Stocking Density of the Pangasius Hypophthalmus Reared in Raceway System

Abstract

The objective was to evaluate the impact of stocking density on the productive and physiological parameters of Pangasius hypophthalmus throughout the production period. The experiment followed a completely randomized design with five treatments and four replications, resulting in a total of 20 experimental units. The densities tested were as follows: 30, 50, 70, 90, and 110 fish/m³, which corresponded to 15, 25, 35, 45, and 55 fish per box, respectively. The experimental period lasted 90 days. Stocking density did not influence feed conversion ratio, mortality, carcass yield, serum biochemical profile, or hematology. Body weight gain and feed intake responded linearly to the different densities. The limnological variables of temperature, pH, and dissolved oxygen were not affected, unlike nitrite (NO2), total ammonia (NH4+ + NH3), and non-ionized ammonia (NH3) levels, which rose linearly with increasing stocking density. In conclusion, it is advisable to consider stocking densities above 87 fish/m3 for the intensive cultivation of P. hypophthalmus in tropical climatic conditions.