Fecundity insights: the breeding habits of Atlantic mudskippers in Ogbo-Okolo mangrove forest of Santa Barbara River, Bayelsa State Niger Delta, Nigeria

Rationale: Fecundity estimation and reproductive biology of Atlantic mudskippers (Periophthalmus barbarus) in the Niger Delta region of Nigeria needs to be studied. Objectives: To estimate fecundity, gonadosomatic index, and condition factor of P. barbarus and describe its reproductive biology. Methods: P. barbarus specimens were collected from Ogbo-Okolo mangrove forest in Bayelsa State, Nigeria. Length, weight, and gonad weight measurements were taken. Fecundity was estimated by the gravimetric method. Length-weight relationship, condition factor, and gonadosomatic index were calculated. Ovarian developmental stages were identified. Results: Highest mean fecundity of 9612.7 eggs was observed in females of 10.1-12.0 cm standard length and 20.0-27.9 g weight. Length-weight relationship showed specimens were in good condition. Gonadosomatic index was higher in smaller individuals. Four ovarian developmental stages were identified. Conclusion: P. barbarus exhibits high fecundity. Reproductive potential is greater in intermediate sized individuals compared to smaller or larger fish. Recommendations: Sustainable management practices should be implemented to conserve P. barbarus stocks in the Niger Delta region. Further research into reproductive behavior and ecology is needed.