Morphological and Molecular Characterization of Fish Fauna (Cyprinidae) from Sukkur Barrage, Sindh, Pakistan: PhD Open Defense Held at SALU Khairpur.
Morphological and Molecular Characterization of Fish Fauna (Cyprinidae) from Sukkur Barrage, Sindh, Pakistan: PhD Open Defense Held at SALU Khairpur.
KHAIRPUR:
Nov 2, 2026 Press Release
A PhD Open Defense was held at the Department of Zoology, Shah Abdul Latif University (SALU), Khairpur. The session was presided over by the Vice Chancellor of SALU Khairpur, Meritorious Professor Dr Yousuf Khushk.
During the defense, Research Scholar Sajida Memon department of Zoology presented her doctoral thesis titled “Morphological and Molecular Characterization of Fish Fauna (Cyprinidae) from Sukkur Barrage, Sindh, Pakistan.”
The scholar highlighted that the study analyzed the Length-Weight Relationship (LWR) and condition factor of the collected species using SPSS software. Molecular analysis of species including Labeo catla, Labeo rohita, Cyprinus carpio and Osteobrama cotio showed close phylogenetic associations with previously reported species from India and China.
The research was conducted at the River Indus Sukkur Barrage to determine the taxonomic status of the Cyprinidae family using morphological characteristics and phylogenetic analysis via the CO1 gene. Over 1,500 fish specimens were collected from five different stations between September 2023 and March 2024 using various nets with the help of local fishermen. Of these, 1,068 specimens were identified as Cyprinids, categorized into seven genera and ten species.
Presiding over the event, Vice Chancellor Dr Yousuf Khushk appreciated scholar Sajida Memon on the successful completion of her research. He emphasized the importance of molecular and morphological studies in understanding local biodiversity and the ecological conservation of fish fauna in Sindh. He also encouraged young researchers to focus on applied research that addresses environmental and agricultural challenges.
Speaking on the occasion, Dr Khushk said, “A river is not merely a body of water; it is an economy and a heritage. This research will benefit the economy of Sindh and the country.” He appreciated the scholar and declared the defense successful. He also called for greater efforts to promote quality research and appreciated the experts for their patronage of SALU and their support to students. In addition, he shared his experience of a successful visit to the EU and highlighted how research is conducted there.
Dean Professor Dr Mushtaque Ali Jakhrani graced the event. The research was conducted under the supervision of Supervisor Dr Khadim Hussain Memon and Co-Supervisor Dr Waheed Ali Panhwar, along with faculty members and students of the Zoology Department.
Experts included Dean Professor Dr Manan Shaikh and Dr Khalid Hussain Rind. Acting Chairman of the Department of Zoology Dr Fakhra Soomro, Dr Amir Mallah, Dr Sham Lal, Dr Zaib-un-Nisa, Dr Hakim Sahito, Dr Sajjad Larik, Dr Sahib Oad, Dr Faheem Jatoi and Waseem Kalhoro were also present.
Media Section
Shah Abdul Latif University, Khairpur