Tilapia (T. nilotica) and Azolla (A. pinnata) cage farming in Laguna Lake

Abstract

Four batches of Azolla were grown in cages in Laguna lake between 1981 to 1983. Percent increase in weight per day ranged from 35% (Feb. 24 - March 2, 1981) to 5% (May 8 - May 12, 1983.) Best growth was attained during the cold months.

Acceptability of Azolla as supplemental feed for tilapia was determined in four experiments conducted between 1981-1984. The stocking densities varied in the four experiments: 25/m², 50/m², 100/m² and 150/m². All the results showed increase in mean weight of tilapia fed with fresh Azolla over the unfed control. Statistical analysis showed significantly high (p<0.05) mean weights of tilapia fed with Azolla in two experiments only.