Abstract:
Clarias Gariepinus is the most cultured fish species in Nigeria. The knowledge of the cultured
condition of the most economical fish species will increase the performance of the species.
This research determined the performance and behavioural characteristics of African Catfish
under different water temperature and photoperiods (Light/Dark, Total Light, and Total Dark).
In investigating the performance of catfish under varied temperature and photoperiod, eighteen
units of experiments were carried out. Ninety (90) juveniles weighing an average of 5.8g were
used. In each unit, 5 juveniles were placed in a water filled 50 litre container containing a
thermostat to regulate the water temperature. The eighteen units were divided into 3 batches of
six units each. The first batch of the experiment was placed in total dark environment for 24hrs
during the experimental period. The second and third batch of the experiment was placed in a
sealed room with the only source of light coming from a fluorescent white bulb. In each of the
batches, the water temperature in two units was regulated to 26 oC, another two units at 28 oC
and the last two units at 30 oC. Adequate power supply was provided throughout the entire
period of the experiment. The Juvenile in each unit were fed to satiation once a day with the feed
consumed measured. No death of the juveniles was recorded during the period of the experiment.
Feed consumed daily were recorded and the weight gained of juveniles were measured weekly.
Anova analysis was used to analysis the data collected. It was discovered that 30 oC water
temperature is the optimal water temperature for rearing catfish irrespective of photoperiod
(Total Dark, Total Light, and Light/Dark). At 30 oC water temperature, growth performance,
feed conversion ratio and feed consumption of juveniles is good when compared to other
juveniles reared at a lower water temperature (26 oC and 28 oC).However, at all water
temperature (26 oC, 28 oC, and 30 oC), juveniles raised under a complete Dark photoperiod had a
better feed conversion ratio, and lower aggression when compared with Juveniles raised under
other photoperiods. Therefore, Total dark photoperiod is the optimal photoperiod for rearing
catfish irrespective of temperature. Total dark photoperiod reduces the aggression and
locomotive movements of catfish. Long and continuous photoperiods stimulate feed efficiency
and enhance the growth in Catfish juveniles
