Studies on Reproductive Biology of Priacanthus Hamrur (Forsskal) from Northwest Coast of India

Abstract

Based on the analysis of data collected from New Ferry, Wharf and Sassoon Ducks landing centers, during October 2006 to September 2008, the length at first maturity of Priacanthus hamrur was calculated as 202 mm for females and 184 mm for males. Analysis of month-wise sex ratio indicates significant predominance of female in all months except for June and November. Length-wise sex ratio also indicated predominance of females from size group 180 - 199 mm onward. Fecundity varied from 94,179 to 6,70,541 eggs and relative fecundity from 599 to 2278 eggs / g body weight. The ripe ovaries were observed in January and February and again from April to August with the maximum percentage in month of June. The spent stage (VIl) was recorded from March to May and from August to November with maximum during October. June to September duration is probably the peak of extended spawning season for the species. The prominent peak in GSI was observed in June. Seven stages of maturity were identified in female of the species. The ova diameter showed that the ripe gonads of P. hamrur contain only one batch of mature ova. There was very significant relations between gonado-somatic index and gastro-somatic index.