Morphometric Analysis of Hydrocynus forskahlii (Tigerfish) in Wadata and Wurukum Market of Lower Benue River

Fish is one of the most significant animal protein sources, generally acknowledged as a strong source of protein and other nutrients for maintaining a healthy body. They have significant role in nutrition, income, employment and foreign exchange earning of the country. This work attempts to provide information on the morphometric characteristics of Hydrocynus forskahlii in the Lower Benue River, outlining the relationship between length and weight as well as determining the condition factor. Ninety-nine samples of Hydrocynus forskahlii were obtained from local markets in Makurdi town (Wadata and Wurukum Market) and transported to the laboratory for analysis. Morphometric measurements included the Head Length, Total Length, Body Length, Body Weight, Eye Diameter, Standard Length and Total Length; these were obtained using a meter rule and body weight was determined using an electric weighing scale. The length-weight relationship and Condition factor of Hydrocynus forskahlii calculated showed that the species exhibited negative allometric growth (b