Growth parameters of Luciobarbus callensis (Cyprinidae) in arid freshwater hydrosystems of Algeria
Research articles → Vertebrate Zoology
Authors
1. Laboratory of Biological Sciences and Agronomic Sciences, Faculty of Sciences, Department of Natural and Life Sciences, Amar Telidji University, 3000 Laghouat, Algeria.
2. Department of Agricultural Sciences, Faculty of Sciences, University of M'Sila, 28000 M'Sila, Algeria.
* Corresponding author: S. Babaci, E-mail: s.babaci@lagh-univ.dz
Keywords
Luciobarbus callensis, morphometry, allometry, sex-ratio, Von Bertalanffy model.
Abstract
This study examined 332 specimens of Luciobarbus callensis collected in 2023 from three hydrological stations in Algeria: Oued l'Ham, Soubella Dam, and Oued M'Zi. As an abundant and economically important species, L. callensis plays a key role in local artisanal fisheries. Sex ratios varied among sites, with a strong male bias at Oued l'Ham, a moderate male bias at Soubella, and a nearly balanced ratio at Oued M'Zi. Morphometric analyses revealed clear differences among sites and between sexes. Females generally showed more positive growth patterns than males, especially at Oued l'Ham and Soubella, whereas growth at Oued M'Zi was mostly isometric in both sexes. Length-weight relationships also indicated better body condition in females at some sites, likely linked to reproductive investment. Von Bertalanffy growth models further showed strong spatial and sexual variation. Females reached larger asymptotic sizes, while males had higher growth constants, suggesting faster growth toward smaller adult sizes. Overall, the results point to marked growth plasticity in L. callensis, shaped by both habitat conditions and sex-specific life-history strategies.
Article history
Received: 11 November 2025 / Accepted: 06 March 2026 / Available online: 28 June 2026 / Printed: 30 June 2026
Authors` ORCID IDs
S. Babaci https://orcid.org/0000-0001-7956-8456
R. Chaibi https://orcid.org/0000-0003-4768-3788
F. Mimeche https://orcid.org/0000-0002-9135-6760
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