Spatial dispersal and growth pattern of “nike” fish (apmhidromous goby larva) in Gorontalo, Tomini Bay

Abstract

Assessment of distribution and population growth are fisheries population dynamic aspects required to be observed periodically to address sustainable fisheries management. This research aimed to determine spatial dispersal, daily growth patterns, and condition factor of Nike fish as amphidromous schooling larvae in Gorontalo Waters, Tomini Bay. The number of 1808 larva samples were collected for eleven consecutive days during its natural appearance in August 2022. Based on total-length frequency distribution, the larva schools performing in this period presumably comprise more than one age group. Allometric positive daily growth patterns were shown in days 2, 4,7, 10 and 11. In contrast, isometric patterns were exhibited on days 1, 3, 5, 6, 8, and 9. The highest and lowest condition factor values were on the seventh day (length class interval of 32.1-33.6 mm) and the fifth day (length class interval of 28.9-30.4 mm), respectively. The result indicated that Nike daily growth patterns and condition factors fluctuated among their natural appearance days in Bone Estuary. It is understandable that the critical stages of larvae, such as varying salinity, competition for food and niche, and fishing pressure factors, must undergo estuary highly dynamic environmental conditions.