Scale characteristics in relation to size in cichlid fish, Oreochromis mossambicus

Abstract

Teleostean scale characteristics like length, width, number of circuli, primary radii, secondary radii and ctenii were studied to delineate its relationship with total length in a euryhaline fish, Oreochromis mossambicus (perciformes: cichlidae). Statistical analysis proved a positive correlation between the scale characteristics and fish size. The characteristics of midlateral scales indicated that these scales appeared first during squamation chronology. Further observations also indicated that differences in salinity could modify the morphometries of scales.