PHENOTYPIC AND GENOTYPIC CHARACTERISATION OF WILD AND CULTURE CICHLID POPULATIONS (Sarotherodon melanotheron) IN LAGOS STATE, NIGERIA.

Abstract

This study was carried out to characterize and identify Sarotherodon melanotheron using morphometric and
molecular approach. A total of forty (40) samples were collected; 10 samples each of farm-raised (Akinsateru
and NIOMR farms, Lagos) and wild (Lagos and Badagry Lagoon, Lagos) were collected in Lagos State for 3
months. The standard lengths and weights of the fish used for the study ranged from 8.40 cm to 17.20 cm;
26.10g to 133.00g for farm-raised and wild populations respectively .Seventeen morphometric and meristic
characters were measured with divider, thread, measuring board and ruler. Data collected were analyzed
using t-Test. The results showed there were significant differences (p≤0.05) among the characters measured in
wild and farm-raised S. melanotheron. Random amplified polymerase DNA (RAPD-PCR) analysis was carried
out using Operon primers (OPC 04, 05, 10, OPR 02 and OPI 05).Of the 5 primers, only 4 primers showed
both stable amplification and polymorphism except on some samples (both wild and culture) having low
reproducibility. The bands generated from the molecular results showed that the inter-specific similarity
coefficient between the wild was 78%; culture was 80%; and 100% for both wild and culture samples.