GROWTH AND SURVIVAL RATE OF AFRICAN CATFISH(CLARIAS GARIEPINUS) FRY FED WITH ARTEMIS AND UNCONVENTIONAL DIETS ( BLOOD MEAL AND CRAYFISH CHAFF)

The rising demand for Clarias gariepinus (African catfish) in aquaculture has necessitated the development of cost-effective and nutritionally balanced feed formulations to optimize growth and survival rates. This study evaluated the growth performance and survival of Clarias gariepinus fry fed six different diets, including Artemia, blood meal, crayfish chaff, and their combinations, over an eight-week period. A total of 360 fry were randomly distributed into 18 tanks (20 fry per tank) and fed the experimental diets in triplicate. Proximate analysis of the feeds was conducted to determine protein, carbohydrate, lipid, fiber, and moisture content, while weight gain and survival rates were monitored weekly. The results showed that fry fed with a combination of Artemia and blood meal exhibited the best growth performance, reaching an average weight of 2.3406g by Week 8, with a feed conversion ratio (FCR) that indicated high feed efficiency. Fry fed with blood meal alone achieved the highest weight gain (2.4758g), but survival rates were significantly lower (11.67%) compared to other diets. Artemia alone supported the highest survival rate (45%), highlighting its digestibility and balanced nutrient profile. Crayfish chaff, with its high fiber content, resulted in the lowest growth (1.2706g) and survival rates (13.33%), indicating poor nutrient absorption.