A preliminary study of length-weight relationship (LWR) and condition factor of Pagellus erythrinus from Gökçeada Island, northern Aegean Sea (Turkey)

Abstract

The aim of the present study was to estimate the length-weight relationship and to determine the condition factors of the common pandora (Pagellus erythrinus Linnaeus, 1758) from Gökçeada Island, the northern Aegean Sea in Turkish coasts. Totally 30 specimens of P. erythrinus which are considered as bycatch were sampled by a commercial trawl in the northern Aegean Sea. Total length values of the sampled individuals ranged between 13.60 cm and 18.70 cm in total length and weight values ranged between 28.58 g and 90.04 g. The length-weight relationship of P. erythrinus was estimated as W=0.0062L³.²⁵⁸¹ (R²=0.94). The length-weight relationship was highly significant (p<0.0001). Fulton’s condition factor ranged between 1.08 and 1.56 with a mean of 1.26 (SE: ±0.02). The relative condition factor ranged between 0.86 and 1.26 with a mean of 1.01 (SE: ±0.02). P. erythrinus exhibited a positive allometric growth and the results of Fulton’s condition factor and the relative condition factor indicate the well-being of specimens in the study area. Knowledge of the distribution of exploited stocks is important for the appropriate management of fisheries resources. Therefore, the relationships between the length and weight of fish populations should be investigated and updated regularly. This study provides significant information on the length- weigh relationship and condition factors of P. erythrinus for fisheries managers and policymakers. Responsible authorities should consider the findings of the present study for sustainable fisheries management.