Reproductive biology of gray-eel catfish, Plotosus canius, in the coastal waters of Port Dickson, Peninsular Malaysia

Aim: The present work aimed at examining the reproductive biology of gray-eel catfish, Plotosus canius, from the coastal waters of Port Dickson, Peninsular Malaysia. Methodology: Samples were collected on a monthly basis from fishermen during the full moon between January and December, 2012. Results: The overall annual sex ratio was 1: 0.98 (males: females). The annual GSI variation indicated a long distinct breeding period from April to September; with major breeding activity between May and June. The length range of males at sexual maturity was 44 - 48 cm (mid length, 46cm) total length and that of the females was 40 - 44 cm (mid length, 42 cm) total length. Fecundity of P. canius ranged from 643 to 1140 (mean 943 ± 38.40) eggs, and had a positive and significant relationship with body length, body weight and ovary weight. Females attained sexual maturity earlier than the males. Interpretation: Knowledge on the reproductive biology of P. canius is useful for their conservation, successful culture and breeding programs.