Length–Weight Relationships and Condition Factor of Snow Trout, Schizothorax richardsonii (Gray, 1832) From Different Rivers of the Himalayan Region in India

Abstract

The present study describes the length–weight relationship and condition factor of a vulnerable indigenous snow trout, Schizothorax richardsonii (Gray, 1832) of the sub-family Schizothoracinae from different Himalayan rivers/streams of India. A total of 254 samples of S. richardsonii were measured from the rivers Ravi, Sahoo, Sewa (Chamba District, H.P.), Teesta (North West Bengal) and Indus (Leh, Jammu and Kashmir). The values of regression coefficient (b) ranged from 2.44 to 3.11 (r 2 > 0.97). The values of regression coefficient in rivers Sewa, Ravi and Sahoo were 3.03, 3.07 and 3.11, respectively (close to 3.0) indicating isometric growth; in rivers Teesta and Indus, the values of b were below isometric value (significantly <3.0) demonstrating negative allometric growth. The values of condition factor showed significant differences between rivers and ranged from 0.60 to 1.27. The findings of the present study could be useful to help in conservation and sustainable fisheries management of this indigenous species.