Morphological characteristics of yearlings of Grass carp (<i>Ctenopharyngodon Idella</i>) in the fish farm of Bukhara region, Uzbekistan
Abstract
The study focused on the morphological variability of one-year-old grass carp (Ctenopharyngodon idella), a commercially important fish species in Uzbekistan. Various meristic indicators were examined, revealing specific characteristics: D III 7, A III 7-8 (average 8), 39 - 45 (42) lateral line scales, and 19 – 22 (21) rakers on the first gill arch. These indicators provide insights into the unique morphological features of grass carp at this developmental stage. Additionally, plastic parameters were assessed using both classical methods for cyprinid fish measurement and geometric morphometry. These parameters provide a more detailed understanding of the physical traits and variations within the grass carp population. The use of geometric morphometry allows for a more comprehensive analysis of shape and size variations, offering valuable insights into the overall morphology of the fish. Overall, the study's findings contribute to a better understanding of the morphological characteristics of one-year-old grass carp, which is crucial for effective management and conservation strategies. This research provides a foundational understanding of the species' morphology, which can aid in future studies related to growth patterns, population dynamics, and conservation efforts.