Growth pattern studies on fish body length–weight & otolith length–weight relationship

Title : Growth pattern studies on fish body length–weight & otolith length–weight relationship

Abstract:

This study examines the relationship between fish body morphometrics (length and weight) and otolith dimensions (length and weight) to evaluate the strength of association between somatic and otolith growth. Otolith-based analyses are among the most significant approaches in contemporary fisheries science for understanding fish life histories. In this study, fish body lengths were measured using a vernier calliper, and body weights were obtained with an electronic scale. Otoliths were extracted from the cranial cavity, measured for length using a vernier calliper, and weighed using a microscopic electronic scale. The results revealed a positive correlation between fish body length and weight, indicating that somatic growth is closely associated with otolith development. Additionally, larger fish exhibited a strong positive correlation between body length and weight, while smaller fish showed a pronounced correlation in otolith length-weight relationships. These findings suggest that both somatic (length-weight) and otolith (length-weight) measurements are critical parameters for assessing fish growth patterns and understanding species-specific growth dynamics.

Biography:

Regina Gwaibo is Lecturer from PNG University of Natural Resources and Environment. She completed her Master's degree from National Taiwan Ocean University in 2024 and now serves as a lecturer in Fisheries Science and Management. Her research focus lies between stock assessment and applying bioeconomic model approaches to analyze catch trends, fishing effort, and economic returns with the goal of evaluating fishery sustainability and informing management strategies.