Influence of Formulated Diet on Survival and Growth of Giant-snakehead, Channa marulius Reared in Pond Condition

Abstract

The fingerlings of giant-snakehead, Channa marulius were reared for 12-months in a cement tank on formulated diet to explore the possibility of their growth. The mortality was found higher during initial months but gradually stopped when the fish attained length and weight of over 15.10 ± 0.31 cm and 26.96 ± 1.30 g respectively. The cause of mortality was mainly corroborated with cannibalistic nature of the fish, leading to development of shooters which were found in higher numbers in the smaller size groups. Regular grading of shooters completely stopped their further production. The growth in terms of net biomass gain and SGR was highest during summer period, whereas it was negligible in winter. A strong correlation existed between weight and length relationship during entire culture period. Fulton’s condition index was found size and season dependent. The smaller fishes observed negative exponent values; whereas larger sized were positive. The study suggests that this commercially important fish could be cultured on formulated diet when shooters are graded out at regular intervals in small size groups only.