Effect of Protein Level and Feeding Frequency on Growth and Body Composition of Cage-Reared Channel Catfish

Abstract

Abstract Channel catfish (Ictalurus punctatus) fingerlings were stocked in eight 1.25-m3 floating cages at densities of 320 fish/m3 and fed to satiety once or twice daily for 105 d with diets containing either 34 or 38% protein. Experimental diets were formulated by a commercial feed mill with recommended levels of essential amino acids, vitamins, and minerals. Fish fed a diet containing 38% protein had significantly (P 0.05) were found when body composition was analyzed in relation to dietary protein level, feeding frequency, and their interaction. These data indicate that channel catfish reared in cages may require a diet with a hi...