Evaluation on the growth pattern and biological conditions of Sembilang (Plotosus canius) in East Aceh

Sembilang (Plotosus canius) is a delicious and nutritious fish that belongs to the family of Plotosidae and has great demand in coastal communities. Therefore, this research aimed to examine the data on growth patterns, morphometric and meristic measurements, and feeding habits of sembilang in the East Aceh mangrove area. The data collection included growth patterns, fish and fin length, and body width, and then the meristic measurements were carried out by counting the number of fin rays. The results showed that the length and weight of the fish ranged from 22-43 cm and 86-296 gr, respectively. Furthermore, the correlation coefficient r is 0.986 and the regression equation is W = 0.024L2.410. Its main diet is shrimp, with an IP rate of 47%, and they also consume feeds such as worms, small fish, crabs, and pieces of leaves. In conclusion, the growth pattern of sembilang (Plotosus canius) in the East Aceh mangrove area was negative allometric.