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Breeding Space as a Determinant of Growth Morphometrics, Gonadal Development, and Hepatic Condition in Clarias gariepinus (Burchell, 1822)

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Ekpo I. P., Ekpo P. B., Ekpenyong B. N., Ozah H. P.

World News of Natural Sciences

2025

vol. 62

261-276

This study investigated the impact of breeding space, specifically pond size, on growth, reproductive performance, and metabolic health in Clarias gariepinus (African sharptooth catfish), a species of significant aquaculture value. Ten fish samples sourced from ponds of varying sizes were assessed for morphometric parameters, including standard length (50.8 - 59.3 cm) and body weight (1400 - 2000 g), along with reproductive status measured by the Gonadosomatic Index (GSI: 0.2 - 5.0) and metabolic health assessed by the Hepatosomatic Index (HSI: 0.6-3.7). Fish reared in larger ponds showed significantly greater mean body length (58.9 cm) and body weight (1950 g) compared to those in smaller ponds (53.2 cm and 1450 g, respectively; p < 0.05). Similarly, liver weight and HSI values were higher in the large-pond group (HSI mean 3.4) relative to small-pond fish (HSI mean 1.2), indicating enhanced energy reserves. Correspondingly, GSI values were significantly elevated in larger ponds (mean 4.3) compared to smaller ponds (mean 1.1; p < 0.05), suggesting improved reproductive readiness. An inverse correlation (r = –0.68, p < 0.01) was observed between GSI and HSI, consistent with energy mobilization toward gonadal development during peak reproduction. Nevertheless, fish in optimal environments maintained relatively high levels of both indices, signifying the importance of adequate nutrition alongside space. These findings underscore pond size as a critical determinant of growth, reproduction, and metabolic condition in C. gariepinus. The study recommends that aquaculture practitioners prioritize larger, well-managed pond systems to optimize fish health and productivity. Regular monitoring of GSI and HSI is also advised to inform management decisions. Further research is warranted to delineate the interactions between breeding space and environmental variables to refine sustainable practices, meeting global aquaculture demands while ensuring fish welfare.

Silver Catfish [Chrysichthys nigrodigitatus (Lacepède, 1803)] as Nature’s Sentinels: Decoding Morphometric and Meristic Indices to Safeguard Calabar River’s Future

100%

Ekpo I. P., Ekpo P. B., Ozah H. P.

World News of Natural Sciences

2025

vol. 63

issue 2

56-67

Aquatic ecosystem health is fundamentally linked to water quality, which is influenced by both natural processes and anthropogenic activities. The Calabar River, a critical freshwater resource in Nigeria, is increasingly threatened by pollution, habitat destruction, and climate change, adversely affecting its biodiversity and ecosystem services. Fish species, such as the Silver Catfish [Chrysichthys nigrodigitatus (Lacepède, 1803)], are widely acknowledged as effective bioindicators due to their sensitivity to environmental changes. This study investigates the potential of Silver Catfish as sentinels of environmental health in the Calabar River by assessing their morphometric and meristic characteristics alongside relevant physiochemical parameters of the river water. Over a three-month period, Silver Catfish specimens were collected monthly from Nsidung Beach, Calabar South. Morphometric traits, including body length and weight, and meristic counts such as fin rays, were analyzed in the laboratory. Concurrently, key physiochemical parameters temperature, dissolved oxygen, pH, turbidity, conductivity, total dissolved solids, and total suspended solids were measured to characterize water quality. Results revealed significant seasonal variability in morphometric indices, indicating potential environmental influence on fish growth and condition, whereas meristic features remained constant, suggesting genetic stability. Water quality parameters fluctuated, reflecting the impact of anthropogenic pressures and natural changes. The integration of these biological and environmental data highlights the suitability of Silver Catfish as effective sentinels for monitoring ecosystem health in the Calabar River. This study provides critical baseline data to inform sustainable management and conservation strategies aimed at safeguarding the river’s ecological integrity and supporting local communities reliant on its resources.

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2 World News of Natural Sciences

2 2025

2 Ekpo I. P.

2 Ekpo P. B.

2 Ozah H. P.

1 Ekpenyong B. N.

Search results

Breeding Space as a Determinant of Growth Morphometrics, Gonadal Development, and Hepatic Condition in Clarias gariepinus (Burchell, 1822)

Silver Catfish [Chrysichthys nigrodigitatus (Lacepède, 1803)] as Nature’s Sentinels: Decoding Morphometric and Meristic Indices to Safeguard Calabar River’s Future