Early development and allometric growth patterns in Electric blue Cichlid Sciaenochromis fryeri Konings, 1993

The present study was conducted in Electric Blue Cichlid Sciaenochromis fryeri in early larval developmental stages from the fifth day post hatching (DPH) until 51 DPH to determine day of transforming from embryo to juvenile. Morphological characteristics were evaluated by using ImageJ software. Allometric growth patterns were calculated based on the formula Y=aXb. Yolk sac depletion was occurred on day 9. Scales were developed on day 19 and finaly developed juvenile shape. allometric pattern of different body segments were calculated according to isometry, positive, and negative allometry. Positive allometry of head and tail prior to inflexion point and variation in allometric growth pattern in different body segment determine priorities of organogenesis for survival in fish early life history. The obtained results showed consistency between the larval morphological changes and development of organs related to sensory movements and larval behavior. Every morphological change in larvae displays the development and evolution of one of the organs involved in feeding, breathing, swimming and sensory organs.