ARS | Publication request: Maximizing Channel Catfish Production

Submitted to: Global Aquaculture Advocate
Publication Type: Trade Journal
Publication Acceptance Date: June 16, 2008
Publication Date: July 1, 2008
Citation: Torrans, E.L. 2008. Maximizing Channel Catfish Production - Active Management Raises Yields. Global Aquaculture Advocate. 11(4):45-47.

Technical Abstract: Average farm-wide catfish production rates in the U.S. range from approximately two to six tons per acre. While it is understood that net production does not necessarily equate to net profits, the industry trend has been toward intensifying production. This article discusses some of the management practices that are utilized by farmers to increase production rates. Higher stocking, aeration, and feeding rates are the basis of increased production. However, a commercial catfish pond is a production process that requires timely inputs to achieve maximum output. Since the biological processes differ greatly between ponds (production units), every pond needs to be treated individually to maximize output. Off-flavor and disease monitoring and treatments, stocking and harvesting, and most routine management activities need to be scheduled and applied to individual ponds as needed, when needed. As new recommendations are developed by research, these need to be incorporated as appropriate into the farm’s management plan.