Pond Water depth influence upon growth performances, feed utilization and Survival of Population traits of Clarias batrachus (Linnaeus, 1758)
Keywords:
Clarias batrachus, larval rearing, growth performance, pond culture, seed productionAbstract
The current research explored how varying water depths impact the growth, feed efficiency, and survival of Clarias batrachus (Linnaeus, 1758) larvae in earthen ponds located in Siwan district, Bihar. Three water-depth levels were tested: T1 (12 cm), T2 (16 cm), and T3 (20 cm) across two experimental ponds. The study assessed growth metrics such as length increase, weight increase, percentage weight increase, specific growth rate (SGR), feed conversion ratio (FCR), feed efficiency ratio (FER), protein efficiency ratio (PER), condition factor (K), and survival rate. Findings indicated that water depth had a significant impact on larval growth and survival. In the first pond, T1 resulted in the greatest length increase (19.80 mm), weight increase (101.12 mg), percentage weight increase (315.60%), SGR (4.74), PER (8.04), and survival rate (60.00%). Similarly, in the second pond, T1 achieved the highest length increase (26.40 mm), weight increase (134.64 mg), percentage weight increase (423.65%), SGR (6.32), PER (10.72), and survival rate (81.24%). Although initial data suggested a slightly higher average length at a 16 cm depth, overall growth and survival were better at a 12 cm depth. Positive correlations were observed in length–weight relationships across all treatments, and Fulton’s condition factor rose with larval growth and feeding activity. Statistical analysis showed significant differences (p<0.05) among treatments in terms of weight gain, feed utilization metrics, growth parameters, and survival. The results suggest that shallower water depth improves feeding efficiency, growth, and survival of C. batrachus larvae in pond culture. Thus, maintaining a water depth of around 12 cm during larval rearing is advised to enhance seed production and nursery management for this economically valuable catfish species.
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