Abstract
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Article Information:
Abundance, Length-Weight Relationship and Condition Factor in Selected Reef Fishes of the Kenyan Marine Artisanal Fishery
E.K. Mbaru, E.N. Kimani, L.M. Otwoma, A.Kimeli and T.K. Mkare
Corresponding Author: Emmanuel Kakunde Mbaru
Submitted: 2010 August, 07
Accepted: 2010 October, 14
Published: 2010 February, 15 |
Abstract:
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This study describes the results of length frequency distribution, catch per unit effort, Length-Weight
Relationship and condition factor (Fulton’s K) analysis of 4 major fish species along the Kenyan coast. Highest
CPUE value (1.8±0.7 kg) was observed among E. andersoni in 2001, however all species recorded high CPUE
values in 2005. Over 70% of the fish landed measured between 10-35 cm (total length) with a decrease in K
values beyond the 50 cm length among the 4 species. From 5 cm size classes, parameters a and b of the lengthweight
relationship of the form W = a.Lb were estimated. All regressions were highly significant, with
coefficient of determination (r2) going up to 0.99 (L. fulviflamma, p<0.05). The Student’s t-test revealed most
size classes had b-values ranging from 2.38 (25-29 cm) to 3.99 (70-74 cm) (L. fulviflamma) significantly
different from 3 (p<0.01, p<0.05). This implies that the “cube law” cannot be applied to all size classes. The
estimated parameters should be applied to the species within the specific length ranges analyzed. Knowledge
of these species is important for adequate management and maintenance of the biological equilibrium of the
ecosystem.
Key words: Condition factor, CPUE, kenyan coast, length frequency, , ,
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Cite this Reference:
E.K. Mbaru, E.N. Kimani, L.M. Otwoma, A.Kimeli and T.K. Mkare, . Abundance, Length-Weight Relationship and Condition Factor in Selected Reef Fishes of the Kenyan Marine Artisanal Fishery. Advance Journal of Food Science and Technology, (1): 1-8.
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ISSN (Online): 2042-4876
ISSN (Print): 2042-4868 |
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