Growth of five Asian red tilapia strains in saline environments

Abstract

Growth of five Asian red tilapia strains (BFS, NIFI, FAC, PF and HL) were evaluated in brackish and seawater. Eight-week-old juveniles from the five test strains were size-matched with similarly aged Oreochromis mossambicus which served as internal reference. Fish were stocked at a ratio of 15 test:15 reference in 100-l tanks supported by a recirculating system. Commercial feed was given twice daily at 10-20% of the fish biomass. Growth, measured from length and weight increment at 10 weeks, was recorded. Statistical analyses on mean specific growth rates showed significant differences among the strains reared in seawater. The Philippine strain PF grew best in seawater while the Thai strain NIFI performed well in brackishwater. In the Philippines, red tilapias are farmed in intensive freshwater culture systems by few aquaculturists. Results of this study indicate that some Asian strains can be developed for use in more sustainable brackish and seawater culture systems.