How to Reduce Mortality and Grow Big Fish
Table of Contents
Introduction
Every farmer wants strong, healthy fish that grow fast and sell for good profit. Yet, many Nigerian farmers lose money due to high mortality and poor growth. With the right methods, you can reduce losses, keep fish healthy, and harvest larger fish. If you missed our feeding schedule guide, check it first, because feed timing is one of the secrets to success.
Major Causes of Mortality
- Poor water quality: Dirty or low-oxygen water is the number one killer of catfish. Learn more in our water quality management guide.
- Overfeeding: Extra feed rots in the pond and reduces oxygen.
- High stocking density: Too many fish in a pond increases stress and disease.
- Poor handling: Rough handling during transfer or harvest injures fish and causes death.
- Bad seed (fingerlings): Weak or unhealthy stock leads to high mortality from the start.
Steps to Reduce Mortality
- Buy quality fingerlings:
Best Practices to Keep Catfish Healthy and Disease-Free
Table of Contents
Introduction
Reducing mortality in catfish farming is not only about feeding well; it’s also about keeping fish healthy and preventing diseases. Healthy fish eat more, grow faster, and fetch better prices at market. If you haven’t read our article on how to reduce mortality and grow big fish, check it first, then use this guide for deeper health tips.
Daily Health Practices
- Observe feeding: A sudden drop in feeding appetite signals stress or disease.
- Check water: Clear water with good oxygen helps fish remain active and healthy. See our water quality management guide.
- Remove dead fish quickly: This prevents spread of infection.
- Regular grading: Separating fish by size reduces bullying and injuries.
Common Catfish Diseases
These are some issues Nigerian catfish farmers face:
- Bacterial infections: Often caused by dirty ponds or injuries.
- Fungal infections: White patches on skin, usually in poor water conditions.
- Parasites: Can cause weight loss and high mortality if untreated.
- Stress-related deaths: From overcrowding, poor water, or rough handling.
How to Prevent Mortality
- Stock healthy fingerlings: Weak stock increases disease risk.
- Control stocking density: Avoid overloading ponds.
- Feed correctly: Follow a structured feeding schedule to build strong immunity.
- Disinfect ponds: Treat ponds before stocking to reduce pathogens.
- Use proper equipment: Aerators, nets, and feeders reduce stress. See our equipment guide.
Supporting Growth & Profit
Healthy fish grow faster. When mortality is low and fish reach bigger sizes, farmers earn more. The right harvest time is also important. Don’t wait too long, or costs will rise without matching profits. For details, read our harvesting and selling guide.
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