CONCLUSIONS
Aquatic biodiversity surveys are increasingly adopting fast and
nondestructive eDNA methods. This study aimed to demonstrate the
diversity and endemicity of fish in the Chishui River by identifying 77
fish species at 52 sites. Fish assemblages in the river displayed
significant variation along its longitudinal gradient, with notable
differences between the upstream and downstream areas. The driving
factors behind this phenomenon were analyzed, indicating that the flow
rate and altitude were the most significant environmental factors. In
contrast, human factors did not significantly influence the distribution
of fish species. Overall, this study highlights the feasibility of using
eDNA methods to investigate the Chishui River Basin and provides
valuable reference data for the management and protection of fish
resources in the upper reaches of the Yangtze River.