Análisis de las variaciones morfométricas del campeche (Chaetostoma fischeri) en poblaciones de dos regiones del Ecuador

The morphometry of the campeche (C. fischeri) has been almost completely unknown in Ecuador. This study aims to describe the morphometric characteristics of the species in two locations in the province of Los Ríos. A total of 120 samples were taken from the Umbe and Quevedo rivers in the province of Los Ríos. In the microbiology laboratory at the La María campus of UTEQ, total length, standard length, head, trunk, and tail dimensions, and head and body perimeters were quantified using high-precision rulers and measuring tapes. Subsequently, environmental variables such as water temperature, salinity, pH, and dissolved oxygen were measured, finding statistical differences between sampling locations. The Quinsaloma station showed a pH of 8.05, a temperature of 22.53 °C, salinity of 9.67%, and dissolved oxygen at optimal levels, which are the most appropriate conditions for biota. In contrast, Quevedo had a pH of 8.79, a temperature of 26.73 °C, and salinity of 10%. A linear correlation analysis showed a strong positive relationship between the weight and length measurements of C. fischeri specimens in the environmental factors and treatments analyzed.