ASPECT OF THE NEGLECTED BIOLOGY OF A JUVENILE CATFISH FROM THE WILD

This study aimed at enhancing the production of Chrysichthys nigrodigitatus through neglected biology of its juveniles. Samples were procured monthly (June- November 2018) from fishermen landing site at Epe Lagoon. Altogether 240 specimens ranging from 3.9 ? 101 mm Fork length (M = 12.52, SD = 6.46) and weighed 4.83 ? 40.2 g (M 15.2, SD = 5.11) were examined. Regression coefficient (b=2) of length ? weight relationship indicated negative allometric growth. Estimated form factor (a3.0) was 0.039. Vacuity index value (16 %) purported edacious species. Stomach content analysis based on relative importance index revealed that juvenile C. nigrodigitatus were omnivorous subsisting primarily on algae, (55.94), chironomid larvae (51.20), amphipods (40.22), rotifer (38.56), plant (37.94), and fish fry (34.49). Appraised relative gut length was > 1 validating omnivorous feeding habit. Feeding strategy plot depicted the species as generalist with insectivorous tendency. Juvenile Chrysichthys nigrodigitatus may thrive on insect protein when raise in culture enclosures.