Length-weight relationship and condition factor of endemic fish Bilih (Mystacoleucus padangensis Blkr.) in Lake Singkarak, West Sumatra, Indonesia

Research Center for Limnology Indonesian Institute of Sciences, Indonesia

^* Corresponding author: syahroma@limnologi.lipo.go.id

Abstract

Bilih (Mystacoleucus padangensis) is an endemic species of Lake Singkarak and has important economic value. Overfishing of Bilih fish using non-selective fishing gear has led to a decline in its population. High demand, resulting in decreased production and size of Bilih fish. This research aims to determine this endemic fish's length-weight relationship and condition factor as basic data to the effort conservation. The fish was captured with experimental gillnet mesh sized 5/8, ¾, and 1 inch in Sumani, Batu Taba, Paninggahan, and PLTA intake stations. The total length and the weight of Bilih fish ranged from 40 – 95 mm and 10 – 74 mg, respectively. The highest length and weight of Bilih were 80.3 mm, and 45.0 mg were found at the Sumani station. The growth pattern of male and female fish was a negative allometric characteristic. The length-weight relationship of male and female fish was W = 0.00137 L^2.368 and W = 0.00179 L^2.312, respectively. Condition factors of males and females are 1.02 and 1.004, respectively. The result of condition factor value for males is higher than the female. The water quality values are within the normal range that supports fish life.