Preparation of an illustrated guide with the ichthyofauna of Itapecerica River, Divinópolis, State of Minas Gerais, Brazil

education and environmental awareness

Abstract

Itapecerica is an important river located in the Midwest region of Minas Gerais’ State, Brazil, and suffers from several anthropogenic impacts, such as pollution and the introduction of exotic species. Therefore, environmental education and awareness actions are necessary for valorization and preservation of this ecosystem and the species of fish that inhabit it. Thus, we have prepared an illustrated guide on Itapecerica River’s ichthyofauna to be used as a support material for highschool classes. Each fish species cataloged and described in the literature was characterized regarding feeding, reproductive, morphological and ecological aspects. The guide provides a brief description of 29 fish species of the Itapecerica River and the state amateur fishing regulations. The guide was used as a base material for lectures in November 2019 to 330 highschool students from a public school in the city of Divinópolis, State of Minas Gerais, Brazil. We observed that the guide allowed students to broaden their knowledge of ichthyology, such as the importance of fish preservation, the distinction of species, and their role in the ecosystem. Also, it provided a closer relationship between students and nature and contributed to some demands of the educational area.