Morphometric Variation of Fish

One of the Oryzias species commonly found in South Sulawesi and known as an endemic fish is O.celebensis. The lack of comprehensive data on its habitat and morphological characteristics forms the basis of this research, which aims to [1] describe the geographical distribution of O. celebensis in South Sulawesi and [2] analyze the size variability of the species across multiple locations using the truss morphometric method. This study was conducted from April to June 2024. Specimens were collected from three locations: Dewi Lamsang pool [Pangkep Regency], Pattunuang River [Maros Regency], and Pa’rappunganta River [Takalar Regency]. A total of 30 specimens [10 from each location] were analyzed. Morphometric measurements were carried out in the laboratory of the Marine Science Department, Hasanuddin University, using the truss network system with 16 homologous landmarks covering the head, body, and tail regions. Measurements were taken using a digital caliper with 0.01 mm precision to ensure high accuracy. Statistical analysis was conducted to identify significant differences in body shape variations across populations. The results indicated that O. celebensis prefers calm, vegetated freshwater habitats. Morphometric comparisons revealed significant size differences among the populations, especially at reference points C4, A1, B6, B8, and C1, suggesting spatial variation in morphological traits likely influenced by environmental conditions.