Age-Dependent Enhancement in Fecundity and Ova Diameter of Schizopyge niger (Heckel, 1838) in Dal Lake, Kashmir

Reproductive Potential in Schizothoracids

Abstract

Understanding the reproduction and recruitment pattern is essential for successful conservation of a species. Accurate estimates of fecundity plays a
crucial role in comprehending fish population dynamics. The snowtrout, Schizopyge niger, is a Cyprinid fish widely distributed throughout the lakes of Kashmir valley and is one of the most important commercial fish species. In this study, we examined the age-dependent reproductive perfor-
mance of female S. niger, aiming to gain insights into its breeding characteristics for the development of an optimal brood-stock management plan. The study involved 78 female S. niger specimens collected from Dal Lake during the spawning season, representing age groups of 2⁺, 3⁺, 4⁺, 5⁺, and 6⁺ years. Fecundity and ova diameter showed an increasing trend from age 2⁺ (3,971 eggs; 1.45 mm) to age 6⁺ (10,501 eggs; 2.00 mm). Total fecundity exhibited positive correlations with age, total weight, ovary weight, and ova diameter. Additionally, there was a positive correlation between ova diameter and fish age, with the highest fecundity and largest ova diameter observed in the 6⁺ years age group. Among each age group, fecundity and ova diameter varied significantly (p <0.05). Based on
these findings, for optimal broodstock management of S. niger, it is recommended to use females of the
6⁺ years age group after assessing the quality of eggs.