MORPHOMETRY AS A TOOL FOR TAXONOMY AND IDENTIFICATION OF M. RUME FROM EPE LAGOON

Abstract

Morphometric and meristic characterization are essential tools in fish identification, ecology, and taxonomy. In this study, a morphometric and meristic characterization of Mormyrus rume, commonly known as Elephant trunk fish, was conducted from Epe axis of Lagos Lagoon. A total of 150 fish samples were collected and grouped based on their size; small, medium, and large. The metric and meristic characters were measured and variations were observed in all the groups except for dorsal fin rays, which were constant. The study demonstrated a gradual increase in body length and weight with corresponding dorsal and anal fin rays, showing isometric growth patterns of M. rume from Epe axis of Lagos Lagoon based on morphometry characterization and length-weight relationship. The outcome of the study can serve as useful information for the management of M. rume from Epe axis of Lagos Lagoon, including the identification and taxonomy of the specie