Channel Catfish Culture In Midwestern Plastic-Lined And Earthen Ponds
Len M. Kring, Department of Natural Resource Ecology and Management, 124 Science II, Iowa State University, Ames, IA 50011-322; (515) 294-9716; FAX (515) 294-7874; Chcat1@iastate.edu
Jay B. Rudacille, Rathbun Fish Hatchery, RR #2, Box 298, Moravia, IA 52571
David R Walljasper, Rathbun Fish Hatchery, RR #2, Box 298, Moravia, IA 52571
Joseph E. Morris, Department of Natural Resource Ecology and Management, 124 Science II, Iowa State University, Ames, IA 50011-3221
In 2000, 10 0.4-ha plastic-lined ponds were constructed at the Iowa Department of Natural Resources hatchery located at Moravia, IA. The goal has been to produce 18-20 cm channel catfish (Ictalurus punctatus) fingerlings by early fall using 5-8 cm fingerlings stocked in June. The variable fish survival and growth were the impetus to pursue a study on the effect of fish diets upon water quality and fish health. In 2003, ponds were divided into two treatments, 75,000 and 112,000 fish per ha; fish were fed 36-45% protein diets. We observed elevated total ammonia nitrogen (TAN), phosphorus, pH, and chlorophyll a levels in these ponds. The relatively high average survival, 86%, was obtained by adjusting feed schedules in accordance to water quality parameters; however, the goal of producing an 18-20 cm fish was not reached in either treatment. In 2004, six 0.08-ha new earthen ponds, near Iowa State University campus, and six 0.04-ha plastic-lined ponds will be utilized along with the 10 0.4-ha plastic-lined ponds at Rathbun Hatchery. The six 0.08-ha earthen ponds and the 6 0.04-ha plastic-lined ponds were stocked at a rate of 38,000 per ha and divided into two treatments, 28% protein diet or 35% protein diet. Fish in the 10 0.4 ha plastic-lined ponds will be fed a 35% protein diet and divided into two treatments, 38,000 and 75,000 fish per ha. The roles of stocking density, diet formulation and pond type will be addressed in this study.