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VOL. 11, ISSUE 2 (2026)
Reproductive biology and spawning periodicities of Parachanna obscura (african snakehead, Gunther 1861) in Shagari dam, Sokoto State, Nigeria
Authors
Jibrin H, Bala G
Abstract
This study investigated the reproductive
biology of Parachanna obscura (African Snakehead)
in Shagari Dam, Sokoto State. Fish samples were collected monthly over a
six-month period, spanning from April 2025 to September 2025. Focusing on
the Gonadosomatic Index (GSI), maturation stages, and sex
ratios from April to September 2025. Analysis of GSI values
revealed bimodal spawning activity for females, with peaks occurring
in May (2.33 ± 0.40) and August (2.13 ± 0.32), while male GSI
remained relatively stable, peaking in May (1.64 ± 0.62). Histological
assessment of maturation stages showed that ripe (Stage
V) and spent (Stage VI) individuals were most prevalent
in July and August, aligning with the peak GSI periods. The overall sex
ratio shifted significantly across life stages; males dominated
the immature (2.5:1) and developing (1.67:1) stages,
whereas females were overwhelmingly more abundant in the mature
(0.11:1) and ripe categories. These findings suggest that P.
obscura in Shagari Dam exhibits a protracted breeding
season with intense activity during the peak rainy months. These data are
critical for developing sustainable fisheries management strategies
for this species in North-Western Nigeria.
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Pages:36-40
How to cite this article:
Jibrin H, Bala G "Reproductive biology and spawning periodicities of <i>Parachanna obscura</i> (african snakehead, Gunther 1861) in Shagari dam, Sokoto State, Nigeria". International Journal of Fisheries and Aquatic Research, Vol 11, Issue 2, 2026, Pages 36-40
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