The Length-Weight Relationship and Condition Factor (K constant) of the Sparidae (Dentex Marocannus, Valenciennes 1830) of Malindi, Kenya

Abstract

The length-weight relationship and condition factor can be used for estimation of the species standing crop biomass, life history and morphological comparison of populations from different regions. However, teleostean species caught along the Kenyan Coast fishery such as Siganus, Lethrinus, Lutjanus among other species have had their length-weight relationship and condition factors determined, but such a study on Sparidae appear to have not been studied or at least published. This study investigated the length-weight (L-W) relationship and the condition factor (K= 100W/L^b) of Dentex Macrocannus (Valenciennes, 1830), a Sparidae, found in Malindi, Kenya, from June to August 2008. The L-W relationship obtained for intercept a was 2.04 ± 0.97 and values for the slope b were between 2.87 ± 0.84-2.96 ± 0.36. The condition factor varied from 0.91 - 2.84 ± 0.07. Regression coefficients obtained were indicative of positive allometric growths. Specimen of D. marocannus examined can be said to have been in good condition and healthy therefore can be used for estimation of its population dynamics and fish stock assessment.