Impact of Water Quality on the Growth Performance of Clarias gariepinus in Fish Farms within Fako Division, Cameroon

Abstract

Aquaculture in South-West Cameroon has evolved although not exponentially due to a qualified workforce. The problem of water quality in fish farms that could be associated with poor feeding and water quality management impacts the life of aquatic animals. Fish needs a healthy environment for its optimal growth and development (case study of Catfish). The objective of this studied was to determine the impact of water quality on the growth performance of Clarias gariepinus in some fish farms within Fako Division-South West Region of Cameroon. Material and methods: The method used in this research topic is descriptive, with 4 different localities, namely IRAD Batoke (A), Bakingili (B), Cornelius Fish Center (C) and Oumarou fish farm (D) Mile 2 Limbe. Collection of physicochemical and biological data was conducted from the period of March 8th to May 15th 2023 in Fako Division. Results: The results revealed highest mean temperature value (28.22±0.94ºC) in IRAD Batoke broodstocks tanks while Cornelius fish Center had the highest mean pH, electrical conductivity and total dissolved solid with values of 8.16±1.25; 0.84±0.35 ms/cm; and 0.38±1.8ppt in the broodstocks tanks and table fish tanks. The highest dissolved oxygen (<8mg/l); highest nitrite level (<0.025 mg/l) and highest Ammonium (<0.05 mg/l) were noted in three localities except the Bakingili locality. The physicochemical parameters of water had no negative impacts on the growth performance of this species. Conclusion: The results of physicochemical parameters such as water temperature, pH, and electrical conductivity, total dissolved solid, NH4, NO2, O2 obtained during the study experienced a relative variation and were very suitable for the growth and development of Clarias gariepinus.