BIOMETRIC RELATIONSHIP, FOOD AND FEEDING HABIT OF Heterotis niloticus (Cuvier, 1829) AND Labeo coubie (Ruppell, 1832) FROM LOWER RIVER BENUE

Abstract

This study investigated the length-weight relationship as well as feeding habit of two important commercial fish species from lower River Benue namely Heterotis niloticus and Labeo coubie. Fish samples were collected between November 2014 and January 2015 every fortnight for the recording of relevant data (length, weight and stomach content). The result obtained reveals significantly higher biometric parameters in H. niloticus compared to L. coubie. Many biometric parameters measured correlated significantly with the gut characteristics. The length-weight relationship revealed negative allometric growth for both species. However, sampled fishes were in good condition at the time of the study. Food item isolated in both species revealed an omnivorous feeding habit, hence these fish species may be considered as potential candidates for aquaculture.

Keywords

• African bonytongue,African carp,Riv-er Benue,Length-weight relationship,Feeding habit

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