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ABSTRACT
A study of the morphometry, length-weight, length-length relationships, the growth pattern of chelipeds, and condition factor of gladiator swimming crab from Warri River, Delta State were studied. A total of 765 crabs were purchased from artisanal fishermen. The crabs were separated into males (235) and females (530). The sex of the crabs was identified by the shape of the abdomen. Measurements of interest were measured to the nearest 0.1 millimeters (mm) and 0.1 grams (g) using an electronic digital caliper (Model: 0-150mm) and an electronic weighing balance (Model: K-500BH) respectively. Data gathered was analysed using a statistical package for social sciences and was considered at a significance level of 5% (P<0.05). The total body weight of the combined population of C. pallidus ranged from 1.92 – 164.84g (52.01±29.04) and the total length ranged from 25.32 – 115.40mm (80.13±16.48). This study showed that there was a high significant difference(P>0.05) in the length-length relationship between the carapace and major and minor cheliped. The major and minor cheliped length for the male ranged from 41.73 – 150.80mm and 18.79 – 150.80mm respectively. The female major and minor cheliped length ranged from 41.92 – 122.50mm and 31.87 – 113.37mm respectively and that of the combined ranged from 41.73 – 150.80mm and 18.79 – 150.80mm respectively. The result for the length-length relationship between the carapace length and the major and minor cheliped length showed a negative allometry in the male, female, and combined sexes (b<3). A negative allometry was also observed between the individual segments of the cheliped and the carapace length of the major and minor cheliped of C. pallidus. In conclusion, a strong relationship was observed which was indicated by the r2 values which is an important tool in the stock assessment and culture of these stocks.
