Calculating the Feed Cost: Raising 1000 Juvenile Catfish to Table Size
If you are considering starting a catfish business, you have come to the right place. With over 25 years of experience in catfish production, we have found it to be a profitable venture.
In order to succeed in this business, it is crucial to pay attention to certain tips and tricks. One of the key factors in catfish production is the feeding of the stock.
A significant portion, 70%, of the production cost is attributed to feed. Therefore, the careful and appropriate use of feed is essential for success
- Determine the Size for Sale
- Catfish Feed Varieties
- Feed Size Based on Fish Size
- Feeding 1000 Catfish in Nigeria
- Things to Consider - Cost of Juvenile Catfish
- Startup Expenses
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Determine the Size for Sale
Determining the size of the catfish ready for sale is an important step.
There are four sizes of fish typically sold by catfish farmers. Breeders sell fingerlings and juveniles to other farmers, while farmers sell either mid-size fish (500g) or full-size fish (1kg) to the general public. Today, we will specifically focus on fish farmers who raise their fish from 500g to 1kg.
Related: Fish Feed Composition
Catfish Feed Varieties
Catfish feed typically consists of pellet feed made from crude protein, fat, ash, crude fiber, rice, cassava, corn, and bran.
While most extruded catfish feeds float, some locally formulated ones may sink. The feed is commonly sold in 15kg bags, but smaller quantities are also available.
Content of Formulated Feed
Pellet feed
- Crude protein
- Fat
- Ash
- Crude fiber
- Rice
- Cassava
- Corn
- Bran.
Feed Size Based on Fish Size
The size of the fish determines the appropriate feed size. Pellet feed is available in various sizes ranging from 2mm to 10mm. Fingerlings require 2mm feed, juveniles need 4mm, and the size should be gradually increased as they grow.
Feeding 1000 Catfish in Nigeria
In Nigeria, catfish farming is widespread, but the cost of fish feed has risen significantly due to the high foreign exchange rate. For a pond with 1000 catfish, totaling 1000 kilograms after 6 months, approximately 35 bags of 15kg extruded catfish feed will be needed, costing around N250,000.
Some sources may suggest using 70 bags of feed, but based on our experience, 35 to 40 bags are sufficient. Feeding should be done once daily and carefully to avoid overfeeding or wastage.
Things to Consider - Cost of Juvenile Catfish
Before commencing your business, it is essential to stock your pond with catfish. This can be done by purchasing either fingerlings or juveniles. While fingerlings are more affordable, they require a longer time to grow to the desired size and necessitate experienced farmers to prevent any potential losses. As a beginner, it is advisable to invest in juvenile fish. The cost of one juvenile catfish ranges from N50 to N80.
Related: Maximum growth of catfish
Startup Expenses
Startup expenses are typically one-time costs, as once the necessary structures are in place, you will only need to perform basic maintenance.
These expenses include the purchase of a plastic pond or the conversion of a water tank into a pond. Alternatively, you may choose to construct a block pond based on your preferences.
A plastic pond with a capacity of 4000L costs approximately N120,000. For a stock of 1000 fish, you will require around two such ponds. Second-hand plastic ponds are available at half the price.
Additional cost considerations involve plumbing, the purchase of a pumping machine, a scale-weighing device, and large plastic bowls.
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