Length –Weight Relationship, Condition Factor and Sex Ratio of Clarias gariepinus Juveniles Reared in Concrete Tanks

Abstract

Concrete tank culture of Clarias gariepinus is one of the most common fish farming systems in Nigeria. There is therefore need to know the growth pattern and condition of this fish in concrete tanks as there has been information on those from the wild and indoor recirculation system tanks. Length-Weight Relationship of C. gariepinus juveniles reared in concrete tanks in Aleluya Farm, Woji, Port Harcourt, Nigeria was studied. The fish samples were sexed, the lengths and weights measured according to standard methods. Temperature, pH, dissolved oxygen (DO) and ammonia (NH4) were determined following standard methods. The b value for the males was 7.74 while that of the females was 6.96 and combined sexes 7.87. The regression equation was Log W=-65.78+7.87 Log L (r = 0.90). Condition factor ranged between 1.06 (males) and 1.15 (females). The water quality parameters were within the acceptable range for fish production. C. gariepinus juveniles reared in concrete tanks exhibited positive allometric growth and in good condition of health. This growth pattern favours fish farming as it enhances its profitability.