Feeding ecology of the endangered indigenous ornamental fish Botia striata (Rao, 1920) in the Koyna River, Western Ghats, India

Aim: This study examines the feeding ecology and trophic biology of endangered ornamental fish Botia striata in the Koyna River, Western Ghats, India. The objective was to quantify diet composition, feeding intensity, and somatic indices to elucidate ecological adaptability and inform conservation, sustainable trade, and captive breeding strategies. Methodology: A total of 360 specimens were collected monthly from August 2023 to July 2024. Morphometric measurements were taken, followed by gut content analysis using frequency of occurrence, volumetric, and preponderance index methods. Feeding intensity was assessed through fullness and emptiness indices, while nutritional and reproductive status were evaluated using VSI, GaSI, HSI, GSI, and RGL. Results: Feeding intensity varied seasonally, with empty guts (23.83%) and full guts (19.44%) predominating. Diet comprised aquatic plants/detritus, diatoms, green and blue-green algae, cladocerans, copepods, insect larvae, molluscs, and other zooplankton. Volume-wise, cladocerans (28.22%) and copepods (22.32%) dominated. The preponderance index identified cladocerans as the principal food item. The mean somatic indices indicated balanced energy storage and reproductive condition. Interpretation: B. striata is a carni-omnivorous generalist, exhibiting trophic plasticity and seasonal feeding variation linked to reproduction and environmental factors. The findings support its ecological resilience and provide a baseline for conservation planning, habitat management, and aquaculture development. Key words: Botia striata, Conservation, Feeding ecology, Ornamental fish, Western Ghats