Survival Rate and Growth Performance of Tilapia in Different Culture Systems

Abstract

This study aimed to evaluate the survival rate and growth performance of tilapia cultured under different aquaculture systems, namely earthen ponds, biofloc systems, and recirculating aquaculture systems (RAS). The experiment was conducted for 60 days using juvenile tilapia with similar initial weights and stocking densities. Growth parameters observed included final body weight, weight gain, and specific growth rate, while survival rate was calculated based on the number of fish that remained alive at the end of the culture period.The results showed that tilapia reared in the biofloc system achieved the highest survival rate and growth performance, followed by those cultured in the RAS system, while fish reared in earthen ponds showed the lowest values. The superior performance in the biofloc system was attributed to improved water quality and the presence of microbial flocs that served as an additional natural food source. The RAS system also provided stable water conditions that supported good growth, although it required higher operational and technical inputs. These findings indicate that biofloc technology and RAS offer more efficient and sustainable alternatives to conventional pond culture for improving tilapia productivity. The adoption of advanced culture systems can enhance fish growth, increase survival rates, and contribute to more environmentally friendly aquaculture practices.