Growth, survival and nutrient utilization of the brackish water catfish (Chrysicthys walkeri) fry as affected by dietary protein and energy levels

Abstract

The effect of varying dietary protein and calorie levels on the growth, survival and nutrient utilization of 540 brackish water catfish (Chrysicthys walkeri) fry average liveweight of 0.14g was investigated in a 3x3 factorial experiment with 3 calorie levels ( 2800, 3000 and 3200 Kcal ME/Kg diet) and 3 levels of crude protein (36%, 39% and 42%) giving a total of 9 diets, fed to the fish for a period of 56 days. Mean weight gain, specific growth rate, feed conversion ratio, survival and protein productive value were significantly higher (P<0.05) in fish fed diet 6 (3000 Kcal ME/Kg and 42% crude protein) when compared to other diets. Weight gain was highest in diet 6 with a value of 0.64g and lowest (significantly P<0.05) with a value of 71.67% and lowest in diet 1 (2800Kcal ME/Kg and 36% crude protein) with a value of 53.34%, while protein productive value was higher in diet 6 (78.40) and lowest in diet (2800Kcal ME/Kg, 39% crude protein) with a value of value of 64.33%. Thus, C. walkeri for survived and performed best when fed on 42% crude protein and 3000Kcal ME/kg diet.