ASSESSMENT OF MORPHOMETRICS, LENGTH-WEIGHT RELATIONSHIPS

This study aimed to assess the morphometric characteristics, length-weight relationships (LWR), and condition factors (K) of five selected fish species from Lake Alau, Maiduguri, Borno State. A total of 175 fish samples, comprising 35 specimens each of Brycinus nurse, Coptodon zillii, Clarias gariepinus, Synodontis clarias, and Oreochromis niloticus, were analyzed for ten morphometric parameters Morphometric Measurements include total length, standard length, and fin dimensions. The results show significant variations in morphometric features across the species, reflecting differences in their body growth and ecological adaptations. The length-weight relationship analysis revealed that Brycinus nurse exhibited isometric growth (b ≈ 3.0), while Coptodon zillii and Synodontis clarias demonstrated negative allometric growth (b < 3). Conversely, C. gariepinus and Oreochromis niloticus showed positive allometric growth (b > 3). These growth patterns highlight the species-specific responses to the lake's environmental conditions and resource availability. Condition factor analysis revealed a higher mean K value in Oreochromis niloticus (1.96), indicating favorable growth and condition followed by Coptodon zillii (1.57). The lowest K value was recorded in Clarias gariepinus K=0.06, suggesting suboptimal conditions for this species. These findings underscore the ecological variability and potential impacts of fishing pressure and anthropogenic activities on the fish population in Lake Alau. The study provides critical insights into the biology and ecology of the selected fish species, contributing to effective fisheries management and conservation strategies. The results emphasize the need for sustainable exploitation and monitoring of Lake Alau to safeguard its fishery resources for future generations.