Distribution Areas of Squalius Genus in Turkey

Abstract

Cyprinids are most important freshwater species which are rich vertebrate family diversity. The classification of  Leuciscinae, (which is subfamily of Cyprinids) requires knowledge of biological properties and their relationship to environmental factors. Some of the species belonging to this genus have been classified under the genus Squalius. Its distribution areas are very widespread from Europe, North and West Asia, North America, Azov, Black Sea, Hazar Sea regions. Some species of Squalius have been reported from Dicle, Euphrates, Kesik, Asi and Beyşehir drainages. Very few populations in Anatolia and nearby basins have been studied with sufficient detail. There are some species identified from Anatolia later became synonymous with Squalius cephalus and and some of these species are thought to have spread all over Europe. There are many rivers, lakes and dam lake in Anatolia.  They usually live in slow current waters. This study was carried out the distribution areas of the Squalius from species and subspecies of the Cyprinidae family.

The distribution of regional freshwater Squalius in our country has been examined. In this study, literature survey method was used. 

In this study living areas of Squalius species, and distribution areas and other biological studies have been prepared with the thought that it is a reference. It is reported that Squalius genus is found in many parts of dam lakes and reservoirs our country such as central and western Anatolia, Mediterranean, Marmara, southeastern and eastern Anatolia.