Prediction of Body Weight Using Morphometric Indices in Giant African Land Snail in Three Zones of Imo State

Abstract

Prediction of body weight using morphometric indices in giant African land snail (Achatina marginata) was studied for the three (3) agro-ecological zones in Imo State (Owerri, Okigwe and Orlu zones). One hundred and sixty (160) snails in Imo State were surveyed in course of this study. Data were generated through measurement of body weight, shell length, shell width, shell thickness, mouth length, weight of shell, weight of visceral, length of foot and thickness of foot. Data collected were subjected to regression analysis using SPSS statistical package. Results showed generally highly significant value (p<0.01) R2 value and R- value across the zones. Highly significant difference (p<0.01) was observed in Owerri zone for the weight of shell, and the shell length While in Okigwe zone, only the weight of visceral showed a significant effect (p<0.01). In Orlu zone also, the shell width, shell mouth length and foot thickness showed a significant effect (p<0.01). The study therefore recommends that the linear model used, fits the data. Hence a comprehensive selection program for improvement of A. marginata in Imo State could be planned using the regressions coefficients obtained from the study.