Evaluating the developmental instability of Scatophagus argus (Linnaeus, 1766) from Lower Agusan River Basin, Butuan City, Philippines using fluctuating asymmetry

Fluctuating Asymmetry (FA) is the most frequently used tool for measuring developmental instability. It is used as a measure of ecological stress and a sign of developmental stability of organisms. The study evaluatedthe use of FA in assessing the condition of Scatophagus argus in lower Agusan river basin. High FA values would indicate exposure to polluted aquatic environment. The study selected S. argus because of its observed susceptibility to aquatic pollution in the area. There were a total of 60 samples collected (30 males and 30 females). Using Thin-Plate Spline (TPS) series, landmark analyzes were obtained and subjected to Symmetry and Asymmetry in Geometric Data (SAGE) software. Procrustes ANOVA showed high significant differences (P