EFFECT OF INTRODUCED NON-NATIVE FISH SPECIES ON ECOSYSTEM SERVICES ON
LAKE KARIBA FISHERY
Abstract
The purpose of the study was to assess the effect of introducing
non-native fish species (Limnothrissa miodon, Oreochromis niloticus and
Cherax quadricarinatus) have on ecosystem services of the Lake Kariba
fishery. Three hundred and seventy-seven (377) respondents were picked
randomly from the 3 strata (I, II and IV) of the lake and were
interviewed using a questionnaire. Focus Group Discussion (FGD) and
interviews with headmen/women, experts, government leaders and
processors/exporters were also done to strengthen and validate the
results. Analysis of data was done by cross-tabulation using chi-square
analysis using SPSS version 16. Microsoft Excel was used to produce
outputs, which was done based on defined themes. Responses from FGD and
key informants were analyzed using classical content analysis. The study
revealed that although there has been an ecological impact on the Lake
Kariba fishery, introduced non-native species have had a positive effect
on ecosystem services through improved peoples’ livelihoods brought
about by improved household food security, improved nutrition,
employment creation and overall contribution to the Gross Domestic
Product (GDP) of the country. Around 59.42% of the respondents showed
an affirmative response that introduced non-native fish species have a
positive response on their lives. It’s therefore concluded that despite
the ecological effects, introduced species have a positive effect on
livelihoods through improved food security, employment creation, income
generation and overall contribution to Zambia’s GDP. Keywords:
Non-native species, Ecosystem services, Oreochromis niloticus,
Limnothrissa miodon, Cherax quadricarinatus, Ecosystem, Lake Kariba.