GONADO SOMATIC OF BAGRUS BAYAD IN AJIWA DAM KATSINA STATE
Abstract
AbstractThis study investigated the reproductive potential and morphological characteristics of Silver Catfish (Bagrus bayad), locally known as "Rago," in Ajiwa Dam, Katsina State, Nigeria. Despite its economic importance as a primary protein source, there is a significant lack of data regarding its reproductive biology in this specific reservoir, hindering sustainable management.Methods: Twenty samples of B. bayad were collected from local fishers at Ajiwa Dam. Morphometric measurements, including total length (TL), fork length (FL), and total weight (TW), were recorded. Following laboratory dissection, gonads were weighed (GW) and examined to determine maturity stages. The Gonadosomatic Index (GSI) was calculated using the formula $GSI = (GW / TW) \times 100$. Data were analyzed using mean, standard deviation, and linear regression via Microsoft Excel.Results: Morphological analysis showed a range of sizes, while macroscopic examination revealed that 100% of the sampled fish were matured, indicating a state of reproductive readiness within the population at the time of collection. The GSI values ranged from 0.087% to 0.790%. Correlation analysis indicated a slight positive relationship between total length and GSI, whereas GSI tended to decrease slightly as total weight increased.Conclusion: The findings suggest that the B. bayad population in Ajiwa Dam is actively reaching reproductive maturity, though the relatively low GSI values (maximum 0.790%) compared to other environments may suggest external stressors such as habitat degradation or seasonal fluctuations. This study provides baseline data essential for the conservation and sustainable harvesting of Bagrus species in Northern Nigeria. Further histological research is recommended to define specific gonadal developmental stages and seasonal spawning peaks.Keywords: Bagrus bayad, Gonadosomatic Index, Ajiwa Dam, Reproductive Biology, Fisheries Management.
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