Breeding Periodicity of the Mullet, Liza macrolepis from Mangalore Waters

Studies on breeding periodicity of Liza macrolepis inhabiting Mangalore waters indicated that this species spawns only once in a year over a period extending from June to November with a peak during July to August. Data on the size at first maturity of Liza macrolepis using cumulative frequency method showed that male attained first maturity at 223.64 mm T.L., while the female at 236.36 mm T.L. Male always recorded lower Gonado-Somatic Index (GSI) values than female due to higher ovary weight compared to testis. The GSI values were high during June to November with peaks in July and August indicating the spawning period of this fish. The fecundity of fish ranged from 1, 22,278 to 6, 74,232 eggs, with an average of 2, 84,146 eggs. Log linear relationships were established between fecundity and total length, fecundity and body weight of the fish as well as fecundity and gonad weight. The sex-ratio of male to female was 1:0.85. There was an overall male dominance in the population.