Current Status of Invasive Prussian Carp, Carassius gibelio (Bloch, 1782) in Seyhan Basin and Its Potential Effects on Basin Ecosystem

Abstract

The altitude of Seyhan River Basin is between 0 and 3687 meters and its mean height is 1296.2 meters. The total length of the river is 485 km. The source of Seyhan River is on Tahtali Mountains and it flows to the Mediterranean passing through Taurus Mountains. There four reservoir dams on Seyhan River and its important springs. There are no fish-passes on any of the reservoirs. Prussian carp, C. gibelio which is an invasive freshwater fish was reported from Gala Lake in 1988 from Turkey. It can become dominant in calm and non-rapid waters and disrupt nutrient flow. Prussian carp was reported from Seyhan Basin in 2006. During the interviews conduct by local fishermen, it was determined that the species more common on lowlands of the basin when compared to higher areas. It is thought to be a result of many drainage canals connected to the main river which carry nutrients by surface non-point flows and agricultural irrigation. Also lowlands of the basin have warmer water temperatures which provide optimal conditions for breeding/development. The lack of fish-passes between reservoirs and main river body also bock introduction of the species to upper basin. The long and short term effects of Prussian Carp on similar ecosystems were classified as; Effects on Habitats, Effects on fish fauna, Genetic effects, spreading of parasites and pathogens. Convention on Biodiversity which our country is a party since 1992 defines invasive alien species (IAS) as; “species whose introduction and/or spread outside their natural past or present distribution threatens biological diversity”. Carassius gibelio (Bloch, 1782) which was reported as the most risky invasive freshwater fish of Turkey must be taken in consideration within Articles of Convention of Biodiversity. In this study current status of invasive Prussian Carp in Seyhan River Basin was defined and the potential effects of the species on Seyhan River Basin aquatic ecosystem was determined by literature review.

Keywords: Prussian Carp, Carassius gibelio, Seyhan River Basin, Convention on Biodiversity