Morphometrics and Condition Factor Dynamics of the Goby Stigmatogobius pleurostigma (Bleeker 1849) During Dry and Wet Seasons in the Mekong Delta, Vietnam

Abstract

This study provides useful knowledge on the morphometrics, growth pattern and body condition dynamics of Stigmatogobius pleurostigma (Bleeker 1849). Three hundred fish (190 females and 110 males) were collected at Tran De and Nha Mat in the Mekong Delta from November 2015 to October 2016. Data analysis showed mean length and weight of S. pleurostigma were similar in females and males but significantly different between the dry and wet seasons. The weights of female and male S. pleurostigma could be estimated from a fish given the length due to the high coefficient values of the fish length and weight relationship (LWR). The length and weight relationship of females was similar to males at different sites in the dry-wet season pattern. Stigmatogobius pleurostigma displayed a negative allometric growth as the slope of LWR was significantly lower than the standard threshold of 3 and its growth parameters were not significantly different between gender, season and habitat. This goby could adapt well to the study region as its condition factor (K) was close to the better well-being value of 1 and its K value did not vary within gender, season and month. The results indicate that this gobiid fish lives in a favourable environment and provide helpful information for the population management of this fish.