FEEDING IN CATFISH IN NIGERIA

Feeding High stocking densities require
nutritionally complete rations for
optimal growth. Most commercial
rations contain 28 to 36% crude
protein with the necessary
vitamins and minerals. Sinking or floating feeds can be used. Floating
feeds cost more but offer the
advantages of observation of fish
health and vigor and adjustment of
daily feeding rates to avoid
underfeeding or overfeeding. Generally, catfish should be fed
what they will consume in about 15
minutes. A more accurate
alternative during warm weather
months is to feed 3% of the total
fish body weight in the pond. Fish can be sampled periodically and an
estimate made of the total weight
of the fish in the pond. When fish
reach an average weight of ¾
pound, they should be fed about
2% of their body weight daily. Fish should be fed during the
winter months. Growth and
feeding slows during cold weather.
Fish not fed during the winter will
lose weight and are more
susceptible to diseases and parasites. When water
temperatures are below 55°F, feed
1% of their body weight every
other day. Feed 1% every day
when water temperatures are
between 56°F and 65°F. Sinking pellets should be used during the
winter.

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