Spatial Variations in the Stocks of Randall’s Threadfin Bream, Nemipterus randalli Russell 1986 Along the Indian Coast Inferred Using Body and Otolith Shape Analysis

Nemipterus randalli is one of the predominant species in demersal fisheries along the Indian coast. Analysis of morphological divergence among the stocks using different stock identification methods provides a basis for sustainable resources management. In the present study, body and otolith shape was used to elucidate the stock structure of Randall’s threadfin bream. Specimens of N. randalli were sampled from five major fishing regions across the Indian coast from September 2018 to November 2018. A total of 23 truss distances and six otolith shape indices from each specimen were extracted and analyzed using multivariate statistical analysis. Body and otolith shape analysis suggested the existence of different phenotypic stocks of N. randalli along the Indian coast. Phenotypic variations among the stocks might be probably due to the existing environmental conditions in their respective habitats. Therefore, there is a need for independent management approaches for different stocks of N. randalli . Further, complete understanding of the temporal variation of stocks in the future could be useful in managing the fishery resource.