Precision Feeding Tables: Calibrating Feeding Rates to Water Temperature and Biomass Sampling
Why Static Feeding Schedules Fail
Catfish are poikilotherms: their metabolic rate rises and falls with water temperature. Furthermore, their body weight doubles every 2 to 3 weeks during the early grow-out phase.
Precision Feeding by Body Weight Percentage
- Fingerlings (5g–20g): Feed at 5.0% to 6.0% of total pond biomass daily, divided into 3 to 4 feedings.
- Juveniles (25g–150g): Feed at 3.5% to 4.5% of biomass daily, split into 2 feedings.
- Table Size (200g–1.2kg+): Feed at 1.8% to 2.5% of biomass daily, once or twice daily.
The Temperature Adjustment Factor
- Water Temperature 28°C–30°C: 100% of calculated feed allowance.
- Water Temperature 32°C+: Reduce feed by 30% (DO is reduced, metabolic stress high).
- Water Temperature < 23°C (Harmattan morning): Reduce feed by 50% (digestion slows drastically).
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