Influence of Floating and Sinking Feeds and Fingerling Size on Channel Catfish Productions

A comparison was made with a floating and sinking ration of similar analysis produced by the same manufacturer. This study demonstrated an increase in catfish production when using the sinking ration. Moreover, the sinking feed produced fish of a larger average size, a better food conversion, and a smaller Ktl factor. Use of sinking feed represented a savings of approximately $54 to $72 per acre on the feed bill. Data were compared for the influence of fingerlings size at stocking (4.5, 6.5 and 8 inch) upon catfish production. The larger fingerlings experienced larger S-factors; however, the high percent of harvestable size justified using this size fish for one year's production.