Length-weight Relationship and Condition Factor of Some Commercial Artisanal Fish Species in Bamusso Coast, Cameroon

Abstract

Background: The seasonal dynamics of the Gulf of Guinea, characterised by alternating dry and rainy seasons, exert profound influences on oceanographic conditions, primary productivity, and fish recruitment patterns. Understanding these seasonal patterns is particularly important for artisanal fisheries that depend on predictable seasonal variations in fish availability and abundance. Aims: This study investigated the length-weight relationship (LWR) and condition factor (K) of ten commercially important artisanal fish families from the Bamusso Coast, Cameroon, sampled monthly from January to June 2024. Methodology: A total of 677 specimens from families including Carangidae, Mugilidae, Clupeidae, Sphyraenidae, Polynemidae, Ariidae, Cynoglossidae, Lobotidae, Sciaenidae, and Serranidae were measured for total length (cm) and weight (g). LWR parameters were estimated using the equation W = abL, while the condition factor was calculated as K = 100W/Lb. Results: The results revealed significant interspecific variability in mean lengths (26.42–82.77 cm) and weights (0.18–4.81 g). Sphyraena barracuda exhibited the greatest mean length (82.77±37.78 cm), while Epinephelus marginatus recorded the highest mean weight (4.81±24.97 g). Length-weight relationships varied considerably among species, with Caranx hippos (b=2.30, r=0.86) and Lobotes surinamensis (b=2.96, r=0.94) showing strong positive correlations. All species displayed negative allometric growth (b<3.0), indicating a disproportionate increase in length relative to weight. Condition factor values ranged widely from 0.002±0.001 (Lobotes surinamensis) to 122.10±397 (Polydactylus quadrifilis), reflecting species-specific physiological conditions and habitat utilisation. Conclusion: These findings establish baseline biological parameters relevant to sustainable fisheries management in Cameroonian coastal waters and contribute to regional fish biology databases. The observed variability in growth patterns and condition factors underscores the need for species-specific management strategies to support the long-term conservation of artisanal fishery resources.