Trophic Structure of the Fish Community in the Samandeni Reservoir—Burkina Faso

Abstract

From November 2020 to August 2022, the diet of 12 fish species from the Samandeni reservoir was examined in order to describe the diet and the trophic level of each of them. The analysis of this vital function allows a better knowledge of the concerned ecosystem and gives opportunity for its better management. The fish were sampled with gill nets and cast net. A total of 213 stomach contents of individuals belonging to 12 species grouped in 7 families and 10 genera were analysed. Results showed low to medium vacuity coefficients. The preys were mainly composed of fish, insects, detritus, zooplankton and phytoplankton. Variability in the use of resources by individuals was evident. Thus, the 12 species were classified as fish-eating predators, granivorous, zooplanktivorous, insectivorous and filter-feeding microphages. Then, the fish trophic structure of the Samandeni reservoir was elaborated.