Reproductive strategy of Labeo senegalensis Valenciennes 1842 (Teleostei : Cyprinidae) in the Ouémé basin, Benin.

Abstract

Aspects of the reproductive biology and population structure of Labeo senegalensis were investigated in the Ouémé River between April 2005 and March 2006. Reproductive strategy was investigated using gonadosomatic index, ovarian structure and fecundity. Average size-at-first-maturity (L50) was estimated at 29 cm TL for females and 25.7 cm TL for males. The average sex ratio (1:0.96) was not significantly different from unity. Oocyte diameter frequency distribution suggests synchronous development with a single total spawning. Absolute fecundity ranged between 12 948 and 74 832 eggs. Labeo senegalensis is a highly fecund fish that presents a seasonal cycle of reproduction from May to October during the rainy season.