ASPECT OF BIOLOGY AND THE NUTRITIONAL PROFILE OF Panulirus regius FROM THE MAKOKO FISH LANDING SITE, LAGOS LAGOON, NIGERIA

Abstract

Panulirus regius is an edible marine crustacean known for its spiny exoskeleton and its economic significance in
most parts of the world due to the high market demand among other benefits. Studies on aspects of biology and
nutrient composition were conducted from the Makoko fish market of the Lagos Lagoon. The species were
collected monthly between November, 2023 and July, 2024. The total length, standard length and body weight
ranged between 11.4 – 27.0 cm, 9.0 – 24.0 cm and 25.5 – 453.1 g respectively. The length-weight relationship
showed negative allometric growth (b<3) while the correlation coefficient (r) showed a strong positive
correlation (0.9271), indicating that as the length increases, the weight of the organism also increases. The
species exhibited evidence of cannibalistic or tendencies of consuming their own shed shells (exuvia), as lobster
shells were the major items observed in the stomach contents. There was no significant difference (P > 0.05) in the
sex ratio, with males slightly more abundant than females (1:0.9). The findings on the proximate composition
revealed that P. regius is rich in protein with significant differences (P < 0.05) in the various nutritional
parameters for the dry and wet seasons. The mineral composition showed that the species is rich in sodium,
potassium and calcium which are essential for growth, nerve and muscle function, and the development of strong
bones and teeth across all age groups. However, there is a need for continued research to explore the underlying
mechanisms for the seasonal variations and to ensure optimal conditions are maintained for the health and
sustainability of lobster populations.