Biological Characterization of Muraenesox cinereus (Forsskål, 1775) from the Mangalore Coast: Analysis of Length-Weight Relationship and Condition Factor

Abstract

This study examined the length-weight relationship (LWR) and relative condition factor (Kn) of Muraenesox cinereus along the Mangaluru coast of Karnataka, India, during the period from August 2023 to March 2024. A total of 492 specimens were collected and analyzed, with lengths ranging from 15.7 to 57.6 am and weights from 8 to 183 g. The LWR equation s for males, females and combined data were determined as W = 0.0188 L2.3089, W = 0.0224 L2.2944, and W = 0.0186 L 2.3309, respectively, with coefficients of determination (r2) of 0.8269, 0.7791, and 0.7996. Both sexes exhibited negative allometric growth, as indicated by them growth coefficient (b<3). An analysis of covariance (ANCOVA) performed on log-transformed length- weight data revealed no significant differences (p>0.05) in mean weight between male and females or in the regression slopes of the LWR. Similarly, the relative condition factor (Kn) showed no significant variation across months or size groups. The study highlights consistent negative allometric growth in Muraenesox cinereus along the Mangalore coast, with no significant sex based differences in growth patterns or condition factor. These findings provide valuable insights into the species growth dynamics and contribute to its effective management and conservation in the region.