Parameterization and calibration of a model to simulate effects of feeding level and feed composition on growth of Oreochromis niloticus (L.) and Oncorhynchus mykiss (Walbaum)

A dynamic model to simulate growth of the African catfish. Clarias gariepinus (Burchell), was parameterized and calibrated for Nile tilapia. Oreochromis niloticus (L.), and rainbow trout, Oncorhynchus mykiss (Walbaum). The model predicts fish weight and fat percentage from the amount and composition of the feed and water temperature. The major factor determining the efficiency of feed conversion is the proportion of energy provided by protein oxidation, which is positively related to the protein feeding level and the protein/energy ratio of the feed. The model predicted fresh weight of the herbivorous Oreochromis niloticus in independent experimental data with a mean deviation of -2.1% (range -23% to +37%) of observed values (fish weights 10-40 g), For the carnivorous Oncorhynchus mykiss, this value was 4.8% (range -21% to +24%, 50-800 g), Options for further improvement of the model are discussed. We conclude that the structure of the model applies to a broad range of fish species and feeding schedules, provided that both feed and fish are characterized by a set of specific parameters.