Authors: O.T. Agbebi, A.O. Adebambo, M.O. Ozoje, S.O. Olufeagba, O.G Omitogun
Nigerian Journal Genetics 23/24 (2010) 128-139
Abstract
Triploidy was induced in Heterobranchus bidorsalis by subjecting fertilized eggs to cold shock treatment
at 500C for 40 minutes, Diploid and triploid juveniles of mean weight: 21,81g and 28.20g respectively were stocked into 2 x 2 x 1.2m3 outdoor concrete tanks. The treatments (made up of diploid and triploid strains) were in triplicates and were fed with a die containing 45% crude protein. All fish were weighed bi-weekly. At three months, triploid H. bidorsalis grew to mean weight of 77.28g compared with 51.50g in diploids. The growth was significantly different (p<0.05). At nine months of age the triploids (mean weight 860g) were significantly heavier than the diploids (mean weight 712g). Triploids had smaller gonads with altered histology. Dietary requirements showed that the triploids converted feed efficiently (FCR=1.92) than the diploid (FCR=2.15) and may provide greater profits in commercial catfish culture than diploids.