Stocking Density and Feeding Levels Impacted on Morphometric and Condition Factors of Hybrid Catfish

Background and Objective: Stocking densities and feeding levels have an impact on the production of farmed catfish. Morphometric parameters and condition factors are tools employed in aquaculture to assess the health of a species. Materials and Methods: Hence, the morphometric parameters and condition factors were investigated against different stocking densities and feeding levels. The fish were reared using tarpaulin tanks measuring 1 m³ in 250 L of water with five different densities: 100 fish/0.25 m³ (T1), 75 fish/0.25 m³ (T2), 38 fish/0.25 m³ (T3), 18 fish/0.25 m³ (T4) and 9 fish/0.25 m³ (T5). The experiment had three replicates and lasted for 52 weeks. Feeding was administered at 1.0% feeding level (FL) and 1.5% feeding level biomass with commercial feed. The obtained data were statistically analyzed using analysis of variance and means separation with Duncan’s Multiple Range Test. Results: Results from the statistical analysis revealed significant differences (p<0.05) in specific morphometric parameters among the different stocking densities, while others were insignificant. The hybrid catfish reared at T2 and 1.5% (FL) had the highest mean values for morphometric parameters. The T1 at 1.0% FL recorded the least morphometric values. The best condition factor (0.77) was obtained at T5. Conclusion: This study, therefore, suggested that 75 fish/ m³ stocking density is optimal for raising hybrid catfish and achieving the best growth.