Original scientific paper

Age, growth and reproductive properties of an invasive species Carassius gibelio (Bloch, 1782) (Cyprinidae) in the Ikizcetepeler Dam Lake (Balikesir), Turkey

ZELIHA ERDOGAN ; Department of Biology, Faculty of Science and Arts, University of Balikesir, Cagıs Campus, 10145, Balıkesir, Turkey
HATICE TORCU KOC ; Department of Biology, Faculty of Science and Arts, University of Balikesir, Cagıs Campus, 10145, Balıkesir, Turkey
SERKAN GUNGOR ; Department of Biology, Faculty of Science and Arts, University of Balikesir, Cagıs Campus, 10145, Balıkesir, Turkey
GULCIN ULUNEHIR ; Department of Biology, Faculty of Science and Arts, University of Balikesir, Cagıs Campus, 10145, Balıkesir, Turkey

Abstract

Background and Purpose: The Prussian carp Carassius gibelio is well
known as a hazardous fish species for native fish communities. Ikizcetepeler Dam Lake inhabits some fish species as Cyprinus carpio, Leuciscus cephalus, and Barbus species. The dam lake has major economic importance to the area for both fisheries and drinking water. The reason to select C. gibelio
was due to the dominant species in stagnant and slow running waters and possible harmful interactions with native species.

Materials and methods: A total of 480 specimens of C. gibelio were
monthly collected by gill nets during a 1-year period from Ikizcetepeler Dam Lake. Age was determined from scales. Length-weight relationships, von Bertalanffy equation were used to estimated for growth. Sex were determined
by macroscopic observation of gonads. Spawning period of this species was determined according to gonado-somatic index (%).

Results: Females and males reached a maximum age groups of VI. Total length was 23.6–31.3 cm in females and 23.0–31.4 cm in males. The male and female ratio was 1:3.52 (M:F) in the favor of females. The Von Bertalanffy growth equations (in length) were found as Lt= 34.89.(1-e–0.11(t+7.66)), Lt= 32.09 (1-e–0.23(t+5.83)) for females and males, respectively. The estimated b values were given as 2.886 and 2.981 for females and males, respectively
(b<3). The condition of the fish increased during early summer. Spawning period of this species occured between April and July.

Conclusions: With a comparison of the relevant literature, the studied
Prussian carp population was characterized by a shorter life span and more rapid growth during the first years of life. These can be considered as typical features of invasive species.

Keywords

Hrčak ID:

135187

URI

https://hrcak.srce.hr/135187

Publication date:

30.9.2014.

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