Research on Indigenous Fish Species in Lao PDR: A Review of Investigations into Aquaculture Development, Fisheries Management and Conservation

A rich diversity of indigenous fish is present on the Indochinese Peninsula, particularly in the Mekong Basin. Since the 20th century, a number of alien fishes have been introduced into the region primarily for the development of aquaculture, and there is increasing concern regarding the potential for loss of regional biodiversity and for a decline in the stock of indigenous fishes. Consequently, efficient utilization of indigenous fishes for aquaculture is desirable. Therefore, biological surveys are required to support their conservation. This article reviews research carried out by the author in Lao PDR into the early morphological development and biology of several indigenous fish species in relation to aquaculture development, fisheries management and species conservation.