Food and biometric features of the grey mullet, Mugil cephalus (Linnaeus) from Epe Lagoon

Abstract

The food and biometric features of the grey mullet, Mugil cephalus caught in Epe Lagoon were investigated to ascertain the source of the recent occurrence of the species in Lekki Lagoon and the probable exchange of individuals between Lagos and Lekki Lagoons. A total number of 166 specimens of Mugil cephalus caught from Epe Lagoon (low brackish / freshwater) were examined for food and feeding habit and biometric features from November 2006 – May 2007. The food of the species consisted mainly of algae (Bacillariophta, Cyanophyta, Chlorophyta and Pyrrophyta) and detritus. The size range of fish examined were 12.4 – 27.0cm (standard length) while the weight ranged from 22.40 – 308.00g. The mean values of the biometric characters of Mugil cephalus did not reflect wide variations. The population dominant cohort in the lagoon represents the harvestable and marketable representative for a sustainable fishery and is a strong indication of potential for freshwater culture of this marine species.