BIOLOGICAL CHARACTERISTICS OF SPOTTED SCAT SCATOPHAGUS ARGUS (LINNAEUS) IN BINH DAI DISTRICT, BEN TRE PROVINCE

Abstract

Within the period of July, 2005 to June, 2006, a total of 373 spotted scats were obtained. Total length in mm,  body weight and gonad weight in grams were studied. The total length at maximum size was 281 mm (♀). The length - weight relationship was determined following for female W_♀ = 10^-1L^-2.8384, for male W_♂ = 10^-1L^2.8384. Food compositions of spotted scat were mainly Scatophagus,  Phytoplankton and some Zooplankton. Spawning occurred year-round with peak activity from August to  October. Size at maturity was 100 mm (L_t) for female.