Length-weight Relationship and Condition Factor of Blackspot Catfish Auchenoglanis biscutatus from the Lower River Benue Makurdi, Nigeria

Abstract

This study was carried out to evaluate the length-weight relationship and condition factor of the Blackspot Catfish Auchenoglanis biscutatus from the Lower River Benue Makurdi, Nigeria. A total of 200 freshly caught specimens of A. biscutatus were collected from the catches of the artisanal fisheries from landing points at Wadata Market in Makurdi, between July and September 2013. The result obtained showed that the “b” value for the males was 1.6698, females (1.6201) and combined sexes (1.7318) indicating a negative allometric growth. Correlation coefficient (r) for males was 0.9524, females (0.9290) and combine sexes (0.9085). Monthly mean condition factor (K), indicated that both sexes of A. biscutatus were in good health condition. It is therefore concluded that findings of this study will be useful in the sustainable management of this species in the lower River Benue.