Standardization of Clarias gariepinus fingerlings using age, weight and length estimations.

Abstract

A study was conducted to estimate the range of weight / length as well as age at which a Clarias gariepinus fish can be said to be a standard fingerling. Artificial breeding was conducted using male and female brooders weighing 2.7Kg and 2.3Kg respectively. Offspring were managed through eight weeks in both indoor (glass aquarium) and outdoor (concrete tanks) facilities. Data on weight and length were obtained and recorded weekly. Physico-chemical properties of the water were also monitored and recorded. The study revealed that the age at which a Clarias gariepinus fish can be said to be a standard fingerling is after six weeks while the range of weight and length recorded were from 4.00 - 6.5g and 6.50 - 10.00cm respectively. The study recommends that hatchery operators raise Clarias gariepinus for a minimum of six weeks before selling to fish farmers – to reduce mortalities recorded at the fish farms and its multiplier effects on existing and intending fish farmers