Optimum stocking density of stinging catfish (Heteropneustes fossilis) based carp polyculture in homestead ponds in a drought prone area of Bangladesh

Abstract

An experiment was conducted during July to December, 2020 to optimize the stocking density of Heteropneustes fossilis while farming with carps (Rohu, Labeo rohita; catla, Catla catla; and silver carp, Hypophthalmichthys molitrix) in homestead ponds of Tanore upazila (sub district) in Rajshahi district, Bangladesh. Three different stocking densities of stinging catfish were tested under three treatments such as T1:98800 fish/ha; T2:123500 fish/ha; and T3:148200 fish/ha in polyculture ponds stocked with similar density (988 fishes/ha) of carps (L. rohita 25%, C.  catla 25% and H. molitrix 50%). Stinging catfish was fed with 35% protein content diet. Water quality was monitored monthly and found within acceptable range for fish culture. Treatment   T2 varied significantly (P<0.05) for total fish yield, net return and cost benefit ratio.