The recruitment pattern of Macrobrachium species from Igbedi Creek, Bayelsa State, Niger Delta, Nigeria

Abstract

The recruitment pattern of Macrobrachium species at Igbedi Creek, Bayelsa State, Nigeria, were investigated to show if it can support optimum shrimp catch in the year 2020. The riparian settlements of Ogoubiri, Toruibeni, Amassoma and Otuan were chosen for this research. The result showed that there are three species in the Creek which were Macrobrachium macrobrachion, Macrobrachium vollenhovenii and Macrobrachium felicinum. Juveniles and ovigerous females were observed for all three species. The recruitment model in FiSAT II was utilized and the result showed that the percentage recruitment peak for Macrobrachium macrobrachion was 23.78% in the month of June while Macrobrachium vollenhovenii was 17.40% in the month of July. Recruitment peaks were recorded for both sexes in the months of March to September in all four locations and there was year-round recruitment for the both species. The species Macrobrachium felicinum was captured in the month of November with few catches. Male domination of females for Macrobrachium vollenhovenii and Macrobrachium felicinum were recorded. Therefore, this study recommend that optimum catch can be attained through closed season policies and further research on Macrobrachium species at Igbedi Creek.