Many are engaged in catfish farming across the world since catfish are strong and adaptable to different water conditions, and catfish farming is a highly profitable venture. It is very beneficial to small farmers and large-scale commercial farmers as well. If you are a new entrepreneur who is looking to step into catfish farming, this guide is going to cover the most straightforward aspects to help you with the particular species, nutrition, pond construction, harvesting and other crucial aspects.
Setting Up the Pond
Your pond is the centre of your catfish farming business. There are various ways to farm catfish in earthen ponds, concrete tanks, or even large plastic containers; the fundamentals are quite similar.
The earthen pond is the preferred option for rural farmers as it is easily constructed and offers the fish a more natural habitat. On the other end of the spectrum, urban farmers or farmers with limited space tend to gravitate towards concrete ponds or more easily portable concrete tanks. They can be easily washed and dirtied, serviced, and monitored, making them preferred options for small-scale farming.
Regardless of the type of pond, water management is the single most important factor in catfish farming. It should be free from common contaminants like chlorine, and the water should be fresh and clean. Stagnant or muddy waters should be avoided as they can be detrimental to the fish. The optimal depth for ponds is from 3 to 4 feet. At this depth, the fish can swim comfortably, and the water temperature is optimal.
Before introducing the fish, the pond should first be filled with water and the marker floats for a few days. The stagnation supports oxygen balance while also supporting the growth of advantageous microorganisms that foster beneficial ecosystems for the catfish.
Stocking Your Pond
Add fingerlings to your new pond; these are catfish fingerlings that are about 3 to 5 inches long. When buying, be sure that the fingerlings are active, injury-free, and sold from reputable hatcheries. This is very important since having active fingerlings means an assurance for guaranteed growth and lower chances of diseases.
The amount of fish is determined by the space your pond has. In smaller ponds, it is advisable to stock at least 5 to 10 fish per square meter of the pond. Note that you should not overcrowd your pond either. This raises the chances of the fish stock becoming unhealthy and weak since growth will be stunted, and the overall pond condition will suffer.
Before releasing the fingerlings, acclimate them to the pond water by floating their bag on the pond for about 15 to 20 minutes. This is to avoid shock due to sudden temperature of the water or pH differences.
Feeding and Nutrition
Like all fish, catfish also need a diet rich in protein to encourage rapid growth. Protein-rich catfish feeds are convenient since they fulfil a catfish’s nutritional needs. To maximise the growth of your catfish, it is recommended to feed your fish protein-rich catfish feed.
Dosing Feed in the right quantities is crucial. Feed your fish 2-3 times a day for Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner. Overfeeding is a common mistake and must be avoided at all costs. Rotting fish food is the main cause of murky water. If fish are well fed, they will exhibit different behaviour and stop coming up for food.
For local flow, which one is the option is a mixture of maize bran, fish waste, or soybean meal to reduce contract?
Water Quality Management
Finнес and gills both need healthy water to be able to thrive. Even though catfish are described as hardy, it is imperative to have water full of dissolved oxygen and clean. If the pond water is murky, it is time for an obligatory water change, and fish in the pond should be spared a little water.
An aerator can be used to dissolve oxygen in water, strictly needed for dense fish populations. To receive constant water quality, a replacement of approximately 20-30% of the pond water must be completed.
Furthermore, feed and dead fish should be removed immediately, as they contribute to ammonia production, which can lead to diseases.
Harvesting Your Catfish
Catfish are ready to be harvested after five to six months of growing. Most catfish reach a market size of one to one and a half kilograms.
Hooking the nets and yanking the cord to drench the pond, weathervanes landed and caught fish in the nets. The fish are to be handled lightly, and bruised fishes lower the price we can sell them for. Depending on the market we want to reach, we can sell the fish fresh, or even frozen, or even smoked.
The process of smoking catfish is a preferred method since the catfish is used to and liked, having a longer lifespan and an extended, delicious taste.
Conclusion
Catfish is cheap and nutritious, which is why global demand is on the rise. It’s easy and capable catfish farming can be very profitable with the right management. Starting small is the best approach and can let you learn the ropes before expanding.
Farming that record growth, monitoring water quality, along with consistent feeding, also reaps the benefits. It makes profit very steady.
FAQs
1. How long does it take to grow catfish to market size?
Markey-size catfish need approximately 5 to 6 months to fully mature. Good feeding and proper water conditions need to be maintained.
2. What is the best feed for catfish?
The top quality feeder would be commercial pellets with high protein content. Although soybean and maize bran can be offered as local alternatives.
3. Can catfish be farmed in tanks?
Yes, catfish can. As long as the water quality is maintained in plastic and concrete tanks.
4. What causes catfish diseases?
The lack of hygiene, an overcrowded area, and poor quality water can lead to disease outbreaks.
5. Is catfish farming profitable?
Definitely. Particularly to the lower-scale farmers. It is one of the most profitable options to pursue in aquaculture farming.
