A comparative analysis of morphometric and meristic traits of endangered (Salmo opimus Turan, Kottelat and Engin, 2012 and Salmo plathycephalus Behnke, 1968) and at risk (Salmo okumusi Turan, Kottelat and Engin, 2014) trout species.

Kara C., Can M. F.

MARINE AND LIFE SCIENCES, cilt.7, sa.2, ss.56-64, 2025 (Hakemli Dergi)

  • Yayın Türü: Makale / Tam Makale
  • Cilt numarası: 7 Sayı: 2
  • Basım Tarihi: 2025
  • Doi Numarası: 10.51756/marlife.1747299
  • Dergi Adı: MARINE AND LIFE SCIENCES
  • Derginin Tarandığı İndeksler: Environment Index
  • Sayfa Sayıları: ss.56-64
  • Karadeniz Teknik Üniversitesi Adresli: Evet

Özet

his study examines interspecies differentiation by comparing the morphometric and meristic

characteristics of two endangered trout species (Salmo opimus Turan, Kottelat and Engin, 2012

and Salmo plathycephalus Behnke, 1968) and a species with the potential to be endangered

(Salmo okumusi Turan, Kottelat and Engin, 2014). The research was conducted between 2014

and 2016 in the upper tributaries of the Ceyhan, Seyhan, and Euphrates basins in Türkiye. A

total of 25 morphometric and 24 meristic characters were examined, and the measurements

influencing interspecies differentiation were analyzed using the Random Forest model. The

results indicate that S. plathycephalus exhibits significant differentiation in metric

characteristics. In particular, variables such as predorsal length, head length, and body height

are key distinguishing factors for this species. Among the meristic traits, the number of red

spots and black markings on the operculum are critical for species identification. This study

enhances understanding of species’ environmental adaptations and informs conservation

strategies, laying a foundation for sustainable management. Future research should focus on

habitat conservation efforts.