Use of the alometric and the fulton condition factors to compare the carp (Cyprinus carpio) considering sexes and ages

Abstract

In fish, the relation beteween body weight and total length allows us to calculate the condition factor, which determines its grade of development. The experiment was conducted at the Fishery Station of the State University of Londrina. The sample was constituted of 65 fishes, 31 males and 34 females. Fishes came from the same hatch and were raised at the same enviromental condition. Using the weights and the total body lengths at ages 60, 120, 180 and 240 d, the alometric and the Fulton condition factors, were determined. The results indicate that the two condition factors presented differences in the grade of development between sexes and within sex. The grade of development in females was greater than males, with the exception of the age 240 d. As the relation between body weight and body length in carp is not isometric, the alometric condition score is the most indicated.