Some Morphometric Characteristics of Alburnus caeruleus (Heckel, 1843) in Adıyaman Region, Türkiye

In this study, the distribution and some diagnostic features of Alburnus caeruleus in Adıyaman region were determined. The research was carried out in 18 stations which contains two natural lakes (Azaplı and Gölbaşı Lakes), two reservoirs (Atatürk and Çat Reservoir) and 10 stream systems. Alburnus caeruleus individuals were detected from Kahta Stream, Sofraz Stream, Ziyaret Stream, and Çakal Stream. The average length of A. caeruleus individuals caught in the research area is 73.70-81.91 mm, and their average weight is 3.70-5.56 g. It was determined that the colours and patterns of A. caeruleus individuals differed according to stream habitats, the number of line lateral scales was 51-55, and the number of pharynx teeth was 2.5-5.2. A. caeruleus has a limited distribution in the streams in the Adıyaman region, from minimal populations and needs to be protected. Additionally, A. caeruleus has the potential to be an ornamental fish in aquariums.