Eco-morphology of Fishes in Okpoka Creek: A Tributary of Bonny River

Abstract

Background: The role of ecomorphological studies in the comparative biology of fish was reviewed to understand the interaction between the morphology of fish and their ecology. It was revealed that the environmental conditions of fish tend to directly or indirectly influence the morphology and ecology of fishes. Ecomorphology makes up a very critical part of comparative biology, as well as ecopsychology, behavioral ecology, and evolutionary ecology. Aim: This study investigated the ecological adaptations of fishes across six major stations in Okpoka Creek in the Niger Delta region of Nigeria (Oba, Abuloma, Kalio, Georgetown, Okrika, and Ogoloma). Study Design: Cross-sectional study. Place and Duration of Study: Okpoka Creek, Abuloma Area, Kalio town, George Town, ATC Okrika and Ogoloma Area, between April 2021 and March 2022. Methodology: The study was carried out in Okpoka creek located in Okirika Local Government Areas. This study obtained samples from six distinct communities: Oba Town Area, Kalio Town Area, Geoge Town Area, Ogoloma Town Area, ATC Okrika Area, and Abuloma Town Area, all situated in Okrika Local Government Area, Rivers State, Nigeria, during both dry and rainy seasons. Fish samples from various species were collected throughout 12 months (April 2021 March 2022). On reaching the laboratory, the fish specimens from each sampled station were identified to species level using fish identification references. Some specific measurements were made in all the fish samples (individually) with the help of a calibrated meter rule (cm) and ratios were calculated. Data generated from this study were collated and subjected to analysis of variance using SPSS version 23. Results: Ecomorphological analyses through Principal Component Analysis revealed distinct adaptive strategies. Benthic specialists like Chrysichithys auiratus showed high fin depth indices (FDI=0.984) and long guts (RLDT=4.15), while pelagic predators like Caranx hippos exhibited streamlined bodies (CI=1.17) for rapid movement. Conclusion: Study showed strong links between morphological traits and habitat use, emphasizing the need for diverse habitat conservation.