Reproduction of Algerian Barbel Luciobarbus callensis (Cyprinidae) in the Agrioun River, Algeria

Abstract

The aim of the present study is to investigate the reproductive parameters in Luciobarbus callensis. Different indices related to the fish and to the sperm parameters are considered, including gonadosomatic index (GSI), hepatosomatic index (HSI), condition factor (K), sperm ejaculate volume and concentration, and sperm motility duration. Male and female GSI peak is observed in April–May. HSI expresses an inverse pattern compared to GSI in both sexes, and K index changes inversely compared to GSI. The lowest values of K index are observed during the spawning season revealing corporal reserve mobilization in the mating effort. The first sexual maturity of 50% of the fish is observed at 18 and 21 cm TL in the males and females, respectively. Maximum ejaculate volume (6500 µL on average) is observed in May and June. Positive correlations are observed between sperm ejaculate volume and fish length and weight.