Comparative evaluation of water quality parameters and growth performance of sex-reversed Nile tilapia (Oreochromis niloticus) raised in two different climatic conditions in Tanzania

Abstract

A study was done to compare water quality parameters, growth and production performance of Sexreversed Nile tilapia (Oreochromis niloticus) cultured in two districts of Tanzania, which experience different climatic conditions (cold and moderately warm). Fingerlings (1.00 g average weight) were stocked in earthen ponds (2 fish/m3), then raised for six months. Fish were fed twice daily and ponds were inorganically fertilized fortnightly. Measurements of water quality parameters and fish growth parameters (weight, length and width) were done biweekly. The results revealed significant differences on various water quality parameters; including temperature, salinity, conductivity and alkalinity between the two districts (p≤0.05). Mean growth rate, specific growth rate, mean final weight, estimated annual yield and Food Conversion Ratio were significant better for fish grown in warm than those in cold climate (p≤0.05). It is concluded that, fish growth and water quality parameters are better in warm than cold condition.