Biological characteristics of the longarm mullet Moolgarda cunnesius (Valenciennes, 1836) in estuarine and coastal waters of Can Gio, Ho Chi Minh City
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Abstract
Biological characteristics of the longarm mullet Moolgarda cunnesius (Valenciennes, 1836) were investigated in the estuarine and coastal areas of Can Gio, Ho Chi Minh City. Morphometric measurements and meristic counts were obtained from 31 specimens collected in November 2022. A total of 344 specimens collected from January to December 2024 were used for biological analysis. Length-weight relationship (LWR), relative condition factor (Kn), relative gut length (RLG), length at first maturity (L50), gonadosomatic index (GSI), and relative fecundity (Fr) were estimated using standard formulas. Absolute fecundity (Fa) was determined using the gravimetric method. The length-weight relationship was W = 0.230 x L2.731 (R2 = 0.909; n = 344). The Kn was significantly higher in the rainy season than in the dry season (P < 0.001). The RLG of the fish was 2.66 (1.85 - 3.92). The gonadosomatic index (GSI) of this mullet was highest in February 2024 (2.60%) and lowest in August 2024 (0.08%). The absolute fecundity (Fa) of M. cunnesius ranged from 13,302.0 to 77,253.0 eggs per female, in females weighing 46.73 - 81.31 g. The relative fecundity (Fr) averaged 503,557.0 eggs/kg per female. The estimated length at first maturity (L50) was 159.86 mm. The results of this study provide baseline biological information on the longarm mullet and support the management and sustainable utilization of this resource in Can Gio, Ho Chi Minh City.
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