Growth, Feed Utilization And Survival Of Clarias Gariepinus Reared In Earthen Ponds Treated With Hydrated Lime And Calcium Carbide Lime

ABSTRACT

Growth, feed utilization and survival of African catfish reared in earthen ponds using hydrated lime and calcium carbide lime as the liming materials were studied for 24 weeks. Three treatments- hydrated lime ponds, calcium carbide lime ponds and control ponds were used in two replicates. Each pond was stocked with 300 fingerlings at an average weight of 26g. Fish were fed at 4% body weight. The feed was adjusted bi-weekly with increase in body weight. Growth parameters and feed utilization were estimated. Some water quality parameters-dissolved oxygen, pH, temperature, alkalinity, hardness, nitrate, nitrite and ammonia were monitored bi-weekly using standard analytical procedures. There was no significant difference (p>0.05) in the levels of ammonia and temperature of the water among the treatments but significant difference (p< 0.05). The low growth, feed utilization and survival rate obtained in hydrated lime ponds may be attributed to the heavy metal contents of the lime. The best growth and feed utilization values were obtained for fish in the control ponds. However, values obtained for fish in the calcium carbide lime ponds were satisfactory. From this study, calcium carbide lime can be recommended for use by fish farmers.