Assessment of the Effects of Some Reproductive Hormones on Aspects of Reproductive Biology of <i>Clarias gariepinus</i> and <i>Heterobranchus longifilis</i>

Abstract

Protein food sources are highly recommended for a healthy living and fish is one of the most recommended protein sources. This research was aimed at enhancing fish seed propagation and the effects of four fish reproductive hormones (Ovaprim, Carp pituitary extract, human chorionic gonadotropin, and Deoxy-corticosterone acetate) on some aspects of reproductive biology of Heterobranchus longifilis and Clarias gariepinus bought from Itu head-bridge, Akwa Ibom state. Sixty mature broodstocks (both males and females) of each species weighing 2.0 kg were used in this study. The experimental procedure was made up of four experimental groups (treatments) with three replicates including control. Each group was administered with the appropriate dosage of the respective reproductive hormone. The mean relative fecundity in both species using ovaprim and human chorionic gonadotropin showed no significant difference, while carp pituitary extract showed significant difference (p < 0.05) in both species. The mean egg hatchability values in the species administered with ovaprim, human chorionic gonadotropin and carp pituitary extract were similar (p > 0.05). Mean values were significantly different (p < 0.05) from those administered with Deoxy-corticosterone acetate. The mean fry survival rates in both species were not significantly different (p > 0.05) with human chorionic gonadotropin, carp pituitary extract and ovaprim, but showed significant difference (p < 0.05), except Deoxy-corticosterone acetate. Female brooders in the control tanks showed no result throughout the study. Treatments with the hormones yielded better result, except in the case of Deoxy-corticosterone acetate. It could be concluded that reproductive hormones, especially ovaprim and carp pituitary are better for breeding H. longifilis and C. gariepinus. The results from the study are crucial in encouraging fish seed propagation through the application of artificial hormones.