Author(s): M Moslen and CA Miebaka

Abstract: Study aim was to assess length-weight relationship-LWR and condition factor of crabs (Callinectes sp) and shrimps (Penaeus sp) from upper the Bonny estuary. Seven samples of each specimen were collected monthly between January-December 2015 making total of 168 samples. Samples were immediately moved in coolers to the laboratory for length-weight measurements and further evaluations. Regression coefficient (b-value) ranged from 0.215-2.96 indicating negative allometry for all crabs and 0.67-3.13 indicating negative and positive allometric growth for shrimps. Coefficient of determination (R²) showed both weak and strong LWR while condition factor (CF) values were 1.03-1.32 for shrimps and 1.01-2.09 for crabs. The condition of the crabs were generally better compared to the shrimps with significant difference (p<0.05) between the two variables. In conclusion crabs and shrimps exhibited negative/positive allometry and good condition but observed weak relationships indicated by R² values may suggest presence/introduction of environmental stress factors and perturbations in the study area.

Pages: 188-194  |  816 Views  103 Downloads

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