Analysis of condition and swimming performance in juveniles of white sea bream, Diplodus vulgaris

A pilot study was conducted to follow condition and swimming performances over two months using three samples of 50 juveniles of white sea bream, Diplodus vulgaris. The initial result indicated that the weight-length relationship followed the model; W=5.2x10(-3)L(3.49). According to this relationship, condition indices were estimated for each individual as the observed weight related to the computed weight. Measures of swimming velocities realized in an artificial flume show variations through time with an increase and decrease directly correlated to condition indices. Maximum speed of an individual was measured at 12.3 cm s(-1). Analysis of environmental conditions indicated that the decrease of condition index and swimming performances was related to bad weather which induced turbid water in juvenile habitats.