Food and condition of the catfish Synodontis in Upper Benue River Basin, Yola Area, Nigeria

Abstract

Investigation was carried out on food and condition of the Catfish, Synodontis species in the Upper Benue River Basin, Nigeria from March to June, 2000. Fish samples were obtained twice monthly from different fish landing sites. Analysis showed that there was no significant difference between the sizes of males and females. Length-weight regression analysis indicated isometric growth of the species sampled. Correlation analysis between length and weight was highly significant. Monthly mean condition factor was constant during the period of investigation. The fish species exhibited diversity in their diets with insect parts, larvae and Algae as the main diets. The overall sex ratio showed a close proximity to 1:1 ratio.


Key words: Food, condition, Synodontis sp.


Journal of Aquatic Sciences Vol.17(2) 2002: 105-108