Reproductive biology of Mugil cephalus (Linnaeus, 1758) in the Sundarbans estuary, Bangladesh

Authors

1 Bangladesh Fisheries Research Institute, Mymensingh-2201, Bangladesh

2 Aquatic Animal Health Group, Aquaculture Program, Department of Fisheries, Faculty of Biological Sciences, University of Dhaka, Dhaka-1000, Bangladesh

10.22092/ijfs.2026.136496

Abstract

The reproductive biology of Mugil cephalus in the Sundarbans estuary, Bangladesh, is essential for determining its spawning season and informing sustainable fisheries management and conservation strategies. The study aims to investigate the gonadosomatic index, fecundity, ovarian histology, and the spawning season of M. cephalus for the first time in this habitat. A total of 120 female specimens were collected through monthly sampling from three major rivers of the Sundarbans estuary between July 2022 and June 2023 for the study. Gonadosomatic index increased from July onward and reached a maximum in December (11.45±2.32%), followed by a marked decline, consistent with the post-spawning phase. The highest mean fecundity was observed in December (2003901.40±516749.64 eggs female-1). Histological observations revealed distinct ovarian developmental stages, a pattern consistent with group-synchronous ovarian development, and the presence of vitellogenic oocytes from October to February. Both histologically and macroscopically mature female individuals were observed from November to January. The length–weight relationship was significant (R²=0.951, p<0.001), revealing negative allometric growth (b=2.889). Gonad weight and fecundity showed significant relationships with total length and body weight. Estimated total length at which 50% of females were sexually mature (L₅₀) of M. cephalus was 45.83 cm. The study provides baseline information on the reproductive characteristics of M. cephalus in this estuary and the findings may support future studies on male reproduction, stock assessment, while further research incorporating environmental variables would help clarify their potential influence on the reproductive dynamics of M. cephalus.

Keywords

Iranian Journal of Fisheries Sciences
Volume 25, Issue 6
November 2026
Pages 983-999

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