Abstract:
This study evaluated the effect of stocking density and diet on the growth and survival of Labeo
victorianus fish. Stocking densities, diet and survival rates were studied under 27 hapas, 1.5m2
wide and1m deep at the National Aquaculture Research and Development training center,
Sagana in Kenya. Juveniles averaging 15g were stocked at 8/m2
, 16/m2
and 24/m2
then reared for
5 months. The juveniles were fed on three diets; natural feed and formulated diet with refined
30% and 25% crude protein ad libitum daily. The mortalities, daily weight and length gains, and
water quality were monitored throughout the research period. The results showed that 8/m2
stocking densities had the best survival (100%) and the highest weight (11.2-20.0 g) and length
(3.5-4.4 cm) gains by the fish. There was a significant effect of dietary protein on growth
performance of the reared fish (180% weight gain compared to the control). However, weight
gains at 25% and 30% protein levels were not significantly different (P>0.05). The results
suggested that stocking density and diets are critical on growth performance and survival of
juvenile L. victorianus. This study has particular significance with regards to fish husbandry in
terms of survival and production efficiency.
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