Reproduction of Barbel in Dam Lake, Turkey

Abstract

The subspecies of Barbel Barbus plebejus ercisianus was first identified by Karaman (1971). The most important characteristics features of this subspecies from other subspecies are less developed bony rays of the dorsal fin, short gill spines, color, long pectoral fins, and the less developed mid lobe of the lower lip (Karaman loc. cit). Koqkopru Dam Lake (KDL) is in Turkey's East Anatolian region, within the Lake Van basin. The dam was constructed on the Zilan River for irrigation and electricity, while commercial fishing is also practiced. Estimated surface area of the lake is 6.15 km(2), its storage capacity is 86 W, its depth 48.5 m and altitude is 1778.5 m at maximum water level. The dam lake is fed by the Zilan River, Ilica, Komorcu and Kunduk streams, and by precipitation. The aim of this study was to determine reproduction biology of the species in a new constructed habitat and use this knowledge to conserve and manage the population.