Stocking density and water quality effect on growth performance of Nile tilapia raised in water ponds in Dodoma City, Tanzania

Abstract

Pond fertilization and stocking density consideration are two management practices used in pond fish farming to increase productivity. This study aimed to fill a knowledge gap in Dodoma by examining how different types of manure used for fertilization affect the water quality of ponds, as well as the effects of stocking density on the growth performance of Nile Tilapia. The effects of stocking density at 15, 30, and 100 individuals on the growth performance of tilapia fish (Oreochromis niloticus) in terms of weight and length gain were studied for one month (30 days). From day zero commercial powder feeds were applied at a rate of 9% of body weight. The pH, dissolved oxygen, and temperature of water fertilized with chicken and cow manure were all measured. The fourth week showed the best growth performance, with a length of 6.52±0.28cm and a weight of 3.43±0.36g at the large stocking density of 100 individuals per pond. Ponds fertilized with chicken manure had a significant effect in dissolved oxygen (10-14.20 mg/l) and pH (9.1-9.8) (p<0.05). Whereas, the more dissolved oxygen revealed a significant growth in fish in terms of weight (p=0.01). According to the findings of this study, low density and sufficient oxygen improved the fish growth performance. When applying manure for fertilization, it is critical to consider the different types of manure and how they affect water characteristics.