Assessment of Length–Weight Relationship and Condition Factor of Rainbow Trout (Oncorhynchus Mykiss) Cultured in ISTOG Fish Farm, Peje Region, Kosovo

Abstract

This study evaluates the length, weight, and condition factor of rainbow trout (Oncorhynchus mykiss) cultured in aquaculture systems. A total of 136 fish specimens with varying body sizes and weights were analyzed and categorized into three groups based on weight: >100 g, >150 g, and >200 g. Morphometric measurements showed progressive increases in size across the groups. The mean total lengths recorded were 22.6 cm, 24.8 cm, and 27.3 cm for the first, second, and third groups, respectively. Similarly, the mean fork lengths were 21.1 cm, 23.0 cm, and 25.5 cm across the respective groups. The average body weights were 126 g, 176.8 g, and 227.6 g, indicating consistent growth patterns among the sampled fish. The condition factor values also increased with body weight, with recorded means of 1.27, 1.36, and 1.41 for the three groups, respectively, suggesting improved health status in larger fish. Overall, the findings provide baseline biological data on the growth performance and condition factor of rainbow trout cultured in the Istog fish farm. These results may serve as useful reference information for aquaculture management and fish production optimization in Kosovo and other similar environments.