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VOL. 11, ISSUE 1 (2026)
Morphometric analysis and length-length relationships of Magur Fish (Clarias batrachus) in the Gangetic plains of Bihar: Implications for stock assessment and aquaculture management
Authors
Dr. Ankit Kumar, Dr. Kamal Kant Patra
Abstract
This study establishes the first comprehensive morphometric framework
for Clarias batrachus (Magur) in the Gangetic plains of Bihar,
providing critical insights for stock assessment and aquaculture management. A
detailed analysis of 23 morphometric characters from 150 specimens revealed
strong linear relationships among key body measurements. Expressed as
proportions of total length (TL), the mean standard length was 89.2%, head
length 20.6%, and body depth 15.2%. Correlation analyses confirmed highly
significant (P < 0.001) positive relationships between most parameters and
both total and standard length. Notably, standard length (r=0.98), head length
(r=0.96), post-orbital length (r=0.95), and body girth (r=0.93) exhibited the
strongest correlations with TL, indicating their utility as reliable predictors
of body size. Eye diameter showed a significant but comparatively lower
correlation (r=0.75; P<0.05). The relatively weaker correlation for anal fin
length (r=0.63 with SL) suggests differential fin allometry. The strong
correlation between body girth and length (r=0.93) has direct implications for
assessing condition factor and stock robustness. These findings establish
baseline morphometric norms essential for differentiating wild stocks from
hatchery populations, developing species-specific growth models, and informing
selective breeding programs. The length-length relationships derived from this
study offer practical tools for fisheries managers and aquaculturists in Bihar
for rapid, non-invasive stock assessment and improved aquaculture practices for
this priority species.
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Pages:89-95
How to cite this article:
Dr. Ankit Kumar, Dr. Kamal Kant Patra "Morphometric analysis and length-length relationships of Magur Fish (<i>Clarias batrachus</i>) in the Gangetic plains of Bihar: Implications for stock assessment and aquaculture management". International Journal of Academic Research and Development, Vol 11, Issue 1, 2026, Pages 89-95
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