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

Year 2017, Volume: 3 Issue: 1, 19 - 27, 02.01.2017

Shola Gabriel Solomon Victor Tosin Okomoda , Sylvia Achodo

https://doi.org/10.3153/JAEFR17004

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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