Ichthyofaunal diversity and biological resilience of air-breathing fishes in the agrochemical-stressed "chaurs" of bihar

The " Chaurs" of the Munger district serve as a critical habitat for a variety of indigenous fish species, particularly air-breathing teleosts that are highly valued in the local economy. This study provides a comprehensive documentation of the ichthyofaunal diversity in the Chaurs of Haveli Kharagpur and evaluates the biological resilience of three dominant species—Channa punctatus, Anabas testudineus, and Clarias batrachus—against seasonal environmental stressors and agrochemical runoff. Morphological and physiological observations were correlated with water quality data over a two-year cycle (2018–2020). Despite the presence of biochemical pollutants from agricultural discharge, these species exhibit remarkable adaptive mechanisms. The study highlights the importance of these wetlands as conservation units for native germplasm and suggests strategies for sustainable harvest management.