Morphological Characteristics and Length-Weight Relationships of Hilsa Shad Tenualosa ilisha (Hamilton, 1822) (Actinopterygii: Clupeidae) in the Ganges River, Bangladesh

Morphological characteristics, length-weight relationships (LWRs) and length-length relationships (LLRs) using multi-linear dimensions of Tenualosa ilisha (Hamilton, 1822) from the Ganges River, north-western Bangladesh, are examined. Samples (257 specimens) were occasionally collected during July 2018 - June 2019. Fin rays and scales were counted by a magnifying glass. A total of 9 morphometric lengths and total body weight (BW) were measured to the nearest 0.1 cm and 0.01 g for each specimen. Fin formula was: Dorsal, D. 15-19 (2-4/13-17); Pectoral, P. 14-16 (1/13-15); Pelvic, P-v. 6-10 (1-2/5-8); Anal, A. 18-21 (1-2/16-20); and Caudal, C. 20-22 (2/18-20). Each LWRs were greatly significant (p< 0.001) with r(2) >= 0.963. Based on r(2) value, BW = 0.0215 xSL(3.01) was the fittest. Additionally, LLRs by TL vs. SL was the best fitted model among 8 equations depending on r(2) values. The provided biological information will support further studies and management of T ilisha in the Ganges River and elsewhere using any liner-dimensions.