SEX RATIO AND BIOMETRIC INDICES OF PAMA CROAKER, OTOLITHOIDES PAMA (HAMILTON, 1822) FROM THE BAY OF BENGAL, SOUTH-WEST BANGLADESH

The Pama croaker, Otolithoides pama is a prominent marine species under Sciaenidae family. This Sciaenid fish is a popular table food and a perceptible protein source for Bangladeshi rural people. Our research highlights a comprehensive description of the biometric indices of O. pama sampled from the Bay of Bengal, south-west Bangladesh, together with sex ratio, length-frequency distribution, growth pattern, form factor, Fulton’s condition and prey-predator status. Overall 252 specimens (male = 171 and female = 81) were sampled by gill net during 2022 on seasonal basis (summer, rainy and winter).  Length and weight of the sampled fish were assessed with measuring board and digital balance. While the sex ratio (male: female = 1.00:0.47) deviated from the conventional ratio of 1:1, total length varied from 13.0 to 26.7 cm for pooled data. Both sexes revealed negative allometric growth (b < 3.00) pattern as a whole. Form factor (a3.0) was found 0.0074 which stated that the fish possessed a fusiform body shape. The mean Fulton’s condition factor denoted an indecorous state of health. Alternatively, prey-predator status was found quite suitable for O. pama population. The outcomes of our research would be highly effective for executing sound management policy in the marine water of Bangladesh.