Application of Linear Programming Technique in Least-cost Ration Formulation for African Catfish (Clarias gariepinus) in Semi-intensive Culture System in Nigeria

摘要

This study was undertaken to test the use of the Least-cost feed formulation software (WINFEED 2.8), in determining how best the available local ingredients can be combined effectively and efficiently to formulate least-cost ration for African catfish(Clarias gariepinus) fingerlings. Two isonitrogenous (35% CP) and isolipidic (6.29% lipids) diets were formulated using Pearsons square method and linear programming technique. Data on feed ingredients composition and prices were obtained from proximateanalysis and market survey while that of nutrient requirements of catfish and limits on their level of inclusion were obtained from standard tables. The formulated rations were tested on catfish fingerlings (4.82-5.10 g) twice daily for 6 days a week intriplicate groups of experiments for growth performance and feed utilization. The experiment was conducted for 120 days in earthen ponds. Result indicated efficient allocation of ingredients leading to 10.13% reduction in feed cost kg~(-1) feed. Growthperformance and feed utilization parameters were significantly (p<0.05) better in the test diet. The cost of producing one kg of feed could be reduced by 18.21 naira kg~(-1) feed and this will enable catfish farmers in Nigeria to supply fish at lower prices.