The rearing of Nile tilapia (Oreochromis niloticus) and its fillet have shown a vigorous market expansion in Brazil and worldwide. Therefore, a regression model obtained from external physical parameters, of easy observation, which can predict the yield and weight of fillet, making it possible to select individuals with higher yield potential. The objective of this work was to obtain a model that allows a prediction of fillet yield and weight, based on morphometric measurements and weight. Data were collected on 890 individuals and the measured characters were: total length (TL), standard length (CP), length of the head (CC) and the stem (CTR), height of the head (CA1), lumbar height (AL), height flow (CA2), lumbar thickness (EL) and throughput (EC), body weight (PESO), fillet weight (FW) and yield of fillet (RF). A linear regression analysis was performed, with PF and RF as dependent variables. The R² for the model of the FP was 0.80 - a satisfactory result - suggesting that the body measurements are reliable for estimating fillet weight. For the RF model, R² was 0.16, which is not adequate to estimate fillet yield, requiring further studies in order to obtain a reliable model.
Oreochromis niloticus; morphometric relationships; phenotypic selection