Effect of stocking density on growth performance, survival, production, and financial benefits of African sharptooth catfish {Clarias gariepinus) monoculture in earthen ponds

摘要

The present on-farm study assessed the effect of different stocking densities on growth, production, and financial benefits of African sharptooth catfish [Clarias gariepinus) in earthen ponds for 180 days. Low stocking density (LSD), medium stocking density (MSD), and high stocking density (HSD) of 3,6, and 9 fish m , respectively, were tested. G gariepinus stocked at LSD and MSD showed significantly higher weight gain, specific growth rate, and final mean weight than those cultured at HSD (P < .05).There was a significant linear relationship between the stocking density and the yields and financial variables (P < .05). Net fish yields were significantly higher for C. gariepinus reared at HSD and MSD than those stocked at LSD (P < .05). Similarly,C. gariepinus raised at MSD and HSD generated significantly more profit than those cultured at LSD (P < .05). Results demonstrated that farmers can achieve high net yield and financial benefits by stocking C gariepinus at HSD of 9 fish rrT2.