Varathanathan K1*, Ganeshwaranathan A2, Piratheepan S1, Loganathan T3
1Department of Animal Science, Faculty of
Agriculture, University of Jaffna
2Aquaculture Development Center, Iranaimadu, Kilinochchi
3Department of Radiography/ Radiotherapy, Faculty of Allied Health Sciences, University of
Peradeniya
Abstract
The rapid expansion of tilapia aquaculture necessitates feeding strategies that enhance growth while minimizing
environmental impacts. This study investigated the effects of three feeding rations 3%, 8%, and 12% of body weight
per day on growth performance, feed utilization, survival, and water quality in Genetically Improved Farmed Tilapia
(GIFT) fingerlings cultured in northern Sri Lanka. A total of 3000 fingerlings (initial mean weight: 30.62 ± 0.23 g)
were randomly allocated into 12 cement tanks (37 m²; stocking density: 250 fish/tank) in a completely randomized
design with four replicates per treatment. Fish were fed a commercial diet (30% crude protein) thrice daily over
56 days. Weekly measurements included growth parameters, feed conversion ratio (FCR), survival, and key water quality
indicators. Significant differences (p <0.05) were observed in growth and FCR across treatments. The 8% ration
produced the highest performance, with a final mean weight of 338.07 ± 12.4 g and length of 28.01 ± 0.8 cm,
outperforming both the 3% (146.60 ± 8.2 g; 16.38 ± 0.5 cm) and 12% (332.27 ± 10.6 g; 27.85 ± 0.7 cm) rations.
While the 3% ration had the best FCR (0.25 ± 0.02), its low growth made it economically unviable. The 8% ration
achieved a balanced outcome (FCR: 0.43 ± 0.03). Survival rates were high (92–96%) with no significant variation
among treatments. Water quality remained within acceptable limits, although higher rations elevated total ammonia
nitrogen and total dissolved solids significantly (p <0.01). Overall, feeding GIFT fingerlings at 8% body weight/day
offers optimal growth and efficiency without compromising water quality or survival. These findings support
sustainable intensification of tilapia culture, particularly in resource-limited tropical regions. Further research
should assess economic feasibility in larger-scale production systems.
Keywords: Aquaculture, Feed conversion ratio, Fingerling, Nutrient management, Sustainable
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