Analysis of macroinvertebrate diversity and crayfish presence in the Sanyati basin, Lake Kariba · Electronic Theses and Dissertations

Author: Mhlanga, Maria S.
Title: Analysis of macroinvertebrate diversity and crayfish presence in the Sanyati basin, Lake Kariba
Abstract: Macroinvertebrates and crayfish of Lake Kariba were examined in the Sanyati Basin. The objectives of the study were to assess the diversity and composition of macroinvertebrates, to assess the crayfish abundance, and to assess water quality status in the Sanyati Basin. A kick net was used to collect macro-invertebrates and was then preserved in 70% alcohol for laboratory identification. Hanna HI 9829 multi-parameter was used to measure pH, temperature, conductivity, total dissolved solids and dissolved oxygen in situ. Water transparency was measured using a Secchi disk. Crayfish were sampled using opera house trap nets. Four traps were placed at each site and laid at each site in late afternoon, then later removed the following morning. The bait used was maize meal paste. A total of 1873 individual macro-invertebrate that belonged to six orders and 20 families were recorded. Forty-one crayfish were recorded from 5 sampling sites. Males were heavier and longer (mean weight = 0.069 kg and mean length = 134.4 mm) than the females (mean weight = 0.047 kg and mean length = 128.6 mm). The study showed variations in macroinvertebrate diversity, crayfish abundance and water quality across the sampling sites. It is recommended to expand the study so that it covers the entire lake, and to assess water quality at several depths of the water column.
Date: June 2025
Publisher: BUSE
Keywords: Crayfish; Macroinvertebrate diversity
Supervisor: Mr. W. Mhlanga

Item sets: Department of Natural Resources

Media: Mhang - NRM.pdf