Spatial Variations in Morphometry and Nutritional Composition of the Moroccan Atlantic Sardines (Sardina pilchardus) (Walbaum, 1792)

Abbassi Et Al., Mohamad

doi:10.21608/ejabf.2023.325666

Spatial Variations in Morphometry and Nutritional Composition of the Moroccan Atlantic Sardines (Sardina pilchardus) (Walbaum, 1792)

Document Type : Original Article

Author

Mohamad Abbassi et al.

10.21608/ejabf.2023.325666

Abstract

The present study conducted a preliminary investigation into the morphological and biochemical characteristics of the sardine species Sardina pilchardus, captured along the Atlantic coasts of Morocco. Through our analysis, significant differences were identified among sardine samples collected from various fishing areas. The results revealed that Moroccan sardines have great potential as a valuable source of essential nutrients for meeting human nutritional requirements. Moreover, a comprehensive assessment of the biochemical composition demonstrated that sardines sourced from the Central Atlantic area in Morocco consistently exhibited superior quality in terms of both nutritional content and morphological attributes. The mean height measure was 16.08±1.01 cm, while the mean biochemical composition was 18.09±1.61% for protein and 11.56±2.05% for total lipid levels. These findings highlighted the significance of sustainable fishing practices and underscored the importance of considering specific geographic locations when evaluating the quality and nutritional value of sardine populations.

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