate at three different depths In additions water

depth and transparency was also recorded ~n triplicate

The depth was recorded by using depth finder (Speedtech Instruments 67505) The pH

was recorded by using pH meter (Eutech Instruments) DO and temperature by using DO

meter (Sper Scientific 850041) and water transparency was recorded by using Secchi Disc

(KAHLSICO No 281 W A 1088 W AP - 4669) Water turbidity was determined by using

MARTINI instrument (Mi 415)

37 Ex-situ Parameters

371 Five-Day Biochemical Oxygen Demand (BODs)

Water samples at each station was collected by using a Van Dorn water sampler in

triplicates at three depthssub-surface layer (02 m) mid layer (10m) and bottom layer (20

m) They were placed in 1 L of acid washed polyethylene bottles and stored in cooler boxes

before being transported to laboratory for analyses According to APHA (2000) BOD5 test

was done at day 5 Initial DO reading was measured at the sampling site and the water sample

was transferred into 300 ml BOD glass bottle The bottle was wrapped with aluminium foil to

prevent penetration of sunlight and photosynthesis process They were then wrapped with

newspaper to prevent from being broken during transportation The samples were left in a

cooler box for 5 days After 5 days the final DO reading was determined using DO meter

(Sper Scientific 850041) The BOD5 value was determined by using the formula

BOD5 (mglL) = (DO 1 - 005)

where

0 0 1== dissolved oxygen of sample at day 1 (mgL)

DOs == dissolved oxygen after 5 days incubation at 20middotC (mgL)

372 Total Suspended Solids (TSS)

Total suspended analysis was divided into two parts which were pre-fieldtrip sampling

method and post-sampling fieldtrip method For pre-field trip sampling method filter paper

was prepared Glass fibre filter papers (GFIC 47 mm diameter 045 )lm membrane) was

rinsed with di tilled water placed on a piece of aluminium paper and left overnight at 103shy

105 OC in the oven The next day the filter paper that was left to cool in the desiccator before

the initial weight were weighed by using electronic balance For post-field trip sampling

method filtrat iOn process was carried out by usin~ vacuum filtration Water samples at each

station were collected by using a Van Dorn water sampler in triplicates at three depths of subshy

surface layer (02 m) mid layer (10 m) and bottom layer (20 m) A volume of water sample

(shaken well) was poured into the filter funnel Once all of the water has been drained out

filter paper was removed from the filtration funnel and placed into the aluminium foil The

filter paper then was dried in oven at 103-105 degC for 2 hours (APHA 2000) The filter paper

was taken out and allowed to cool before it was weighed again The drying process was

continued until a constant weight was achieved The amount of TSS was determined by using

the fonnula

TSS (mgl) = final weight (mg) - initial weight (mg) volume of water (1000 ml)

373 Cbloropbyll-a analysis

One litre water sample was filtered by using vacuum pump in semi dark room The

filter paper containing chlorophyll-a was analyzed and grounded by using grinder for 5

minutes Then 5 to 6 mL of 90 acetone was added into each sample Samples were

transferred into capped test tube and 90 acetone was added into the test tube to make up the

10 mL volume The test tube then was wrapped with aluminium foil and placed in the

refrigerator at 4 degC for 4 to 18 hours to facilitate the complete extraction of the pigments The

liquid then was transferred into centrifuge tube and placed into centrifuge for 10 minutes

under 3000 rpm The optical density was determined by using spectrophotometer at 750 nm

664 run 647 nrn and 630 nm wavelength Extinction for each of the small turbidity blank was

corrected by subtracting 750 nm from 664nm 647 nm and 630 nm absorptions (APHA

2000) The concentration of chlorophyll-a in the extract after correction was calculated as

below

Chlorophyll-a = 1185 (E664-E750) - 154 (E647-E750) - 008 (E630-E750)

where

E = The ~bsorption in the respective wavelength

Calculation of the chlorophyll-a amount per unit volume is as follow

Chl-a (mgL) = (Ca x v) V

where

Ca =Chlorophyll concentration in lgmL

v = Volume of acetone in mL

V = Volume of sample in mL

Page 14: FISH FAUNA COMPOSITION AND WATER QUALITY AT BATANG … Fauna Composition... · The fisheries production of Batang Ai Hydroelectric Reservoir was estimated to be 1'1.17 kg ha -I :

Fish Fauna Composition and Water Quality at Batang Ai Hydroelectric Reservoir

Lubok Antu Sarawak

Nur Ezzaty binti Nazarudin

Science and Aquatic Resources Management

Faculty of Resources Science and Technology

University Malaysia Sarawak

ABSTRACT

This study was carried out in October 2014 and February 2015 to determine the fish species composition and

water quality at Batang Ai Hydroelectric reservoir area A total of six sampling stations were selected in this

tudy Fourteen water quality parameters were documented based on in-situ and ex-situ laboratory analysis that

were carried out according to the APHA (2000) methods A total of 992 individuals consisting of 20 species

from 8 families were caught in Batang Ai Hydro-electric reservoir The three most dominant species were

Cyclocheilichti1ys apogon Osteochilus wandersii and Barbonymus schwanenfeldii Results for in-situ water

qual ity parameters were pH (622-832) dissolved oxygen (07-83 mglL) conductivity (63-1207 -IScm)

temperature (263-31 3 degC) transparency (1 02-427 m) and turbidity (000-3466 FNU) For ex-situ water

quality parameters results of BODs ranged from 07-63 mgL TSS (0002-0043 giL) chlorophyll-a (170 to

3585 mglL) and for nutrients (ammonical nitrogen 003 to 253 mglL nitrate 001 to 021 mgL

orthophosphate 002 to 204 mgL and Nitrite 0001 to 0117 mgL) The fisheries production of Batang Ai

Hydroelectric Reservoir was estimated to be 1117 kg ha -I yr- I to 2067 kg ha-I yr- I Aquaculture and other

anthropogenic activities occurring within the surrounding areas of the reservoir may have negatively impacted

the water quality of Batang Ai Hydro-electric reservoir

ABSTRAK

Kajian telah dijalankan pada bulan Oktober 2014 dan Februari 2015 untuk menentukan komposisi spesies ikan

dan kualiti air di kawasan Empangan Hidro-elektrik Satang Ai Enam stesen pensampelan telah dipilih dalam

kajian ini Empatbelas parameter kualiti air telah didokumentasikan berdasarkan penganalissan in-situ dan exshysitll pen ampelan dengan mengikuti cara APHA (2000) Sebanyak 992 ekor ikan telah ditangkap terdiri daripada

20 spesies daripada 8 famili di Empangan Hidro-elektrik Satang Ai Tiga spesies dominan adalah

Cycocheilichlhys apoeon Osteochilus wandersii and Barbonymus schwanenfeldii Hasil kajian in-situ adalah

pH (622-832) oksigen terlarut (07-83 mglL) konduktiviti (63-1207 -IScm) suhu (263-313 degC) kejemihan

(102-427 m) dan kekeruhan (000-3466 FNU) Untuk kajian ex-situ hasil kajian untuk SODs adalah 07-63 mglL TSS (0002-0043 gil) klorofil-a (1 70 to 3585 mglL) dan untuk nutrien (ammonical nitrogen 003 to

253 mgL nitrat 001 to 021 mglL orthofosfat 002 to 204 mgL and nitrit 0001 to 0117 mgL) Produksi

ikan oleh Empangan Hidro-elektrik Batang Ai dianggarkan 1117 kg ha- I yr- I kepada 2067 kg ha- I yr- I

Akuakultur dan aktiviti lain berpunca daripada kegiatan manusia yang berlaku di sekeliling kawasan empangan

telah memberi kesan negatif kepada Empangan Hidro-elektrik Satang Ai

1

10 Introduction

Dams and reservoir have been designed for multiple purposes such as for irrigation

water supply tourism purposes aquaculture site and cage culture (Nyanti et al 2012)

Morley (2007) stated that due to high worldwide demand for water the creation of reservoirs

are unavoidable However this water body could also be polluted due to anthropogenic

activities A study in three biggest natural lakes in Malaysia showed that different levels of

degradation occurred due to discharged oil from motorboat untreated sewage from

communities and nearby plantations (Sharip and Zakaria 2008)

Batang Ai Hydroelectric Reservoir (BAHR) was impounded in 19851t is located 260

km from Kuching and has a surface area of 84 ha at full supply with catchment area of 1200

km~ BAHR receives inflow water from two main rivers which are Batang Ai and the Engkari

River

Malaysia has a variety of freshwater fish speCIes rangmg from dominant to rare

species A study by Chong et al (2010) stated that Malaysia has approximately 521 species

of freshwater fish A total of 63 species of fish is present in Batang Ai National Park

(Abdullah 2004) Freshwater fish is very important in several aspects that involves aquatic

ecosystem for example as the indicator for the water quality (Fausch et al 1990) and nutrient

status of the surrounding water (Hamid et al 2012)

Reseaf(~h in freshwater fisheries in Malaysia were gIven little attention when

compared to the marine fisheries This resulted in fewer information on total catch landings

and on consumption of the fishes (Salam and Gopinath 2006) Very little information on fish

fauna composition and total catch landings in BAHR have been documented According to

Jalal et al (2012) due to the damming the decline in fish community and fisheries are caused

by factors such as overexploitation of species pollution and changes in the environment The

production of fisheries depends on many factors such as cost season and types of fishing gear

2

used Abu Talib et al (2003) stated that fisheries in reservoir is done individually or in a

small group by using seine net trap as well as hook and line

The composition richness evenness and diversity were measured in order to

document the fish fauna composition at the BAHR The stomach contents of fish were

analyzed to study the feeding habits of three dominant species in BAHR The water quality

analysis were also conducted at three different areas

The objectives of this study were to

1 Document the current fish species composition and total catch of commercial fisheries

at Batang Ai Hydroelectric Reservoir

2 Determine the length-weight relationship and feeding behaviour of the dominant

species and

3 Document the water quality at selected stations

20 Literature Review

21 Reservoir

According to Thornton et al (1992) a reservoir is any natural water that has been

modified or managed to provide water for developing human activities and demands in

response to specific community needs It is often called impoundments with subsequent

inundation of the upstream land surface formed by a dam across a river The upper part of the

reservoir has a similar characteristics with the river due to the inflow of water from the river

while the lower part of the reservoir is very similar to the lake because of its stratification

(Holmgren amp Appelberg 2000)

The construction of hydroelectric dams reservoirs and artificial lakes in Malaysia

leads to destruction of the surrounding ecosystem It will affect the aquatic environment

water quality and composition of fishes Diversions from the construction of the dam will

cause big changes in topology and morphology of the river Study on water quality at Bera

Lake shows that water quality was highly ~ffected by the run-off from the nearby plantation

sewage from the communities around the lake and discharged oil from motorboats (Chong

2007) According to Fatimah et al (2002) strong thermal stratification occur in Kenyir Lake

throughout the year during both dry and wet season A study by Chong (2007) showed that

Bera Lake has high presence of nutrient

22 Threats tomiddotMalaysian reservoir

Fish communities in reservoir are facing many environmental manipulations and

degradations such as water management and fluctuation homesteading and ririparian land

development (Ali and Lee 1995) It will affect the aquatic environment water quality and the

composition of fishes Diversions from the construction of the dam will cause big changes in

topology and morphology of the river The main environmental factor that influence fish

distribution are the concentration of oxygen width depth and leaves-dead wood substrates

Pusat Khid~at M~klumat Akademik UNIVERSITI MALAYSIA SARAWAK

(Kouamelan et al 2003) The most crucial threat is over-fishing which will disturb the

nature of the fish its habitat and lower its biodiversity

23 Damming

According to Friedl amp Wiiest (2001) 800 000 artificial lakes and reservoirs have been

built which is equivalent to approximately 500 000 km2 of the land or is almost 3 of the

entire land surface on the earth Damming of rivers is truly important to sustain the

anthropogenic need such as for drinking washing other daily and industrial uses According

to Yusoff et al (2006) the water demand in Malaysia for both domestic and industrial uses

are increasing significantly from 26 billion m3 in 1990 to 37 billion m3 in 2000 Without

enough water supplies it will cause problems to daily routine for the community and

damming is the easiest way to solve it Hence they are 54 dams operated in Malaysia with the

total capacity of 12 biIlion m3year to cover the demand (Yusoff et at 2006) The purpose of

Batang Ai reservoir was for hydroelectric generation and it is also important sources of

energy producer for the Sarawak Corridor Additionally it is also act as important aquaculture

site (Ling et al 2013)

24 Fish inventory in Batang Ai National Park

Commercial fisheries play an important roles in the lives of fishing communities in

Malaysia Ali and Lee (1995) stated that commercial fish plays an important role In

Chenderoh Bukit Merah and Temenggor reservoirs the fish composition consisted of catfish

(Mystus sp) snakeheads (Channa micropeltis) cyprinids (Hampala macrolepidota Tor

tambroides Puntius bulu) Osphronemus gouramy and other species (Baluyut 1999 DOF

1998)

In Batang Ai National Park a total of 26 species from 9 families was reported by

Abdullah (2004) In addition to the earlier study done by Meredith (1993) a total of 63

species were reportedly present in Batang Ai National Park The dominant family IS

Cyprinidae followed by Ballitoridae (Abdullah 2004)

30 Materials and Methods

31 Study Site

This study was conducted at Batang Ai Hydroelectric Reservoir Six stations were

selected for water quality data collection Three stations were at the tributaries of the reservoir

and three stations were at the cage culture area (Figure 1) The coordinates for each station

was recorded using the Global Positioning System (GPS) (Gannin GPSmap 628) (Table 1)

Figure 1 The location of sampling stations at Batang Ai Reservoir Dam Sarawak (Source

Google Earth 2015)

6

Table 1 Coordinates and locations of sampling stations

Station Coordinates Locations

1 N 01 0 14 482 E 1120 02 140 Delok

2 NOlo 13033 E 111 0 58587 Telaus

3 NOlo 11155 E 111 0 52 102 Sungai Bungui

4 N 01 0 09 223 E 111 0 50 291 At the edge of the reservoir

5 NOl o 09 330 E 111 0 50 384 Near Tiang Laju cage culture

6 N 01 0 10 060 E 111 0 54 430 Kerangan Mong

32 Sample Collection

Several types of net that were used for fish collection were gill net with different mesh

sizes (254 cm 508 cm 1016 cm and 127 cm) and three-layered gill net (14 cm 4 cm and

14 cm) Sampling procedures were similar for every station where the nets was left overnight

before being retrieved the next day and habitat description were also noted for every station

(Table 2)

Table 2 Fishing methods and habitat description

Stations Fishing methods Habitat description

Three-layered net gill net

2 Three-layered net gill net

3 Three-layered net gin net

4 Three-layered net gill net

5 Three-layered net gill net

6 Three-layered net gill net

Lowest water level Hill paddy season

already burned near to logging site

At the edge of reservoir

Near to Able Asia cage culture

Greenish water 1200 cage at mouth of

this area

At the edge of reservoir

At the edge of reservoir

At the edge of reservoir

33 Sample Preservation

Fish samples was preserved in the field by using 10 formalin and was left for

approximately 72 hours before the samples were rinsed and soaked in tap water for ten

minutes and transferred into 70 ethanol for further laboratory analysis and preservation

purposes

34 Sample Identification

Fish samples was identified by using the taxonomy keys from Mohsin amp Ambak

(1991) Inger amp Chin (2002) Kottelat et al (1993) and FishBase

(httpfishbaseorgsearchphp) After the sample identification the fish was weighed by

using Shimadzu EDLB300 portable balance The total length and standard length were also

measured by using a ruler The total length is the measurement from the tip of the mouth to

the end of tail while the standard length is the measurement from the tip of the mouth to the

end of fleshy caudal peduncle (Kotelat et al 1993) After the whole process of sample

identification all of the samples were grouped together according to their species Fish

samples were kept in specimen bottles that were labelled with station number coordinates and

date of sampling

35 Stomach Content

Thirty individuals from three dominant species were selected for stomach content

analysis The stomach was weighed by using balance (Shimadzu ELB 300) after was

dissected from the fish The stomach was then preserved in 5 formalin In the laboratory

the stomach was placed in petri dish dissected by using dissecting kit (Gold cross) and the

content was analyzed under stereomicroscope (Olympus SZ51) The content was sorted

according to their type and each type of the food was weighed Other information such as the

empty mass of the stomach volume and length were recorded Stomach content then was

8

analyzed by using Frequency of Occurrence (FO) and Mass Method (MM) FO was used to

calculate the frequent types of food occur in selected species while MM was used to evaluate

the diet composition of each type of species The analysis used the following formula

Frequency of Occurrence

Nf h Dmiddot FOtS I X 100let i =

NfiSh

Mass Method

~~fiSllW 611 IJDiet 112 = x 100 E tlShW

J=l J

36 In-situ Parameters Collection

In-situ physico-chemical water quality parameters such as pH temperature dissolved

oxygen and turbidity was recorded in triplicate at three different depths In additions water

depth and transparency was also recorded ~n triplicate

The depth was recorded by using depth finder (Speedtech Instruments 67505) The pH

was recorded by using pH meter (Eutech Instruments) DO and temperature by using DO

meter (Sper Scientific 850041) and water transparency was recorded by using Secchi Disc

(KAHLSICO No 281 W A 1088 W AP - 4669) Water turbidity was determined by using

MARTINI instrument (Mi 415)

37 Ex-situ Parameters

371 Five-Day Biochemical Oxygen Demand (BODs)

Water samples at each station was collected by using a Van Dorn water sampler in

triplicates at three depthssub-surface layer (02 m) mid layer (10m) and bottom layer (20

m) They were placed in 1 L of acid washed polyethylene bottles and stored in cooler boxes

before being transported to laboratory for analyses According to APHA (2000) BOD5 test

was done at day 5 Initial DO reading was measured at the sampling site and the water sample

was transferred into 300 ml BOD glass bottle The bottle was wrapped with aluminium foil to

prevent penetration of sunlight and photosynthesis process They were then wrapped with

newspaper to prevent from being broken during transportation The samples were left in a

cooler box for 5 days After 5 days the final DO reading was determined using DO meter

(Sper Scientific 850041) The BOD5 value was determined by using the formula

BOD5 (mglL) = (DO 1 - 005)

where

0 0 1== dissolved oxygen of sample at day 1 (mgL)

DOs == dissolved oxygen after 5 days incubation at 20middotC (mgL)

372 Total Suspended Solids (TSS)

Total suspended analysis was divided into two parts which were pre-fieldtrip sampling

method and post-sampling fieldtrip method For pre-field trip sampling method filter paper

was prepared Glass fibre filter papers (GFIC 47 mm diameter 045 )lm membrane) was

rinsed with di tilled water placed on a piece of aluminium paper and left overnight at 103shy

105 OC in the oven The next day the filter paper that was left to cool in the desiccator before

the initial weight were weighed by using electronic balance For post-field trip sampling

method filtrat iOn process was carried out by usin~ vacuum filtration Water samples at each

station were collected by using a Van Dorn water sampler in triplicates at three depths of subshy

surface layer (02 m) mid layer (10 m) and bottom layer (20 m) A volume of water sample

(shaken well) was poured into the filter funnel Once all of the water has been drained out

filter paper was removed from the filtration funnel and placed into the aluminium foil The

filter paper then was dried in oven at 103-105 degC for 2 hours (APHA 2000) The filter paper

was taken out and allowed to cool before it was weighed again The drying process was

continued until a constant weight was achieved The amount of TSS was determined by using

the fonnula

TSS (mgl) = final weight (mg) - initial weight (mg) volume of water (1000 ml)

373 Cbloropbyll-a analysis

One litre water sample was filtered by using vacuum pump in semi dark room The

filter paper containing chlorophyll-a was analyzed and grounded by using grinder for 5

minutes Then 5 to 6 mL of 90 acetone was added into each sample Samples were

transferred into capped test tube and 90 acetone was added into the test tube to make up the

10 mL volume The test tube then was wrapped with aluminium foil and placed in the

refrigerator at 4 degC for 4 to 18 hours to facilitate the complete extraction of the pigments The

liquid then was transferred into centrifuge tube and placed into centrifuge for 10 minutes

under 3000 rpm The optical density was determined by using spectrophotometer at 750 nm

664 run 647 nrn and 630 nm wavelength Extinction for each of the small turbidity blank was

corrected by subtracting 750 nm from 664nm 647 nm and 630 nm absorptions (APHA

2000) The concentration of chlorophyll-a in the extract after correction was calculated as

below

Chlorophyll-a = 1185 (E664-E750) - 154 (E647-E750) - 008 (E630-E750)

where

E = The ~bsorption in the respective wavelength

Calculation of the chlorophyll-a amount per unit volume is as follow

Chl-a (mgL) = (Ca x v) V

where

Ca =Chlorophyll concentration in lgmL

v = Volume of acetone in mL

V = Volume of sample in mL

Page 15: FISH FAUNA COMPOSITION AND WATER QUALITY AT BATANG … Fauna Composition... · The fisheries production of Batang Ai Hydroelectric Reservoir was estimated to be 1'1.17 kg ha -I :

10 Introduction

Dams and reservoir have been designed for multiple purposes such as for irrigation

water supply tourism purposes aquaculture site and cage culture (Nyanti et al 2012)

Morley (2007) stated that due to high worldwide demand for water the creation of reservoirs

are unavoidable However this water body could also be polluted due to anthropogenic

activities A study in three biggest natural lakes in Malaysia showed that different levels of

degradation occurred due to discharged oil from motorboat untreated sewage from

communities and nearby plantations (Sharip and Zakaria 2008)

Batang Ai Hydroelectric Reservoir (BAHR) was impounded in 19851t is located 260

km from Kuching and has a surface area of 84 ha at full supply with catchment area of 1200

km~ BAHR receives inflow water from two main rivers which are Batang Ai and the Engkari

River

Malaysia has a variety of freshwater fish speCIes rangmg from dominant to rare

species A study by Chong et al (2010) stated that Malaysia has approximately 521 species

of freshwater fish A total of 63 species of fish is present in Batang Ai National Park

(Abdullah 2004) Freshwater fish is very important in several aspects that involves aquatic

ecosystem for example as the indicator for the water quality (Fausch et al 1990) and nutrient

status of the surrounding water (Hamid et al 2012)

Reseaf(~h in freshwater fisheries in Malaysia were gIven little attention when

compared to the marine fisheries This resulted in fewer information on total catch landings

and on consumption of the fishes (Salam and Gopinath 2006) Very little information on fish

fauna composition and total catch landings in BAHR have been documented According to

Jalal et al (2012) due to the damming the decline in fish community and fisheries are caused

by factors such as overexploitation of species pollution and changes in the environment The

production of fisheries depends on many factors such as cost season and types of fishing gear

2

used Abu Talib et al (2003) stated that fisheries in reservoir is done individually or in a

small group by using seine net trap as well as hook and line

The composition richness evenness and diversity were measured in order to

document the fish fauna composition at the BAHR The stomach contents of fish were

analyzed to study the feeding habits of three dominant species in BAHR The water quality

analysis were also conducted at three different areas

The objectives of this study were to

1 Document the current fish species composition and total catch of commercial fisheries

at Batang Ai Hydroelectric Reservoir

2 Determine the length-weight relationship and feeding behaviour of the dominant

species and

3 Document the water quality at selected stations

20 Literature Review

21 Reservoir

According to Thornton et al (1992) a reservoir is any natural water that has been

modified or managed to provide water for developing human activities and demands in

response to specific community needs It is often called impoundments with subsequent

inundation of the upstream land surface formed by a dam across a river The upper part of the

reservoir has a similar characteristics with the river due to the inflow of water from the river

while the lower part of the reservoir is very similar to the lake because of its stratification

(Holmgren amp Appelberg 2000)

The construction of hydroelectric dams reservoirs and artificial lakes in Malaysia

leads to destruction of the surrounding ecosystem It will affect the aquatic environment

water quality and composition of fishes Diversions from the construction of the dam will

cause big changes in topology and morphology of the river Study on water quality at Bera

Lake shows that water quality was highly ~ffected by the run-off from the nearby plantation

sewage from the communities around the lake and discharged oil from motorboats (Chong

2007) According to Fatimah et al (2002) strong thermal stratification occur in Kenyir Lake

throughout the year during both dry and wet season A study by Chong (2007) showed that

Bera Lake has high presence of nutrient

22 Threats tomiddotMalaysian reservoir

Fish communities in reservoir are facing many environmental manipulations and

degradations such as water management and fluctuation homesteading and ririparian land

development (Ali and Lee 1995) It will affect the aquatic environment water quality and the

composition of fishes Diversions from the construction of the dam will cause big changes in

topology and morphology of the river The main environmental factor that influence fish

distribution are the concentration of oxygen width depth and leaves-dead wood substrates

Pusat Khid~at M~klumat Akademik UNIVERSITI MALAYSIA SARAWAK

(Kouamelan et al 2003) The most crucial threat is over-fishing which will disturb the

nature of the fish its habitat and lower its biodiversity

23 Damming

According to Friedl amp Wiiest (2001) 800 000 artificial lakes and reservoirs have been

built which is equivalent to approximately 500 000 km2 of the land or is almost 3 of the

entire land surface on the earth Damming of rivers is truly important to sustain the

anthropogenic need such as for drinking washing other daily and industrial uses According

to Yusoff et al (2006) the water demand in Malaysia for both domestic and industrial uses

are increasing significantly from 26 billion m3 in 1990 to 37 billion m3 in 2000 Without

enough water supplies it will cause problems to daily routine for the community and

damming is the easiest way to solve it Hence they are 54 dams operated in Malaysia with the

total capacity of 12 biIlion m3year to cover the demand (Yusoff et at 2006) The purpose of

Batang Ai reservoir was for hydroelectric generation and it is also important sources of

energy producer for the Sarawak Corridor Additionally it is also act as important aquaculture

site (Ling et al 2013)

24 Fish inventory in Batang Ai National Park

Commercial fisheries play an important roles in the lives of fishing communities in

Malaysia Ali and Lee (1995) stated that commercial fish plays an important role In

Chenderoh Bukit Merah and Temenggor reservoirs the fish composition consisted of catfish

(Mystus sp) snakeheads (Channa micropeltis) cyprinids (Hampala macrolepidota Tor

tambroides Puntius bulu) Osphronemus gouramy and other species (Baluyut 1999 DOF

1998)

In Batang Ai National Park a total of 26 species from 9 families was reported by

Abdullah (2004) In addition to the earlier study done by Meredith (1993) a total of 63

species were reportedly present in Batang Ai National Park The dominant family IS

Cyprinidae followed by Ballitoridae (Abdullah 2004)

30 Materials and Methods

31 Study Site

This study was conducted at Batang Ai Hydroelectric Reservoir Six stations were

selected for water quality data collection Three stations were at the tributaries of the reservoir

and three stations were at the cage culture area (Figure 1) The coordinates for each station

was recorded using the Global Positioning System (GPS) (Gannin GPSmap 628) (Table 1)

Figure 1 The location of sampling stations at Batang Ai Reservoir Dam Sarawak (Source

Google Earth 2015)

6

Table 1 Coordinates and locations of sampling stations

Station Coordinates Locations

1 N 01 0 14 482 E 1120 02 140 Delok

2 NOlo 13033 E 111 0 58587 Telaus

3 NOlo 11155 E 111 0 52 102 Sungai Bungui

4 N 01 0 09 223 E 111 0 50 291 At the edge of the reservoir

5 NOl o 09 330 E 111 0 50 384 Near Tiang Laju cage culture

6 N 01 0 10 060 E 111 0 54 430 Kerangan Mong

32 Sample Collection

Several types of net that were used for fish collection were gill net with different mesh

sizes (254 cm 508 cm 1016 cm and 127 cm) and three-layered gill net (14 cm 4 cm and

14 cm) Sampling procedures were similar for every station where the nets was left overnight

before being retrieved the next day and habitat description were also noted for every station

(Table 2)

Table 2 Fishing methods and habitat description

Stations Fishing methods Habitat description

Three-layered net gill net

2 Three-layered net gill net

3 Three-layered net gin net

4 Three-layered net gill net

5 Three-layered net gill net

6 Three-layered net gill net

Lowest water level Hill paddy season

already burned near to logging site

At the edge of reservoir

Near to Able Asia cage culture

Greenish water 1200 cage at mouth of

this area

At the edge of reservoir

At the edge of reservoir

At the edge of reservoir

33 Sample Preservation

Fish samples was preserved in the field by using 10 formalin and was left for

approximately 72 hours before the samples were rinsed and soaked in tap water for ten

minutes and transferred into 70 ethanol for further laboratory analysis and preservation

purposes

34 Sample Identification

Fish samples was identified by using the taxonomy keys from Mohsin amp Ambak

(1991) Inger amp Chin (2002) Kottelat et al (1993) and FishBase

(httpfishbaseorgsearchphp) After the sample identification the fish was weighed by

using Shimadzu EDLB300 portable balance The total length and standard length were also

measured by using a ruler The total length is the measurement from the tip of the mouth to

the end of tail while the standard length is the measurement from the tip of the mouth to the

end of fleshy caudal peduncle (Kotelat et al 1993) After the whole process of sample

identification all of the samples were grouped together according to their species Fish

samples were kept in specimen bottles that were labelled with station number coordinates and

date of sampling

35 Stomach Content

Thirty individuals from three dominant species were selected for stomach content

analysis The stomach was weighed by using balance (Shimadzu ELB 300) after was

dissected from the fish The stomach was then preserved in 5 formalin In the laboratory

the stomach was placed in petri dish dissected by using dissecting kit (Gold cross) and the

content was analyzed under stereomicroscope (Olympus SZ51) The content was sorted

according to their type and each type of the food was weighed Other information such as the

empty mass of the stomach volume and length were recorded Stomach content then was

8

analyzed by using Frequency of Occurrence (FO) and Mass Method (MM) FO was used to

calculate the frequent types of food occur in selected species while MM was used to evaluate

the diet composition of each type of species The analysis used the following formula

Frequency of Occurrence

Nf h Dmiddot FOtS I X 100let i =

NfiSh

Mass Method

~~fiSllW 611 IJDiet 112 = x 100 E tlShW

J=l J

36 In-situ Parameters Collection

In-situ physico-chemical water quality parameters such as pH temperature dissolved

oxygen and turbidity was recorded in triplicate at three different depths In additions water

depth and transparency was also recorded ~n triplicate

The depth was recorded by using depth finder (Speedtech Instruments 67505) The pH

was recorded by using pH meter (Eutech Instruments) DO and temperature by using DO

meter (Sper Scientific 850041) and water transparency was recorded by using Secchi Disc

(KAHLSICO No 281 W A 1088 W AP - 4669) Water turbidity was determined by using

MARTINI instrument (Mi 415)

37 Ex-situ Parameters

371 Five-Day Biochemical Oxygen Demand (BODs)

Water samples at each station was collected by using a Van Dorn water sampler in

triplicates at three depthssub-surface layer (02 m) mid layer (10m) and bottom layer (20

m) They were placed in 1 L of acid washed polyethylene bottles and stored in cooler boxes

before being transported to laboratory for analyses According to APHA (2000) BOD5 test

was done at day 5 Initial DO reading was measured at the sampling site and the water sample

was transferred into 300 ml BOD glass bottle The bottle was wrapped with aluminium foil to

prevent penetration of sunlight and photosynthesis process They were then wrapped with

newspaper to prevent from being broken during transportation The samples were left in a

cooler box for 5 days After 5 days the final DO reading was determined using DO meter

(Sper Scientific 850041) The BOD5 value was determined by using the formula

BOD5 (mglL) = (DO 1 - 005)

where

0 0 1== dissolved oxygen of sample at day 1 (mgL)

DOs == dissolved oxygen after 5 days incubation at 20middotC (mgL)

372 Total Suspended Solids (TSS)

Total suspended analysis was divided into two parts which were pre-fieldtrip sampling

method and post-sampling fieldtrip method For pre-field trip sampling method filter paper

was prepared Glass fibre filter papers (GFIC 47 mm diameter 045 )lm membrane) was

rinsed with di tilled water placed on a piece of aluminium paper and left overnight at 103shy

105 OC in the oven The next day the filter paper that was left to cool in the desiccator before

the initial weight were weighed by using electronic balance For post-field trip sampling

method filtrat iOn process was carried out by usin~ vacuum filtration Water samples at each

station were collected by using a Van Dorn water sampler in triplicates at three depths of subshy

surface layer (02 m) mid layer (10 m) and bottom layer (20 m) A volume of water sample

(shaken well) was poured into the filter funnel Once all of the water has been drained out

filter paper was removed from the filtration funnel and placed into the aluminium foil The

filter paper then was dried in oven at 103-105 degC for 2 hours (APHA 2000) The filter paper

was taken out and allowed to cool before it was weighed again The drying process was

continued until a constant weight was achieved The amount of TSS was determined by using

the fonnula

TSS (mgl) = final weight (mg) - initial weight (mg) volume of water (1000 ml)

373 Cbloropbyll-a analysis

One litre water sample was filtered by using vacuum pump in semi dark room The

filter paper containing chlorophyll-a was analyzed and grounded by using grinder for 5

minutes Then 5 to 6 mL of 90 acetone was added into each sample Samples were

transferred into capped test tube and 90 acetone was added into the test tube to make up the

10 mL volume The test tube then was wrapped with aluminium foil and placed in the

refrigerator at 4 degC for 4 to 18 hours to facilitate the complete extraction of the pigments The

liquid then was transferred into centrifuge tube and placed into centrifuge for 10 minutes

under 3000 rpm The optical density was determined by using spectrophotometer at 750 nm

664 run 647 nrn and 630 nm wavelength Extinction for each of the small turbidity blank was

corrected by subtracting 750 nm from 664nm 647 nm and 630 nm absorptions (APHA

2000) The concentration of chlorophyll-a in the extract after correction was calculated as

below

Chlorophyll-a = 1185 (E664-E750) - 154 (E647-E750) - 008 (E630-E750)

where

E = The ~bsorption in the respective wavelength

Calculation of the chlorophyll-a amount per unit volume is as follow

Chl-a (mgL) = (Ca x v) V

where

Ca =Chlorophyll concentration in lgmL

v = Volume of acetone in mL

V = Volume of sample in mL

Page 16: FISH FAUNA COMPOSITION AND WATER QUALITY AT BATANG … Fauna Composition... · The fisheries production of Batang Ai Hydroelectric Reservoir was estimated to be 1'1.17 kg ha -I :

used Abu Talib et al (2003) stated that fisheries in reservoir is done individually or in a

small group by using seine net trap as well as hook and line

The composition richness evenness and diversity were measured in order to

document the fish fauna composition at the BAHR The stomach contents of fish were

analyzed to study the feeding habits of three dominant species in BAHR The water quality

analysis were also conducted at three different areas

The objectives of this study were to

1 Document the current fish species composition and total catch of commercial fisheries

at Batang Ai Hydroelectric Reservoir

2 Determine the length-weight relationship and feeding behaviour of the dominant

species and

3 Document the water quality at selected stations

20 Literature Review

21 Reservoir

According to Thornton et al (1992) a reservoir is any natural water that has been

modified or managed to provide water for developing human activities and demands in

response to specific community needs It is often called impoundments with subsequent

inundation of the upstream land surface formed by a dam across a river The upper part of the

reservoir has a similar characteristics with the river due to the inflow of water from the river

while the lower part of the reservoir is very similar to the lake because of its stratification

(Holmgren amp Appelberg 2000)

The construction of hydroelectric dams reservoirs and artificial lakes in Malaysia

leads to destruction of the surrounding ecosystem It will affect the aquatic environment

water quality and composition of fishes Diversions from the construction of the dam will

cause big changes in topology and morphology of the river Study on water quality at Bera

Lake shows that water quality was highly ~ffected by the run-off from the nearby plantation

sewage from the communities around the lake and discharged oil from motorboats (Chong

2007) According to Fatimah et al (2002) strong thermal stratification occur in Kenyir Lake

throughout the year during both dry and wet season A study by Chong (2007) showed that

Bera Lake has high presence of nutrient

22 Threats tomiddotMalaysian reservoir

Fish communities in reservoir are facing many environmental manipulations and

degradations such as water management and fluctuation homesteading and ririparian land

development (Ali and Lee 1995) It will affect the aquatic environment water quality and the

composition of fishes Diversions from the construction of the dam will cause big changes in

topology and morphology of the river The main environmental factor that influence fish

distribution are the concentration of oxygen width depth and leaves-dead wood substrates

Pusat Khid~at M~klumat Akademik UNIVERSITI MALAYSIA SARAWAK

(Kouamelan et al 2003) The most crucial threat is over-fishing which will disturb the

nature of the fish its habitat and lower its biodiversity

23 Damming

According to Friedl amp Wiiest (2001) 800 000 artificial lakes and reservoirs have been

built which is equivalent to approximately 500 000 km2 of the land or is almost 3 of the

entire land surface on the earth Damming of rivers is truly important to sustain the

anthropogenic need such as for drinking washing other daily and industrial uses According

to Yusoff et al (2006) the water demand in Malaysia for both domestic and industrial uses

are increasing significantly from 26 billion m3 in 1990 to 37 billion m3 in 2000 Without

enough water supplies it will cause problems to daily routine for the community and

damming is the easiest way to solve it Hence they are 54 dams operated in Malaysia with the

total capacity of 12 biIlion m3year to cover the demand (Yusoff et at 2006) The purpose of

Batang Ai reservoir was for hydroelectric generation and it is also important sources of

energy producer for the Sarawak Corridor Additionally it is also act as important aquaculture

site (Ling et al 2013)

24 Fish inventory in Batang Ai National Park

Commercial fisheries play an important roles in the lives of fishing communities in

Malaysia Ali and Lee (1995) stated that commercial fish plays an important role In

Chenderoh Bukit Merah and Temenggor reservoirs the fish composition consisted of catfish

(Mystus sp) snakeheads (Channa micropeltis) cyprinids (Hampala macrolepidota Tor

tambroides Puntius bulu) Osphronemus gouramy and other species (Baluyut 1999 DOF

1998)

In Batang Ai National Park a total of 26 species from 9 families was reported by

Abdullah (2004) In addition to the earlier study done by Meredith (1993) a total of 63

species were reportedly present in Batang Ai National Park The dominant family IS

Cyprinidae followed by Ballitoridae (Abdullah 2004)

30 Materials and Methods

31 Study Site

This study was conducted at Batang Ai Hydroelectric Reservoir Six stations were

selected for water quality data collection Three stations were at the tributaries of the reservoir

and three stations were at the cage culture area (Figure 1) The coordinates for each station

was recorded using the Global Positioning System (GPS) (Gannin GPSmap 628) (Table 1)

Figure 1 The location of sampling stations at Batang Ai Reservoir Dam Sarawak (Source

Google Earth 2015)

6

Table 1 Coordinates and locations of sampling stations

Station Coordinates Locations

1 N 01 0 14 482 E 1120 02 140 Delok

2 NOlo 13033 E 111 0 58587 Telaus

3 NOlo 11155 E 111 0 52 102 Sungai Bungui

4 N 01 0 09 223 E 111 0 50 291 At the edge of the reservoir

5 NOl o 09 330 E 111 0 50 384 Near Tiang Laju cage culture

6 N 01 0 10 060 E 111 0 54 430 Kerangan Mong

32 Sample Collection

Several types of net that were used for fish collection were gill net with different mesh

sizes (254 cm 508 cm 1016 cm and 127 cm) and three-layered gill net (14 cm 4 cm and

14 cm) Sampling procedures were similar for every station where the nets was left overnight

before being retrieved the next day and habitat description were also noted for every station

(Table 2)

Table 2 Fishing methods and habitat description

Stations Fishing methods Habitat description

Three-layered net gill net

2 Three-layered net gill net

3 Three-layered net gin net

4 Three-layered net gill net

5 Three-layered net gill net

6 Three-layered net gill net

Lowest water level Hill paddy season

already burned near to logging site

At the edge of reservoir

Near to Able Asia cage culture

Greenish water 1200 cage at mouth of

this area

At the edge of reservoir

At the edge of reservoir

At the edge of reservoir

33 Sample Preservation

Fish samples was preserved in the field by using 10 formalin and was left for

approximately 72 hours before the samples were rinsed and soaked in tap water for ten

minutes and transferred into 70 ethanol for further laboratory analysis and preservation

purposes

34 Sample Identification

Fish samples was identified by using the taxonomy keys from Mohsin amp Ambak

(1991) Inger amp Chin (2002) Kottelat et al (1993) and FishBase

(httpfishbaseorgsearchphp) After the sample identification the fish was weighed by

using Shimadzu EDLB300 portable balance The total length and standard length were also

measured by using a ruler The total length is the measurement from the tip of the mouth to

the end of tail while the standard length is the measurement from the tip of the mouth to the

end of fleshy caudal peduncle (Kotelat et al 1993) After the whole process of sample

identification all of the samples were grouped together according to their species Fish

samples were kept in specimen bottles that were labelled with station number coordinates and

date of sampling

35 Stomach Content

Thirty individuals from three dominant species were selected for stomach content

analysis The stomach was weighed by using balance (Shimadzu ELB 300) after was

dissected from the fish The stomach was then preserved in 5 formalin In the laboratory

the stomach was placed in petri dish dissected by using dissecting kit (Gold cross) and the

content was analyzed under stereomicroscope (Olympus SZ51) The content was sorted

according to their type and each type of the food was weighed Other information such as the

empty mass of the stomach volume and length were recorded Stomach content then was

8

analyzed by using Frequency of Occurrence (FO) and Mass Method (MM) FO was used to

calculate the frequent types of food occur in selected species while MM was used to evaluate

the diet composition of each type of species The analysis used the following formula

Frequency of Occurrence

Nf h Dmiddot FOtS I X 100let i =

NfiSh

Mass Method

~~fiSllW 611 IJDiet 112 = x 100 E tlShW

J=l J

36 In-situ Parameters Collection

In-situ physico-chemical water quality parameters such as pH temperature dissolved

oxygen and turbidity was recorded in triplicate at three different depths In additions water

depth and transparency was also recorded ~n triplicate

The depth was recorded by using depth finder (Speedtech Instruments 67505) The pH

was recorded by using pH meter (Eutech Instruments) DO and temperature by using DO

meter (Sper Scientific 850041) and water transparency was recorded by using Secchi Disc

(KAHLSICO No 281 W A 1088 W AP - 4669) Water turbidity was determined by using

MARTINI instrument (Mi 415)

37 Ex-situ Parameters

371 Five-Day Biochemical Oxygen Demand (BODs)

Water samples at each station was collected by using a Van Dorn water sampler in

triplicates at three depthssub-surface layer (02 m) mid layer (10m) and bottom layer (20

m) They were placed in 1 L of acid washed polyethylene bottles and stored in cooler boxes

before being transported to laboratory for analyses According to APHA (2000) BOD5 test

was done at day 5 Initial DO reading was measured at the sampling site and the water sample

was transferred into 300 ml BOD glass bottle The bottle was wrapped with aluminium foil to

prevent penetration of sunlight and photosynthesis process They were then wrapped with

newspaper to prevent from being broken during transportation The samples were left in a

cooler box for 5 days After 5 days the final DO reading was determined using DO meter

(Sper Scientific 850041) The BOD5 value was determined by using the formula

BOD5 (mglL) = (DO 1 - 005)

where

0 0 1== dissolved oxygen of sample at day 1 (mgL)

DOs == dissolved oxygen after 5 days incubation at 20middotC (mgL)

372 Total Suspended Solids (TSS)

Total suspended analysis was divided into two parts which were pre-fieldtrip sampling

method and post-sampling fieldtrip method For pre-field trip sampling method filter paper

was prepared Glass fibre filter papers (GFIC 47 mm diameter 045 )lm membrane) was

rinsed with di tilled water placed on a piece of aluminium paper and left overnight at 103shy

105 OC in the oven The next day the filter paper that was left to cool in the desiccator before

the initial weight were weighed by using electronic balance For post-field trip sampling

method filtrat iOn process was carried out by usin~ vacuum filtration Water samples at each

station were collected by using a Van Dorn water sampler in triplicates at three depths of subshy

surface layer (02 m) mid layer (10 m) and bottom layer (20 m) A volume of water sample

(shaken well) was poured into the filter funnel Once all of the water has been drained out

filter paper was removed from the filtration funnel and placed into the aluminium foil The

filter paper then was dried in oven at 103-105 degC for 2 hours (APHA 2000) The filter paper

was taken out and allowed to cool before it was weighed again The drying process was

continued until a constant weight was achieved The amount of TSS was determined by using

the fonnula

TSS (mgl) = final weight (mg) - initial weight (mg) volume of water (1000 ml)

373 Cbloropbyll-a analysis

One litre water sample was filtered by using vacuum pump in semi dark room The

filter paper containing chlorophyll-a was analyzed and grounded by using grinder for 5

minutes Then 5 to 6 mL of 90 acetone was added into each sample Samples were

transferred into capped test tube and 90 acetone was added into the test tube to make up the

10 mL volume The test tube then was wrapped with aluminium foil and placed in the

refrigerator at 4 degC for 4 to 18 hours to facilitate the complete extraction of the pigments The

liquid then was transferred into centrifuge tube and placed into centrifuge for 10 minutes

under 3000 rpm The optical density was determined by using spectrophotometer at 750 nm

664 run 647 nrn and 630 nm wavelength Extinction for each of the small turbidity blank was

corrected by subtracting 750 nm from 664nm 647 nm and 630 nm absorptions (APHA

2000) The concentration of chlorophyll-a in the extract after correction was calculated as

below

Chlorophyll-a = 1185 (E664-E750) - 154 (E647-E750) - 008 (E630-E750)

where

E = The ~bsorption in the respective wavelength

Calculation of the chlorophyll-a amount per unit volume is as follow

Chl-a (mgL) = (Ca x v) V

where

Ca =Chlorophyll concentration in lgmL

v = Volume of acetone in mL

V = Volume of sample in mL

Page 17: FISH FAUNA COMPOSITION AND WATER QUALITY AT BATANG … Fauna Composition... · The fisheries production of Batang Ai Hydroelectric Reservoir was estimated to be 1'1.17 kg ha -I :

20 Literature Review

21 Reservoir

According to Thornton et al (1992) a reservoir is any natural water that has been

modified or managed to provide water for developing human activities and demands in

response to specific community needs It is often called impoundments with subsequent

inundation of the upstream land surface formed by a dam across a river The upper part of the

reservoir has a similar characteristics with the river due to the inflow of water from the river

while the lower part of the reservoir is very similar to the lake because of its stratification

(Holmgren amp Appelberg 2000)

The construction of hydroelectric dams reservoirs and artificial lakes in Malaysia

leads to destruction of the surrounding ecosystem It will affect the aquatic environment

water quality and composition of fishes Diversions from the construction of the dam will

cause big changes in topology and morphology of the river Study on water quality at Bera

Lake shows that water quality was highly ~ffected by the run-off from the nearby plantation

sewage from the communities around the lake and discharged oil from motorboats (Chong

2007) According to Fatimah et al (2002) strong thermal stratification occur in Kenyir Lake

throughout the year during both dry and wet season A study by Chong (2007) showed that

Bera Lake has high presence of nutrient

22 Threats tomiddotMalaysian reservoir

Fish communities in reservoir are facing many environmental manipulations and

degradations such as water management and fluctuation homesteading and ririparian land

development (Ali and Lee 1995) It will affect the aquatic environment water quality and the

composition of fishes Diversions from the construction of the dam will cause big changes in

topology and morphology of the river The main environmental factor that influence fish

distribution are the concentration of oxygen width depth and leaves-dead wood substrates

Pusat Khid~at M~klumat Akademik UNIVERSITI MALAYSIA SARAWAK

(Kouamelan et al 2003) The most crucial threat is over-fishing which will disturb the

nature of the fish its habitat and lower its biodiversity

23 Damming

According to Friedl amp Wiiest (2001) 800 000 artificial lakes and reservoirs have been

built which is equivalent to approximately 500 000 km2 of the land or is almost 3 of the

entire land surface on the earth Damming of rivers is truly important to sustain the

anthropogenic need such as for drinking washing other daily and industrial uses According

to Yusoff et al (2006) the water demand in Malaysia for both domestic and industrial uses

are increasing significantly from 26 billion m3 in 1990 to 37 billion m3 in 2000 Without

enough water supplies it will cause problems to daily routine for the community and

damming is the easiest way to solve it Hence they are 54 dams operated in Malaysia with the

total capacity of 12 biIlion m3year to cover the demand (Yusoff et at 2006) The purpose of

Batang Ai reservoir was for hydroelectric generation and it is also important sources of

energy producer for the Sarawak Corridor Additionally it is also act as important aquaculture

site (Ling et al 2013)

24 Fish inventory in Batang Ai National Park

Commercial fisheries play an important roles in the lives of fishing communities in

Malaysia Ali and Lee (1995) stated that commercial fish plays an important role In

Chenderoh Bukit Merah and Temenggor reservoirs the fish composition consisted of catfish

(Mystus sp) snakeheads (Channa micropeltis) cyprinids (Hampala macrolepidota Tor

tambroides Puntius bulu) Osphronemus gouramy and other species (Baluyut 1999 DOF

1998)

In Batang Ai National Park a total of 26 species from 9 families was reported by

Abdullah (2004) In addition to the earlier study done by Meredith (1993) a total of 63

species were reportedly present in Batang Ai National Park The dominant family IS

Cyprinidae followed by Ballitoridae (Abdullah 2004)

30 Materials and Methods

31 Study Site

This study was conducted at Batang Ai Hydroelectric Reservoir Six stations were

selected for water quality data collection Three stations were at the tributaries of the reservoir

and three stations were at the cage culture area (Figure 1) The coordinates for each station

was recorded using the Global Positioning System (GPS) (Gannin GPSmap 628) (Table 1)

Figure 1 The location of sampling stations at Batang Ai Reservoir Dam Sarawak (Source

Google Earth 2015)

6

Table 1 Coordinates and locations of sampling stations

Station Coordinates Locations

1 N 01 0 14 482 E 1120 02 140 Delok

2 NOlo 13033 E 111 0 58587 Telaus

3 NOlo 11155 E 111 0 52 102 Sungai Bungui

4 N 01 0 09 223 E 111 0 50 291 At the edge of the reservoir

5 NOl o 09 330 E 111 0 50 384 Near Tiang Laju cage culture

6 N 01 0 10 060 E 111 0 54 430 Kerangan Mong

32 Sample Collection

Several types of net that were used for fish collection were gill net with different mesh

sizes (254 cm 508 cm 1016 cm and 127 cm) and three-layered gill net (14 cm 4 cm and

14 cm) Sampling procedures were similar for every station where the nets was left overnight

before being retrieved the next day and habitat description were also noted for every station

(Table 2)

Table 2 Fishing methods and habitat description

Stations Fishing methods Habitat description

Three-layered net gill net

2 Three-layered net gill net

3 Three-layered net gin net

4 Three-layered net gill net

5 Three-layered net gill net

6 Three-layered net gill net

Lowest water level Hill paddy season

already burned near to logging site

At the edge of reservoir

Near to Able Asia cage culture

Greenish water 1200 cage at mouth of

this area

At the edge of reservoir

At the edge of reservoir

At the edge of reservoir

33 Sample Preservation

Fish samples was preserved in the field by using 10 formalin and was left for

approximately 72 hours before the samples were rinsed and soaked in tap water for ten

minutes and transferred into 70 ethanol for further laboratory analysis and preservation

purposes

34 Sample Identification

Fish samples was identified by using the taxonomy keys from Mohsin amp Ambak

(1991) Inger amp Chin (2002) Kottelat et al (1993) and FishBase

(httpfishbaseorgsearchphp) After the sample identification the fish was weighed by

using Shimadzu EDLB300 portable balance The total length and standard length were also

measured by using a ruler The total length is the measurement from the tip of the mouth to

the end of tail while the standard length is the measurement from the tip of the mouth to the

end of fleshy caudal peduncle (Kotelat et al 1993) After the whole process of sample

identification all of the samples were grouped together according to their species Fish

samples were kept in specimen bottles that were labelled with station number coordinates and

date of sampling

35 Stomach Content

Thirty individuals from three dominant species were selected for stomach content

analysis The stomach was weighed by using balance (Shimadzu ELB 300) after was

dissected from the fish The stomach was then preserved in 5 formalin In the laboratory

the stomach was placed in petri dish dissected by using dissecting kit (Gold cross) and the

content was analyzed under stereomicroscope (Olympus SZ51) The content was sorted

according to their type and each type of the food was weighed Other information such as the

empty mass of the stomach volume and length were recorded Stomach content then was

8

analyzed by using Frequency of Occurrence (FO) and Mass Method (MM) FO was used to

calculate the frequent types of food occur in selected species while MM was used to evaluate

the diet composition of each type of species The analysis used the following formula

Frequency of Occurrence

Nf h Dmiddot FOtS I X 100let i =

NfiSh

Mass Method

~~fiSllW 611 IJDiet 112 = x 100 E tlShW

J=l J

36 In-situ Parameters Collection

In-situ physico-chemical water quality parameters such as pH temperature dissolved

oxygen and turbidity was recorded in triplicate at three different depths In additions water

depth and transparency was also recorded ~n triplicate

The depth was recorded by using depth finder (Speedtech Instruments 67505) The pH

was recorded by using pH meter (Eutech Instruments) DO and temperature by using DO

meter (Sper Scientific 850041) and water transparency was recorded by using Secchi Disc

(KAHLSICO No 281 W A 1088 W AP - 4669) Water turbidity was determined by using

MARTINI instrument (Mi 415)

37 Ex-situ Parameters

371 Five-Day Biochemical Oxygen Demand (BODs)

Water samples at each station was collected by using a Van Dorn water sampler in

triplicates at three depthssub-surface layer (02 m) mid layer (10m) and bottom layer (20

m) They were placed in 1 L of acid washed polyethylene bottles and stored in cooler boxes

before being transported to laboratory for analyses According to APHA (2000) BOD5 test

was done at day 5 Initial DO reading was measured at the sampling site and the water sample

was transferred into 300 ml BOD glass bottle The bottle was wrapped with aluminium foil to

prevent penetration of sunlight and photosynthesis process They were then wrapped with

newspaper to prevent from being broken during transportation The samples were left in a

cooler box for 5 days After 5 days the final DO reading was determined using DO meter

(Sper Scientific 850041) The BOD5 value was determined by using the formula

BOD5 (mglL) = (DO 1 - 005)

where

0 0 1== dissolved oxygen of sample at day 1 (mgL)

DOs == dissolved oxygen after 5 days incubation at 20middotC (mgL)

372 Total Suspended Solids (TSS)

Total suspended analysis was divided into two parts which were pre-fieldtrip sampling

method and post-sampling fieldtrip method For pre-field trip sampling method filter paper

was prepared Glass fibre filter papers (GFIC 47 mm diameter 045 )lm membrane) was

rinsed with di tilled water placed on a piece of aluminium paper and left overnight at 103shy

105 OC in the oven The next day the filter paper that was left to cool in the desiccator before

the initial weight were weighed by using electronic balance For post-field trip sampling

method filtrat iOn process was carried out by usin~ vacuum filtration Water samples at each

station were collected by using a Van Dorn water sampler in triplicates at three depths of subshy

surface layer (02 m) mid layer (10 m) and bottom layer (20 m) A volume of water sample

(shaken well) was poured into the filter funnel Once all of the water has been drained out

filter paper was removed from the filtration funnel and placed into the aluminium foil The

filter paper then was dried in oven at 103-105 degC for 2 hours (APHA 2000) The filter paper

was taken out and allowed to cool before it was weighed again The drying process was

continued until a constant weight was achieved The amount of TSS was determined by using

the fonnula

TSS (mgl) = final weight (mg) - initial weight (mg) volume of water (1000 ml)

373 Cbloropbyll-a analysis

One litre water sample was filtered by using vacuum pump in semi dark room The

filter paper containing chlorophyll-a was analyzed and grounded by using grinder for 5

minutes Then 5 to 6 mL of 90 acetone was added into each sample Samples were

transferred into capped test tube and 90 acetone was added into the test tube to make up the

10 mL volume The test tube then was wrapped with aluminium foil and placed in the

refrigerator at 4 degC for 4 to 18 hours to facilitate the complete extraction of the pigments The

liquid then was transferred into centrifuge tube and placed into centrifuge for 10 minutes

under 3000 rpm The optical density was determined by using spectrophotometer at 750 nm

664 run 647 nrn and 630 nm wavelength Extinction for each of the small turbidity blank was

corrected by subtracting 750 nm from 664nm 647 nm and 630 nm absorptions (APHA

2000) The concentration of chlorophyll-a in the extract after correction was calculated as

below

Chlorophyll-a = 1185 (E664-E750) - 154 (E647-E750) - 008 (E630-E750)

where

E = The ~bsorption in the respective wavelength

Calculation of the chlorophyll-a amount per unit volume is as follow

Chl-a (mgL) = (Ca x v) V

where

Ca =Chlorophyll concentration in lgmL

v = Volume of acetone in mL

V = Volume of sample in mL

Page 18: FISH FAUNA COMPOSITION AND WATER QUALITY AT BATANG … Fauna Composition... · The fisheries production of Batang Ai Hydroelectric Reservoir was estimated to be 1'1.17 kg ha -I :

Pusat Khid~at M~klumat Akademik UNIVERSITI MALAYSIA SARAWAK

(Kouamelan et al 2003) The most crucial threat is over-fishing which will disturb the

nature of the fish its habitat and lower its biodiversity

23 Damming

According to Friedl amp Wiiest (2001) 800 000 artificial lakes and reservoirs have been

built which is equivalent to approximately 500 000 km2 of the land or is almost 3 of the

entire land surface on the earth Damming of rivers is truly important to sustain the

anthropogenic need such as for drinking washing other daily and industrial uses According

to Yusoff et al (2006) the water demand in Malaysia for both domestic and industrial uses

are increasing significantly from 26 billion m3 in 1990 to 37 billion m3 in 2000 Without

enough water supplies it will cause problems to daily routine for the community and

damming is the easiest way to solve it Hence they are 54 dams operated in Malaysia with the

total capacity of 12 biIlion m3year to cover the demand (Yusoff et at 2006) The purpose of

Batang Ai reservoir was for hydroelectric generation and it is also important sources of

energy producer for the Sarawak Corridor Additionally it is also act as important aquaculture

site (Ling et al 2013)

24 Fish inventory in Batang Ai National Park

Commercial fisheries play an important roles in the lives of fishing communities in

Malaysia Ali and Lee (1995) stated that commercial fish plays an important role In

Chenderoh Bukit Merah and Temenggor reservoirs the fish composition consisted of catfish

(Mystus sp) snakeheads (Channa micropeltis) cyprinids (Hampala macrolepidota Tor

tambroides Puntius bulu) Osphronemus gouramy and other species (Baluyut 1999 DOF

1998)

In Batang Ai National Park a total of 26 species from 9 families was reported by

Abdullah (2004) In addition to the earlier study done by Meredith (1993) a total of 63

species were reportedly present in Batang Ai National Park The dominant family IS

Cyprinidae followed by Ballitoridae (Abdullah 2004)

30 Materials and Methods

31 Study Site

This study was conducted at Batang Ai Hydroelectric Reservoir Six stations were

selected for water quality data collection Three stations were at the tributaries of the reservoir

and three stations were at the cage culture area (Figure 1) The coordinates for each station

was recorded using the Global Positioning System (GPS) (Gannin GPSmap 628) (Table 1)

Figure 1 The location of sampling stations at Batang Ai Reservoir Dam Sarawak (Source

Google Earth 2015)

6

Table 1 Coordinates and locations of sampling stations

Station Coordinates Locations

1 N 01 0 14 482 E 1120 02 140 Delok

2 NOlo 13033 E 111 0 58587 Telaus

3 NOlo 11155 E 111 0 52 102 Sungai Bungui

4 N 01 0 09 223 E 111 0 50 291 At the edge of the reservoir

5 NOl o 09 330 E 111 0 50 384 Near Tiang Laju cage culture

6 N 01 0 10 060 E 111 0 54 430 Kerangan Mong

32 Sample Collection

Several types of net that were used for fish collection were gill net with different mesh

sizes (254 cm 508 cm 1016 cm and 127 cm) and three-layered gill net (14 cm 4 cm and

14 cm) Sampling procedures were similar for every station where the nets was left overnight

before being retrieved the next day and habitat description were also noted for every station

(Table 2)

Table 2 Fishing methods and habitat description

Stations Fishing methods Habitat description

Three-layered net gill net

2 Three-layered net gill net

3 Three-layered net gin net

4 Three-layered net gill net

5 Three-layered net gill net

6 Three-layered net gill net

Lowest water level Hill paddy season

already burned near to logging site

At the edge of reservoir

Near to Able Asia cage culture

Greenish water 1200 cage at mouth of

this area

At the edge of reservoir

At the edge of reservoir

At the edge of reservoir

33 Sample Preservation

Fish samples was preserved in the field by using 10 formalin and was left for

approximately 72 hours before the samples were rinsed and soaked in tap water for ten

minutes and transferred into 70 ethanol for further laboratory analysis and preservation

purposes

34 Sample Identification

Fish samples was identified by using the taxonomy keys from Mohsin amp Ambak

(1991) Inger amp Chin (2002) Kottelat et al (1993) and FishBase

(httpfishbaseorgsearchphp) After the sample identification the fish was weighed by

using Shimadzu EDLB300 portable balance The total length and standard length were also

measured by using a ruler The total length is the measurement from the tip of the mouth to

the end of tail while the standard length is the measurement from the tip of the mouth to the

end of fleshy caudal peduncle (Kotelat et al 1993) After the whole process of sample

identification all of the samples were grouped together according to their species Fish

samples were kept in specimen bottles that were labelled with station number coordinates and

date of sampling

35 Stomach Content

Thirty individuals from three dominant species were selected for stomach content

analysis The stomach was weighed by using balance (Shimadzu ELB 300) after was

dissected from the fish The stomach was then preserved in 5 formalin In the laboratory

the stomach was placed in petri dish dissected by using dissecting kit (Gold cross) and the

content was analyzed under stereomicroscope (Olympus SZ51) The content was sorted

according to their type and each type of the food was weighed Other information such as the

empty mass of the stomach volume and length were recorded Stomach content then was

8

analyzed by using Frequency of Occurrence (FO) and Mass Method (MM) FO was used to

calculate the frequent types of food occur in selected species while MM was used to evaluate

the diet composition of each type of species The analysis used the following formula

Frequency of Occurrence

Nf h Dmiddot FOtS I X 100let i =

NfiSh

Mass Method

~~fiSllW 611 IJDiet 112 = x 100 E tlShW

J=l J

36 In-situ Parameters Collection

In-situ physico-chemical water quality parameters such as pH temperature dissolved

oxygen and turbidity was recorded in triplicate at three different depths In additions water

depth and transparency was also recorded ~n triplicate

The depth was recorded by using depth finder (Speedtech Instruments 67505) The pH

was recorded by using pH meter (Eutech Instruments) DO and temperature by using DO

meter (Sper Scientific 850041) and water transparency was recorded by using Secchi Disc

(KAHLSICO No 281 W A 1088 W AP - 4669) Water turbidity was determined by using

MARTINI instrument (Mi 415)

37 Ex-situ Parameters

371 Five-Day Biochemical Oxygen Demand (BODs)

Water samples at each station was collected by using a Van Dorn water sampler in

triplicates at three depthssub-surface layer (02 m) mid layer (10m) and bottom layer (20

m) They were placed in 1 L of acid washed polyethylene bottles and stored in cooler boxes

before being transported to laboratory for analyses According to APHA (2000) BOD5 test

was done at day 5 Initial DO reading was measured at the sampling site and the water sample

was transferred into 300 ml BOD glass bottle The bottle was wrapped with aluminium foil to

prevent penetration of sunlight and photosynthesis process They were then wrapped with

newspaper to prevent from being broken during transportation The samples were left in a

cooler box for 5 days After 5 days the final DO reading was determined using DO meter

(Sper Scientific 850041) The BOD5 value was determined by using the formula

BOD5 (mglL) = (DO 1 - 005)

where

0 0 1== dissolved oxygen of sample at day 1 (mgL)

DOs == dissolved oxygen after 5 days incubation at 20middotC (mgL)

372 Total Suspended Solids (TSS)

Total suspended analysis was divided into two parts which were pre-fieldtrip sampling

method and post-sampling fieldtrip method For pre-field trip sampling method filter paper

was prepared Glass fibre filter papers (GFIC 47 mm diameter 045 )lm membrane) was

rinsed with di tilled water placed on a piece of aluminium paper and left overnight at 103shy

105 OC in the oven The next day the filter paper that was left to cool in the desiccator before

the initial weight were weighed by using electronic balance For post-field trip sampling

method filtrat iOn process was carried out by usin~ vacuum filtration Water samples at each

station were collected by using a Van Dorn water sampler in triplicates at three depths of subshy

surface layer (02 m) mid layer (10 m) and bottom layer (20 m) A volume of water sample

(shaken well) was poured into the filter funnel Once all of the water has been drained out

filter paper was removed from the filtration funnel and placed into the aluminium foil The

filter paper then was dried in oven at 103-105 degC for 2 hours (APHA 2000) The filter paper

was taken out and allowed to cool before it was weighed again The drying process was

continued until a constant weight was achieved The amount of TSS was determined by using

the fonnula

TSS (mgl) = final weight (mg) - initial weight (mg) volume of water (1000 ml)

373 Cbloropbyll-a analysis

One litre water sample was filtered by using vacuum pump in semi dark room The

filter paper containing chlorophyll-a was analyzed and grounded by using grinder for 5

minutes Then 5 to 6 mL of 90 acetone was added into each sample Samples were

transferred into capped test tube and 90 acetone was added into the test tube to make up the

10 mL volume The test tube then was wrapped with aluminium foil and placed in the

refrigerator at 4 degC for 4 to 18 hours to facilitate the complete extraction of the pigments The

liquid then was transferred into centrifuge tube and placed into centrifuge for 10 minutes

under 3000 rpm The optical density was determined by using spectrophotometer at 750 nm

664 run 647 nrn and 630 nm wavelength Extinction for each of the small turbidity blank was

corrected by subtracting 750 nm from 664nm 647 nm and 630 nm absorptions (APHA

2000) The concentration of chlorophyll-a in the extract after correction was calculated as

below

Chlorophyll-a = 1185 (E664-E750) - 154 (E647-E750) - 008 (E630-E750)

where

E = The ~bsorption in the respective wavelength

Calculation of the chlorophyll-a amount per unit volume is as follow

Chl-a (mgL) = (Ca x v) V

where

Ca =Chlorophyll concentration in lgmL

v = Volume of acetone in mL

V = Volume of sample in mL

Page 19: FISH FAUNA COMPOSITION AND WATER QUALITY AT BATANG … Fauna Composition... · The fisheries production of Batang Ai Hydroelectric Reservoir was estimated to be 1'1.17 kg ha -I :

species were reportedly present in Batang Ai National Park The dominant family IS

Cyprinidae followed by Ballitoridae (Abdullah 2004)

30 Materials and Methods

31 Study Site

This study was conducted at Batang Ai Hydroelectric Reservoir Six stations were

selected for water quality data collection Three stations were at the tributaries of the reservoir

and three stations were at the cage culture area (Figure 1) The coordinates for each station

was recorded using the Global Positioning System (GPS) (Gannin GPSmap 628) (Table 1)

Figure 1 The location of sampling stations at Batang Ai Reservoir Dam Sarawak (Source

Google Earth 2015)

6

Table 1 Coordinates and locations of sampling stations

Station Coordinates Locations

1 N 01 0 14 482 E 1120 02 140 Delok

2 NOlo 13033 E 111 0 58587 Telaus

3 NOlo 11155 E 111 0 52 102 Sungai Bungui

4 N 01 0 09 223 E 111 0 50 291 At the edge of the reservoir

5 NOl o 09 330 E 111 0 50 384 Near Tiang Laju cage culture

6 N 01 0 10 060 E 111 0 54 430 Kerangan Mong

32 Sample Collection

Several types of net that were used for fish collection were gill net with different mesh

sizes (254 cm 508 cm 1016 cm and 127 cm) and three-layered gill net (14 cm 4 cm and

14 cm) Sampling procedures were similar for every station where the nets was left overnight

before being retrieved the next day and habitat description were also noted for every station

(Table 2)

Table 2 Fishing methods and habitat description

Stations Fishing methods Habitat description

Three-layered net gill net

2 Three-layered net gill net

3 Three-layered net gin net

4 Three-layered net gill net

5 Three-layered net gill net

6 Three-layered net gill net

Lowest water level Hill paddy season

already burned near to logging site

At the edge of reservoir

Near to Able Asia cage culture

Greenish water 1200 cage at mouth of

this area

At the edge of reservoir

At the edge of reservoir

At the edge of reservoir

33 Sample Preservation

Fish samples was preserved in the field by using 10 formalin and was left for

approximately 72 hours before the samples were rinsed and soaked in tap water for ten

minutes and transferred into 70 ethanol for further laboratory analysis and preservation

purposes

34 Sample Identification

Fish samples was identified by using the taxonomy keys from Mohsin amp Ambak

(1991) Inger amp Chin (2002) Kottelat et al (1993) and FishBase

(httpfishbaseorgsearchphp) After the sample identification the fish was weighed by

using Shimadzu EDLB300 portable balance The total length and standard length were also

measured by using a ruler The total length is the measurement from the tip of the mouth to

the end of tail while the standard length is the measurement from the tip of the mouth to the

end of fleshy caudal peduncle (Kotelat et al 1993) After the whole process of sample

identification all of the samples were grouped together according to their species Fish

samples were kept in specimen bottles that were labelled with station number coordinates and

date of sampling

35 Stomach Content

Thirty individuals from three dominant species were selected for stomach content

analysis The stomach was weighed by using balance (Shimadzu ELB 300) after was

dissected from the fish The stomach was then preserved in 5 formalin In the laboratory

the stomach was placed in petri dish dissected by using dissecting kit (Gold cross) and the

content was analyzed under stereomicroscope (Olympus SZ51) The content was sorted

according to their type and each type of the food was weighed Other information such as the

empty mass of the stomach volume and length were recorded Stomach content then was

8

analyzed by using Frequency of Occurrence (FO) and Mass Method (MM) FO was used to

calculate the frequent types of food occur in selected species while MM was used to evaluate

the diet composition of each type of species The analysis used the following formula

Frequency of Occurrence

Nf h Dmiddot FOtS I X 100let i =

NfiSh

Mass Method

~~fiSllW 611 IJDiet 112 = x 100 E tlShW

J=l J

36 In-situ Parameters Collection

In-situ physico-chemical water quality parameters such as pH temperature dissolved

oxygen and turbidity was recorded in triplicate at three different depths In additions water

depth and transparency was also recorded ~n triplicate

The depth was recorded by using depth finder (Speedtech Instruments 67505) The pH

was recorded by using pH meter (Eutech Instruments) DO and temperature by using DO

meter (Sper Scientific 850041) and water transparency was recorded by using Secchi Disc

(KAHLSICO No 281 W A 1088 W AP - 4669) Water turbidity was determined by using

MARTINI instrument (Mi 415)

37 Ex-situ Parameters

371 Five-Day Biochemical Oxygen Demand (BODs)

Water samples at each station was collected by using a Van Dorn water sampler in

triplicates at three depthssub-surface layer (02 m) mid layer (10m) and bottom layer (20

m) They were placed in 1 L of acid washed polyethylene bottles and stored in cooler boxes

before being transported to laboratory for analyses According to APHA (2000) BOD5 test

was done at day 5 Initial DO reading was measured at the sampling site and the water sample

was transferred into 300 ml BOD glass bottle The bottle was wrapped with aluminium foil to

prevent penetration of sunlight and photosynthesis process They were then wrapped with

newspaper to prevent from being broken during transportation The samples were left in a

cooler box for 5 days After 5 days the final DO reading was determined using DO meter

(Sper Scientific 850041) The BOD5 value was determined by using the formula

BOD5 (mglL) = (DO 1 - 005)

where

0 0 1== dissolved oxygen of sample at day 1 (mgL)

DOs == dissolved oxygen after 5 days incubation at 20middotC (mgL)

372 Total Suspended Solids (TSS)

Total suspended analysis was divided into two parts which were pre-fieldtrip sampling

method and post-sampling fieldtrip method For pre-field trip sampling method filter paper

was prepared Glass fibre filter papers (GFIC 47 mm diameter 045 )lm membrane) was

rinsed with di tilled water placed on a piece of aluminium paper and left overnight at 103shy

105 OC in the oven The next day the filter paper that was left to cool in the desiccator before

the initial weight were weighed by using electronic balance For post-field trip sampling

method filtrat iOn process was carried out by usin~ vacuum filtration Water samples at each

station were collected by using a Van Dorn water sampler in triplicates at three depths of subshy

surface layer (02 m) mid layer (10 m) and bottom layer (20 m) A volume of water sample

(shaken well) was poured into the filter funnel Once all of the water has been drained out

filter paper was removed from the filtration funnel and placed into the aluminium foil The

filter paper then was dried in oven at 103-105 degC for 2 hours (APHA 2000) The filter paper

was taken out and allowed to cool before it was weighed again The drying process was

continued until a constant weight was achieved The amount of TSS was determined by using

the fonnula

TSS (mgl) = final weight (mg) - initial weight (mg) volume of water (1000 ml)

373 Cbloropbyll-a analysis

One litre water sample was filtered by using vacuum pump in semi dark room The

filter paper containing chlorophyll-a was analyzed and grounded by using grinder for 5

minutes Then 5 to 6 mL of 90 acetone was added into each sample Samples were

transferred into capped test tube and 90 acetone was added into the test tube to make up the

10 mL volume The test tube then was wrapped with aluminium foil and placed in the

refrigerator at 4 degC for 4 to 18 hours to facilitate the complete extraction of the pigments The

liquid then was transferred into centrifuge tube and placed into centrifuge for 10 minutes

under 3000 rpm The optical density was determined by using spectrophotometer at 750 nm

664 run 647 nrn and 630 nm wavelength Extinction for each of the small turbidity blank was

corrected by subtracting 750 nm from 664nm 647 nm and 630 nm absorptions (APHA

2000) The concentration of chlorophyll-a in the extract after correction was calculated as

below

Chlorophyll-a = 1185 (E664-E750) - 154 (E647-E750) - 008 (E630-E750)

where

E = The ~bsorption in the respective wavelength

Calculation of the chlorophyll-a amount per unit volume is as follow

Chl-a (mgL) = (Ca x v) V

where

Ca =Chlorophyll concentration in lgmL

v = Volume of acetone in mL

V = Volume of sample in mL

Page 20: FISH FAUNA COMPOSITION AND WATER QUALITY AT BATANG … Fauna Composition... · The fisheries production of Batang Ai Hydroelectric Reservoir was estimated to be 1'1.17 kg ha -I :

Table 1 Coordinates and locations of sampling stations

Station Coordinates Locations

1 N 01 0 14 482 E 1120 02 140 Delok

2 NOlo 13033 E 111 0 58587 Telaus

3 NOlo 11155 E 111 0 52 102 Sungai Bungui

4 N 01 0 09 223 E 111 0 50 291 At the edge of the reservoir

5 NOl o 09 330 E 111 0 50 384 Near Tiang Laju cage culture

6 N 01 0 10 060 E 111 0 54 430 Kerangan Mong

32 Sample Collection

Several types of net that were used for fish collection were gill net with different mesh

sizes (254 cm 508 cm 1016 cm and 127 cm) and three-layered gill net (14 cm 4 cm and

14 cm) Sampling procedures were similar for every station where the nets was left overnight

before being retrieved the next day and habitat description were also noted for every station

(Table 2)

Table 2 Fishing methods and habitat description

Stations Fishing methods Habitat description

Three-layered net gill net

2 Three-layered net gill net

3 Three-layered net gin net

4 Three-layered net gill net

5 Three-layered net gill net

6 Three-layered net gill net

Lowest water level Hill paddy season

already burned near to logging site

At the edge of reservoir

Near to Able Asia cage culture

Greenish water 1200 cage at mouth of

this area

At the edge of reservoir

At the edge of reservoir

At the edge of reservoir

33 Sample Preservation

Fish samples was preserved in the field by using 10 formalin and was left for

approximately 72 hours before the samples were rinsed and soaked in tap water for ten

minutes and transferred into 70 ethanol for further laboratory analysis and preservation

purposes

34 Sample Identification

Fish samples was identified by using the taxonomy keys from Mohsin amp Ambak

(1991) Inger amp Chin (2002) Kottelat et al (1993) and FishBase

(httpfishbaseorgsearchphp) After the sample identification the fish was weighed by

using Shimadzu EDLB300 portable balance The total length and standard length were also

measured by using a ruler The total length is the measurement from the tip of the mouth to

the end of tail while the standard length is the measurement from the tip of the mouth to the

end of fleshy caudal peduncle (Kotelat et al 1993) After the whole process of sample

identification all of the samples were grouped together according to their species Fish

samples were kept in specimen bottles that were labelled with station number coordinates and

date of sampling

35 Stomach Content

Thirty individuals from three dominant species were selected for stomach content

analysis The stomach was weighed by using balance (Shimadzu ELB 300) after was

dissected from the fish The stomach was then preserved in 5 formalin In the laboratory

the stomach was placed in petri dish dissected by using dissecting kit (Gold cross) and the

content was analyzed under stereomicroscope (Olympus SZ51) The content was sorted

according to their type and each type of the food was weighed Other information such as the

empty mass of the stomach volume and length were recorded Stomach content then was

8

analyzed by using Frequency of Occurrence (FO) and Mass Method (MM) FO was used to

calculate the frequent types of food occur in selected species while MM was used to evaluate

the diet composition of each type of species The analysis used the following formula

Frequency of Occurrence

Nf h Dmiddot FOtS I X 100let i =

NfiSh

Mass Method

~~fiSllW 611 IJDiet 112 = x 100 E tlShW

J=l J

36 In-situ Parameters Collection

In-situ physico-chemical water quality parameters such as pH temperature dissolved

oxygen and turbidity was recorded in triplicate at three different depths In additions water

depth and transparency was also recorded ~n triplicate

The depth was recorded by using depth finder (Speedtech Instruments 67505) The pH

was recorded by using pH meter (Eutech Instruments) DO and temperature by using DO

meter (Sper Scientific 850041) and water transparency was recorded by using Secchi Disc

(KAHLSICO No 281 W A 1088 W AP - 4669) Water turbidity was determined by using

MARTINI instrument (Mi 415)

37 Ex-situ Parameters

371 Five-Day Biochemical Oxygen Demand (BODs)

Water samples at each station was collected by using a Van Dorn water sampler in

triplicates at three depthssub-surface layer (02 m) mid layer (10m) and bottom layer (20

m) They were placed in 1 L of acid washed polyethylene bottles and stored in cooler boxes

before being transported to laboratory for analyses According to APHA (2000) BOD5 test

was done at day 5 Initial DO reading was measured at the sampling site and the water sample

was transferred into 300 ml BOD glass bottle The bottle was wrapped with aluminium foil to

prevent penetration of sunlight and photosynthesis process They were then wrapped with

newspaper to prevent from being broken during transportation The samples were left in a

cooler box for 5 days After 5 days the final DO reading was determined using DO meter

(Sper Scientific 850041) The BOD5 value was determined by using the formula

BOD5 (mglL) = (DO 1 - 005)

where

0 0 1== dissolved oxygen of sample at day 1 (mgL)

DOs == dissolved oxygen after 5 days incubation at 20middotC (mgL)

372 Total Suspended Solids (TSS)

Total suspended analysis was divided into two parts which were pre-fieldtrip sampling

method and post-sampling fieldtrip method For pre-field trip sampling method filter paper

was prepared Glass fibre filter papers (GFIC 47 mm diameter 045 )lm membrane) was

rinsed with di tilled water placed on a piece of aluminium paper and left overnight at 103shy

105 OC in the oven The next day the filter paper that was left to cool in the desiccator before

the initial weight were weighed by using electronic balance For post-field trip sampling

method filtrat iOn process was carried out by usin~ vacuum filtration Water samples at each

station were collected by using a Van Dorn water sampler in triplicates at three depths of subshy

surface layer (02 m) mid layer (10 m) and bottom layer (20 m) A volume of water sample

(shaken well) was poured into the filter funnel Once all of the water has been drained out

filter paper was removed from the filtration funnel and placed into the aluminium foil The

filter paper then was dried in oven at 103-105 degC for 2 hours (APHA 2000) The filter paper

was taken out and allowed to cool before it was weighed again The drying process was

continued until a constant weight was achieved The amount of TSS was determined by using

the fonnula

TSS (mgl) = final weight (mg) - initial weight (mg) volume of water (1000 ml)

373 Cbloropbyll-a analysis

One litre water sample was filtered by using vacuum pump in semi dark room The

filter paper containing chlorophyll-a was analyzed and grounded by using grinder for 5

minutes Then 5 to 6 mL of 90 acetone was added into each sample Samples were

transferred into capped test tube and 90 acetone was added into the test tube to make up the

10 mL volume The test tube then was wrapped with aluminium foil and placed in the

refrigerator at 4 degC for 4 to 18 hours to facilitate the complete extraction of the pigments The

liquid then was transferred into centrifuge tube and placed into centrifuge for 10 minutes

under 3000 rpm The optical density was determined by using spectrophotometer at 750 nm

664 run 647 nrn and 630 nm wavelength Extinction for each of the small turbidity blank was

corrected by subtracting 750 nm from 664nm 647 nm and 630 nm absorptions (APHA

2000) The concentration of chlorophyll-a in the extract after correction was calculated as

below

Chlorophyll-a = 1185 (E664-E750) - 154 (E647-E750) - 008 (E630-E750)

where

E = The ~bsorption in the respective wavelength

Calculation of the chlorophyll-a amount per unit volume is as follow

Chl-a (mgL) = (Ca x v) V

where

Ca =Chlorophyll concentration in lgmL

v = Volume of acetone in mL

V = Volume of sample in mL

Page 21: FISH FAUNA COMPOSITION AND WATER QUALITY AT BATANG … Fauna Composition... · The fisheries production of Batang Ai Hydroelectric Reservoir was estimated to be 1'1.17 kg ha -I :

33 Sample Preservation

Fish samples was preserved in the field by using 10 formalin and was left for

approximately 72 hours before the samples were rinsed and soaked in tap water for ten

minutes and transferred into 70 ethanol for further laboratory analysis and preservation

purposes

34 Sample Identification

Fish samples was identified by using the taxonomy keys from Mohsin amp Ambak

(1991) Inger amp Chin (2002) Kottelat et al (1993) and FishBase

(httpfishbaseorgsearchphp) After the sample identification the fish was weighed by

using Shimadzu EDLB300 portable balance The total length and standard length were also

measured by using a ruler The total length is the measurement from the tip of the mouth to

the end of tail while the standard length is the measurement from the tip of the mouth to the

end of fleshy caudal peduncle (Kotelat et al 1993) After the whole process of sample

identification all of the samples were grouped together according to their species Fish

samples were kept in specimen bottles that were labelled with station number coordinates and

date of sampling

35 Stomach Content

Thirty individuals from three dominant species were selected for stomach content

analysis The stomach was weighed by using balance (Shimadzu ELB 300) after was

dissected from the fish The stomach was then preserved in 5 formalin In the laboratory

the stomach was placed in petri dish dissected by using dissecting kit (Gold cross) and the

content was analyzed under stereomicroscope (Olympus SZ51) The content was sorted

according to their type and each type of the food was weighed Other information such as the

empty mass of the stomach volume and length were recorded Stomach content then was

8

analyzed by using Frequency of Occurrence (FO) and Mass Method (MM) FO was used to

calculate the frequent types of food occur in selected species while MM was used to evaluate

the diet composition of each type of species The analysis used the following formula

Frequency of Occurrence

Nf h Dmiddot FOtS I X 100let i =

NfiSh

Mass Method

~~fiSllW 611 IJDiet 112 = x 100 E tlShW

J=l J

36 In-situ Parameters Collection

In-situ physico-chemical water quality parameters such as pH temperature dissolved

oxygen and turbidity was recorded in triplicate at three different depths In additions water

depth and transparency was also recorded ~n triplicate

The depth was recorded by using depth finder (Speedtech Instruments 67505) The pH

was recorded by using pH meter (Eutech Instruments) DO and temperature by using DO

meter (Sper Scientific 850041) and water transparency was recorded by using Secchi Disc

(KAHLSICO No 281 W A 1088 W AP - 4669) Water turbidity was determined by using

MARTINI instrument (Mi 415)

37 Ex-situ Parameters

371 Five-Day Biochemical Oxygen Demand (BODs)

Water samples at each station was collected by using a Van Dorn water sampler in

triplicates at three depthssub-surface layer (02 m) mid layer (10m) and bottom layer (20

m) They were placed in 1 L of acid washed polyethylene bottles and stored in cooler boxes

before being transported to laboratory for analyses According to APHA (2000) BOD5 test

was done at day 5 Initial DO reading was measured at the sampling site and the water sample

was transferred into 300 ml BOD glass bottle The bottle was wrapped with aluminium foil to

prevent penetration of sunlight and photosynthesis process They were then wrapped with

newspaper to prevent from being broken during transportation The samples were left in a

cooler box for 5 days After 5 days the final DO reading was determined using DO meter

(Sper Scientific 850041) The BOD5 value was determined by using the formula

BOD5 (mglL) = (DO 1 - 005)

where

0 0 1== dissolved oxygen of sample at day 1 (mgL)

DOs == dissolved oxygen after 5 days incubation at 20middotC (mgL)

372 Total Suspended Solids (TSS)

Total suspended analysis was divided into two parts which were pre-fieldtrip sampling

method and post-sampling fieldtrip method For pre-field trip sampling method filter paper

was prepared Glass fibre filter papers (GFIC 47 mm diameter 045 )lm membrane) was

rinsed with di tilled water placed on a piece of aluminium paper and left overnight at 103shy

105 OC in the oven The next day the filter paper that was left to cool in the desiccator before

the initial weight were weighed by using electronic balance For post-field trip sampling

method filtrat iOn process was carried out by usin~ vacuum filtration Water samples at each

station were collected by using a Van Dorn water sampler in triplicates at three depths of subshy

surface layer (02 m) mid layer (10 m) and bottom layer (20 m) A volume of water sample

(shaken well) was poured into the filter funnel Once all of the water has been drained out

filter paper was removed from the filtration funnel and placed into the aluminium foil The

filter paper then was dried in oven at 103-105 degC for 2 hours (APHA 2000) The filter paper

was taken out and allowed to cool before it was weighed again The drying process was

continued until a constant weight was achieved The amount of TSS was determined by using

the fonnula

TSS (mgl) = final weight (mg) - initial weight (mg) volume of water (1000 ml)

373 Cbloropbyll-a analysis

One litre water sample was filtered by using vacuum pump in semi dark room The

filter paper containing chlorophyll-a was analyzed and grounded by using grinder for 5

minutes Then 5 to 6 mL of 90 acetone was added into each sample Samples were

transferred into capped test tube and 90 acetone was added into the test tube to make up the

10 mL volume The test tube then was wrapped with aluminium foil and placed in the

refrigerator at 4 degC for 4 to 18 hours to facilitate the complete extraction of the pigments The

liquid then was transferred into centrifuge tube and placed into centrifuge for 10 minutes

under 3000 rpm The optical density was determined by using spectrophotometer at 750 nm

664 run 647 nrn and 630 nm wavelength Extinction for each of the small turbidity blank was

corrected by subtracting 750 nm from 664nm 647 nm and 630 nm absorptions (APHA

2000) The concentration of chlorophyll-a in the extract after correction was calculated as

below

Chlorophyll-a = 1185 (E664-E750) - 154 (E647-E750) - 008 (E630-E750)

where

E = The ~bsorption in the respective wavelength

Calculation of the chlorophyll-a amount per unit volume is as follow

Chl-a (mgL) = (Ca x v) V

where

Ca =Chlorophyll concentration in lgmL

v = Volume of acetone in mL

V = Volume of sample in mL

Page 22: FISH FAUNA COMPOSITION AND WATER QUALITY AT BATANG … Fauna Composition... · The fisheries production of Batang Ai Hydroelectric Reservoir was estimated to be 1'1.17 kg ha -I :

analyzed by using Frequency of Occurrence (FO) and Mass Method (MM) FO was used to

calculate the frequent types of food occur in selected species while MM was used to evaluate

the diet composition of each type of species The analysis used the following formula

Frequency of Occurrence

Nf h Dmiddot FOtS I X 100let i =

NfiSh

Mass Method

~~fiSllW 611 IJDiet 112 = x 100 E tlShW

J=l J

36 In-situ Parameters Collection

In-situ physico-chemical water quality parameters such as pH temperature dissolved

oxygen and turbidity was recorded in triplicate at three different depths In additions water

depth and transparency was also recorded ~n triplicate

The depth was recorded by using depth finder (Speedtech Instruments 67505) The pH

was recorded by using pH meter (Eutech Instruments) DO and temperature by using DO

meter (Sper Scientific 850041) and water transparency was recorded by using Secchi Disc

(KAHLSICO No 281 W A 1088 W AP - 4669) Water turbidity was determined by using

MARTINI instrument (Mi 415)

37 Ex-situ Parameters

371 Five-Day Biochemical Oxygen Demand (BODs)

Water samples at each station was collected by using a Van Dorn water sampler in

triplicates at three depthssub-surface layer (02 m) mid layer (10m) and bottom layer (20

m) They were placed in 1 L of acid washed polyethylene bottles and stored in cooler boxes

before being transported to laboratory for analyses According to APHA (2000) BOD5 test

was done at day 5 Initial DO reading was measured at the sampling site and the water sample

was transferred into 300 ml BOD glass bottle The bottle was wrapped with aluminium foil to

prevent penetration of sunlight and photosynthesis process They were then wrapped with

newspaper to prevent from being broken during transportation The samples were left in a

cooler box for 5 days After 5 days the final DO reading was determined using DO meter

(Sper Scientific 850041) The BOD5 value was determined by using the formula

BOD5 (mglL) = (DO 1 - 005)

where

0 0 1== dissolved oxygen of sample at day 1 (mgL)

DOs == dissolved oxygen after 5 days incubation at 20middotC (mgL)

372 Total Suspended Solids (TSS)

Total suspended analysis was divided into two parts which were pre-fieldtrip sampling

method and post-sampling fieldtrip method For pre-field trip sampling method filter paper

was prepared Glass fibre filter papers (GFIC 47 mm diameter 045 )lm membrane) was

rinsed with di tilled water placed on a piece of aluminium paper and left overnight at 103shy

105 OC in the oven The next day the filter paper that was left to cool in the desiccator before

the initial weight were weighed by using electronic balance For post-field trip sampling

method filtrat iOn process was carried out by usin~ vacuum filtration Water samples at each

station were collected by using a Van Dorn water sampler in triplicates at three depths of subshy

surface layer (02 m) mid layer (10 m) and bottom layer (20 m) A volume of water sample

(shaken well) was poured into the filter funnel Once all of the water has been drained out

filter paper was removed from the filtration funnel and placed into the aluminium foil The

filter paper then was dried in oven at 103-105 degC for 2 hours (APHA 2000) The filter paper

was taken out and allowed to cool before it was weighed again The drying process was

continued until a constant weight was achieved The amount of TSS was determined by using

the fonnula

TSS (mgl) = final weight (mg) - initial weight (mg) volume of water (1000 ml)

373 Cbloropbyll-a analysis

One litre water sample was filtered by using vacuum pump in semi dark room The

filter paper containing chlorophyll-a was analyzed and grounded by using grinder for 5

minutes Then 5 to 6 mL of 90 acetone was added into each sample Samples were

transferred into capped test tube and 90 acetone was added into the test tube to make up the

10 mL volume The test tube then was wrapped with aluminium foil and placed in the

refrigerator at 4 degC for 4 to 18 hours to facilitate the complete extraction of the pigments The

liquid then was transferred into centrifuge tube and placed into centrifuge for 10 minutes

under 3000 rpm The optical density was determined by using spectrophotometer at 750 nm

664 run 647 nrn and 630 nm wavelength Extinction for each of the small turbidity blank was

corrected by subtracting 750 nm from 664nm 647 nm and 630 nm absorptions (APHA

2000) The concentration of chlorophyll-a in the extract after correction was calculated as

below

Chlorophyll-a = 1185 (E664-E750) - 154 (E647-E750) - 008 (E630-E750)

where

E = The ~bsorption in the respective wavelength

Calculation of the chlorophyll-a amount per unit volume is as follow

Chl-a (mgL) = (Ca x v) V

where

Ca =Chlorophyll concentration in lgmL

v = Volume of acetone in mL

V = Volume of sample in mL

Page 23: FISH FAUNA COMPOSITION AND WATER QUALITY AT BATANG … Fauna Composition... · The fisheries production of Batang Ai Hydroelectric Reservoir was estimated to be 1'1.17 kg ha -I :

was done at day 5 Initial DO reading was measured at the sampling site and the water sample

was transferred into 300 ml BOD glass bottle The bottle was wrapped with aluminium foil to

prevent penetration of sunlight and photosynthesis process They were then wrapped with

newspaper to prevent from being broken during transportation The samples were left in a

cooler box for 5 days After 5 days the final DO reading was determined using DO meter

(Sper Scientific 850041) The BOD5 value was determined by using the formula

BOD5 (mglL) = (DO 1 - 005)

where

0 0 1== dissolved oxygen of sample at day 1 (mgL)

DOs == dissolved oxygen after 5 days incubation at 20middotC (mgL)

372 Total Suspended Solids (TSS)

Total suspended analysis was divided into two parts which were pre-fieldtrip sampling

method and post-sampling fieldtrip method For pre-field trip sampling method filter paper

was prepared Glass fibre filter papers (GFIC 47 mm diameter 045 )lm membrane) was

rinsed with di tilled water placed on a piece of aluminium paper and left overnight at 103shy

105 OC in the oven The next day the filter paper that was left to cool in the desiccator before

the initial weight were weighed by using electronic balance For post-field trip sampling

method filtrat iOn process was carried out by usin~ vacuum filtration Water samples at each

station were collected by using a Van Dorn water sampler in triplicates at three depths of subshy

surface layer (02 m) mid layer (10 m) and bottom layer (20 m) A volume of water sample

(shaken well) was poured into the filter funnel Once all of the water has been drained out

filter paper was removed from the filtration funnel and placed into the aluminium foil The

filter paper then was dried in oven at 103-105 degC for 2 hours (APHA 2000) The filter paper

was taken out and allowed to cool before it was weighed again The drying process was

continued until a constant weight was achieved The amount of TSS was determined by using

the fonnula

TSS (mgl) = final weight (mg) - initial weight (mg) volume of water (1000 ml)

373 Cbloropbyll-a analysis

One litre water sample was filtered by using vacuum pump in semi dark room The

filter paper containing chlorophyll-a was analyzed and grounded by using grinder for 5

minutes Then 5 to 6 mL of 90 acetone was added into each sample Samples were

transferred into capped test tube and 90 acetone was added into the test tube to make up the

10 mL volume The test tube then was wrapped with aluminium foil and placed in the

refrigerator at 4 degC for 4 to 18 hours to facilitate the complete extraction of the pigments The

liquid then was transferred into centrifuge tube and placed into centrifuge for 10 minutes

under 3000 rpm The optical density was determined by using spectrophotometer at 750 nm

664 run 647 nrn and 630 nm wavelength Extinction for each of the small turbidity blank was

corrected by subtracting 750 nm from 664nm 647 nm and 630 nm absorptions (APHA

2000) The concentration of chlorophyll-a in the extract after correction was calculated as

below

Chlorophyll-a = 1185 (E664-E750) - 154 (E647-E750) - 008 (E630-E750)

where

E = The ~bsorption in the respective wavelength

Calculation of the chlorophyll-a amount per unit volume is as follow

Chl-a (mgL) = (Ca x v) V

where

Ca =Chlorophyll concentration in lgmL

v = Volume of acetone in mL

V = Volume of sample in mL

Page 24: FISH FAUNA COMPOSITION AND WATER QUALITY AT BATANG … Fauna Composition... · The fisheries production of Batang Ai Hydroelectric Reservoir was estimated to be 1'1.17 kg ha -I :

continued until a constant weight was achieved The amount of TSS was determined by using

the fonnula

TSS (mgl) = final weight (mg) - initial weight (mg) volume of water (1000 ml)

373 Cbloropbyll-a analysis

One litre water sample was filtered by using vacuum pump in semi dark room The

filter paper containing chlorophyll-a was analyzed and grounded by using grinder for 5

minutes Then 5 to 6 mL of 90 acetone was added into each sample Samples were

transferred into capped test tube and 90 acetone was added into the test tube to make up the

10 mL volume The test tube then was wrapped with aluminium foil and placed in the

refrigerator at 4 degC for 4 to 18 hours to facilitate the complete extraction of the pigments The

liquid then was transferred into centrifuge tube and placed into centrifuge for 10 minutes

under 3000 rpm The optical density was determined by using spectrophotometer at 750 nm

664 run 647 nrn and 630 nm wavelength Extinction for each of the small turbidity blank was

corrected by subtracting 750 nm from 664nm 647 nm and 630 nm absorptions (APHA

2000) The concentration of chlorophyll-a in the extract after correction was calculated as

below

Chlorophyll-a = 1185 (E664-E750) - 154 (E647-E750) - 008 (E630-E750)

where

E = The ~bsorption in the respective wavelength

Calculation of the chlorophyll-a amount per unit volume is as follow

Chl-a (mgL) = (Ca x v) V

where

Ca =Chlorophyll concentration in lgmL

v = Volume of acetone in mL

V = Volume of sample in mL