Fish-larval rearing: the effect of pure /mixed zooplankton and artificial diet on the growth and survival of <i>Clarias anguillaris</i> (Linnaeus, 1758) larvae

Abstract

The growth, survival and specific growth rate (SGR) of the larvae of Clarias anguillaris fed live zooplankton feed (pure Moina micrura and mixed zooplankton) and 40% crude protein dry artificial diet, were determined. Growth and survival were not significantly different (P > 0.05) for the first six weeks of culture for larvae fed pure Moina or mixed zooplankton. Specific growth rate was also similar in both cultures. However, when live feed was replaced with dry artificial diet as from the 7th week of culture, growth and survival were significantly higher (P < 0.05) for treatments that continued to depend on live zooplankton feed. Results of this study indicate that larval fish can be reared indoors with live zooplankton up until the sixth and even the 11th week without significant mortality.


Key words: Clarias anguillaris, larval rearing, live zooplankton, nutrition


Journal of Aquatic Sciences Vol.17(1) 2002: 69-73