Abstract

Lemma Abera Hirpo

The breeding season and condition factor of Oreochromis niloticus were studied in Lake Babogaya. 917 (565 female and 352 male) samples collected over 12 months between September 2005 to August 2006. Fulton condition factor was 2.13. Two factors ANOVA indicated a significant seasonal fluctuation in the condition of both sexes, but not between male and female O.niloticus. Poor body conditions coincided with time of peak breeding activity. The interaction effects of sex and month on Fulton condition factors was not significant. State of gonad maturation and Gonadosomatic index values showed that Oreochromi niloticus in Lake Babogaya breeds all year round with peak activities between April to August and during this time needs to manage the lake to use the resource appropriately.