ABSTRACT

This study evaluated the growth performance of Clarias gariepinus induced by three different feeds. One hundred fifty juveniles of C. gariepinus each measuring 19.97±3.89g in weight and 6.31±0.86cm in length were randomly distributed into three concrete tanks labelled 1, 2 and 3 with each replicated thrice. The three feeds used were identified as feed-1, feed-2, and feed-3. The fish in tanks 1, 2, 3 and their replicates were fed feeds-1, 2 and 3 respectively. During the period of study, the water quality parameters (Temperature: 24.46±0.40^oC, Dissolved Oxygen: 3.76±0.18mgl^-1, pH: 6.99±0.46, Electrical Conductivity: 113.93±3.55) remained within suitable ranges for fish growth. The maximum mean weight gain (16.17±12.69g) was recorded in feed-1, while feed-2 induced the lowest mean weight gain (15.86±12.53). The maximum specific growth rate (0.73±0.24) was also in feed-1, while feed-3 gave the lowest specific growth rate (0.72±0.14). There was a significant difference (p=0.01) in feed conversion ratio among feeds. Although there was statistically no significant difference in the mean weight gain among the three feeds. The lower feed conversion ratio of feed-1 signifies a better utilization of feed-1 than feed- 2 and feed-3. The increase in the mean weight of C. gariepinus gained with 45% crude protein (feed-1). The lower feed conversion ratio and the non-significant growth parameters are suggestive that feeds with similar proximate composition as feed-1 will yield optimal fish growth and likely cause fish to attain table size within a short time. The present study noted that feed-1 with 45% crude protein-induced a relatively higher fish weight than feed-2 and feed-3 with over 50% crude protein. The feed-1 lower feed conversion ratio presupposes it as a better feed for optimal fish growth and rapid attainment of table size within a short time than feed-2 and feed-3.