On the biology of an estuarine population of the clupeidPellonula afzeliusi (Johnels) in Lagos Lagoon, Nigeria

Abstract

The length-weight relationship, condition factor, fecundity and food and feeding habits ofPellonula afzeliusi (Johnels) in Lagos Lagoon were investigated. The standard length of 1832 specimens examined ranged between 3.5 and 9.4 cm (total length 3.9 cm–11.4 cm) and was larger than reported elsewhere in West African man-made lakes. Specimens exhibited positive allometric growth. Their condition factor increased with individual size. Females had a slightly higher condition factor than males. The number of mature ova per female ranged between 330 and 33,649. There was a higher correlation between fecundity and weight than between fecundity and length. The major food items were crustaceans, insects and fishes. There were distinct differences in the feeding habits in relation to size. Variations were observed in the monthly analysis of food items.