Morphometric Characteristics, Length-Weight Relationship, and Absolute Abundance of Cerithidea cingulata from the Mangrove Forest of Brgy. Ubagan, Sto. Tomas, La Union, Philippines

Et Al., Ramirez

doi:10.21608/ejabf.2025.428432

Morphometric Characteristics, Length-Weight Relationship, and Absolute Abundance of Cerithidea cingulata from the Mangrove Forest of Brgy. Ubagan, Sto. Tomas, La Union, Philippines

Author

Ramirez et al.

10.21608/ejabf.2025.428432

Abstract

Cerithidea cingulata is a gastropod species commonly found in the mangrove forest of Brgy. Ubagan, Sto. Tomas, La Union. This study examined the morphometric characteristics, length-weight relationship, and absolute abundance of the species to better understand its growth patterns and ecological dynamics. Among the morphometric characteristics, only diameter of the operculum, length of the body whorl, and length of the hump body whorl displayed a significant relationship with shell length (P<0.01). Linear regression analysis revealed a significant positive correlation between length and weight (b=1.79, P<0.001) with a negative allometric growth pattern (b<3). C. cingulata was abundant in the studied mangrove forest with a substantial estimated total stock (x̄=21). However, the wide confidence interval highlights the need for careful interpretation and further research to refine estimates and better understand population dynamics. Information on growth patterns and relationships is essential for assessing the health of populations within mangrove habitats. Monitoring gastropod populations over time is necessary for assessing their ecological role and ensuring the health of mangrove ecosystems.

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