Biometric indices of Pseudotolithus elongatus (Bowdich, 1825) from the coastal waters of Rivers State, Nigeria

Ferrante L, Duczmal L, Philip RU and Aiyeloja JO

Published on: 2023-10-27

Abstract

Length-weight relationships (LWRs), length-length relationships (LLRs), and condition factor of Pseudotolithus elongatus from the coastal waters of Rivers State, Nigeria, were studied. Specimens were collected from the catches of fishermen using various fishing gear. The dominant length ranged from 20 to 26 cm, with a mean length of 22.65±3.06cm. The monthly length-weight relationship was estimated separately for male and female, with the b values indicating positive allometric growth (b > 3.00) in November, January, and February for both male and female. The females experienced negative allometric growth (b < 3.00) in December, March, and April, while the males exhibited a negative allometric growth pattern in April. The combined b value of LWRs (TL vs. BW) indicates positive allometric growth, and SL vs. BW indicates negative allometric growth. Also, the b value of LLR (TL vs. SL) indicates negative allometric growth. The condition factors varied for both sexes, ranging from 0.35 to 1.2 in males and 0.57 to 1.14 in females, while the combined condition factor ranged from 0.35 to 1.2. The present findings will provide useful information for a well-organised and significant exploitation and regulation of Sciaenid species following the aftermath of massive fish kills and continuous exploitation of fish species in the study area.