Annual cyclical changes in the gonadosomatic index of Cyprinus carpio var. communis in Dal Lake, Kashmir

Abstract

The study deals with the annual cyclical changes in the Gonadosomatic Index of Common carp, Cyprinus carpio var. communis in Dal lake, Kashmir. Accurate GSI and spawning period estimation play a significant role to evaluate reproductive potential of fish. It also helps to understand the productivity trends, dynamics of fish population and spawning stock biomass. Assessment of the GSI of a fish is essential for evaluating the commercial potentialities of its stock, life history, practical culture and actual management of the fishery. The male GSI ranged from ranged from 2.5±.728 to 9.5±.458 and the female GSI ranged from 3.5±4.03 to 16.3±.12.The peak GSI in both sexes was noted in May. Significant variation in female GSI was found in the month of April, May and June (p