Filleting attributes, length-weight relationship and condition factor of some local fish species collected from Yanbu fish market (Red Sea coast, Saudi Arabia)

Analyzing the filleting attributes of fish is essential for evaluating the commercial viability of fish products. This study assesses the filleting attributes, length-weight relationships, and condition factors of three commercially important fish species (Lethrinus nebulosus, Epinephelus tauvina, and Plectorhinchus gaterinus) from the Yanbu fish market in Saudi Arabian Red Sea coast. Fillet production results indicated a decreasing trend in edible portions among these species, with Lethrinus nebulosus yielding the most, followed by Plectorhinchus gaterinus and Epinephelus tauvina. Fish with smaller heads and medium-sized skeletons produced higher edible fillet yields. Linear regression analysis revealed no significant differences, establishing a linear correlation between net edible weight and fillet yield. The length-weight relationship analyses for Lethrinus nebulosus, Plectorhinchus gaterinus, and Epinephelus tauvina indicated positive allometric growth. Condition factor analysis showed that Lethrinus nebulosus had the lowest mean condition factor (1.05±0.05), while Epinephelus tauvina had the highest mean condition (1.67±0.15). A robust association between weight and fillet yield components was also observed. These findings enhance our understanding of the biological and economic characteristics of these species along the Yanbu coastline, supporting fisheries management and postharvest research in line with conservation and restoration efforts. Keywords: Condition factor, Edible weight, Filleting yield, Fish products, Postharvest characteristics.