Catch composition, length-weight relationship and food habits of fishes of Lake Baringo, Kenya

Peninah A. Aloo,
Department of Zoology, Kenyatta University, Nairobi, Kenya

Abstract

The catch composition, length-weight relationship and the food habits of fishes of Lake Baringo have been investigated over a period of six months. Samples of five fish species landed at the central landing beach (Kampi ya Samski) were collected every day during the entire study period. The lengths and the weights of each fish were recorded. Data on lengths and weights are analysed using the ABee program to establish the length-weight relationship of each species. Length-frequency distribution data are used to establish the status of the fisheries of the lake. Sub-sample of each fish species served to examine the diet composition. The information is used to establish the trophic levels in the lake.

Results

The preliminary results of this work have revealed that Oreochromis niloticus (Linnaeus) dominates the catches of Lake Baringo while Labeo cylindricus Peters is the least abundant. Results of the catch composition lengths and diet are summarised in the table below:

Fish species Food items

% contribution to total catch

Length (Max/Min)
Oreochromis niloticus Aquatic insects, detritus, phytoplanktons and zooplanktons

80.04

36/18
Clarias gariepinus Fish juveniles, aquatic insects, zooplanktons and algae

8.88

82/22
Protopterus aethiopicus Snails, fish juveniles, benthic invertebrates, detritus, beetles

7.55

45/14
Barbus gregorii Aquatic insects, algae, fish juveniles, benthic invertebrates, detritus

3.06

40/17
Labeo cylindricus Fish juveniles, aquatic insects, detritus

0.06

  

 

Discussion

Various reports have indicated that O. niloticus is the most abundant fish in many East African freshwater bodies. The success of this fish in maintaining high populations has been attributed to its mouth-breeding habits, which protect its young ones from predation. Labeo cylindricus occurs in low numbers in the lake due to the damming of the inflowing rivers. From the results of the diet composition, it is evident that most of the food items available in the lake are being utilised.