The Effect of Understocking Density of Channel Catfish Stockers in Multiple-Batch Production |
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Authors: | Brent E Southworth Carole R Engle Kraig Ruebush |
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Institution: | 1. Aquaculture/Fisheries Center , University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff , Pine Bluff, Arkansas, USA cengle@uaex.edu;3. Aquaculture/Fisheries Center , University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff , Pine Bluff, Arkansas, USA |
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Abstract: | A multiple-batch study was conducted using stocker catfish (0.09 kg/fish) and carryover fish (0.39 kg/fish) to look at the effects of different stocker densities on fish production. Twelve 0.1-ha ponds were stocked with 7,400; 11,120; or 14,825 stockers/ha, and equal weights of carryover fish (2,268 kg/ha). Fish were fed once daily to apparent satiation with a 32% protein floating feed and aerated with a single 0.37-kW electric paddlewheel aerator. No significant differences were detected for gross, net, and net daily yields, growth (g/d), or survival. Sub-marketable yield (<0.57 kg) increased as stocking density increased. However, marketable yields (≥0.57 kg) were not affected by density. Carryover fish in high-density ponds had a significantly lower (P < 0.05) mean weight at harvest, but mean stocker weight was not different across densities. Economic analysis found breakeven prices increased and net returns decreased with increased stocking density when sub-marketable fish were not considered as revenue. The study indicated the possibility that stockers compete with large carryover fish, particularly at higher densities. |
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Keywords: | channel catfish Ictalurus punctatus stockers production costs multiple-batch |
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