Assessment of Macro-Invertebrates of Gubi and Waya Dams in Bauchi State, Nigeria

Abstract

This study assessed the diversity, abundance, and composition of macro-invertebrates in the Gubi and Waya Dams in Bauchi State. Macro-invertebrates were collected fortnightly from different locations in the upper and lower parts of the dams using a D-frame net with a mesh size of 250 µm. Samples were preserved in 10% formaldehyde and identified. In Gubi Dam, 62 individual macro-invertebrates belonging to 7 orders and 9 families were identified, while Waya Dam had 108 individuals from 8 orders and 10 families. Both dams had Coleoptera with three families, followed by Odonata with two families, and other orders with one family each. In Gubi Dam, the most abundant macro-invertebrates were Psephenus spp. (24.1%), Paragomphus genei (17.74%), and Phaon camerunensis (16.13%). In Waya Dam, Paragomphus genei (29.63%) and Phaon camerunensis (25.93%) were the most abundant. Gubi Dam had a Shannon-Wiener index of 2.00, a Margalef’s index of 1.99, Pielou’s evenness index of 0.91, and a Simpson’s index of 0.86. Waya Dam had a Shannon-Wiener index of 1.88, a Margalef’s index of 1.92, an evenness index of 0.82, and a Simpson’s index of 0.81. The study concluded that both dams provide stable and moderate aquatic environments for the growth and survival of macro-invertebrates as well as other aquatic organisms. Continuous monitoring of the water bodies, especially Waya Dam, using water indices and pollution indicator macro-invertebrates to obtain vital information on ecological status is recommended.