Effects of the Shape of Culture Tanks on Production of the African Catfish Clarias Gariepinus Juveniles

Abstract

An 84-day laboratory experiment was conducted to determine the effects of different tank sections on production of the African catfish Clarias gariepinus juveniles of average weight (10.65 ± 0.07g). Three culture tank shapes (circular, rectangular and square) made of plastic material, having the same surface area and volume were used. The fish were fed 45% CP floating pellets at 3% body weight twice daily throughout the experimental period. Weight gain, percentage weight gain, feed conversion ratio, specific growth rate, profit index and gross profit were used to determine growth and cost of production. There was no significant difference (P > 0.05) in growth parameters of the fish in all the treatments. However, the highest weight gain, specific growth rate, profit index and gross profit were obtained in circular tank compared to other tank shapes. Similarly, circular tank gave the least cost of production and has many advantages for fish culture compared to other shapes.