Page 284 - Agriculture_Form_Three

Agriculture for Secondary Schools

on the surface until consumed, hence, it is easier to monitor the fish and track their
growth. Proper size of pellets has to be used for fish at each life stage. If the pellets
are too big, the fish cannot eat them since fish swallow feed as a whole. If the pellets
are too small, the fish require much effort to eat enough and this will decrease the
growth rate.

(b) Use of fresh and high-quality feed
To guarantee optimal growth rate, survival and health of the farmed species; only
fresh and high-quality feed should be used. As feed cost represents the largest part
of production costs, farmers should formulate or buy the appropriate feed for the
fish species. Where possible, use of high-quality commercial feeds and buying
directly from the feed mill or trusted dealers is advisable. Alternatively, feed can be
formulated in the farm under the advice of an extension worker or other agricultural
experts.

(c) Consistency and regularity in feeding fish
The biological rhythm of fish can be adapted to their feeding time. This biological
rhythm is important for many physiological processes, and, if hindered, it could
reduce the production efficiency of the fish. Therefore, feeding times should be
consistent every day. The number of times feed should be distributed per day varies
according to fish size. Small fish up to 50 gm per fingerling should be fed 3 - 4 times
per day while large fish can be fed only 1 or 2 times per day, taking into account that
the total amount offered should not exceed the calculated daily feeding rate for each
pond. It is advisable to feed fish according to their weight and length. Fish should
be fed from 08:00 to 10:00 hours in the morning and 16:30 to 18:30 hours in the
evening. Preferably, fish have to be fed daily at one corner of the pond.

(d) Use of feeding methods that reduce stress and environmental impact
Farmers should follow the instructions of the manufacturer when using the feeds.
Feeding practices should ensure maintenance of water quality. Do not overfeed
because uneaten feed will go to waste and decrease the water quality. Insufficient
feeding will lead to poor growth. When using floating feeds, a floating hose ring or
pipes can be used to contain the feed and stop it floating away to the pond margins
where it attracts birds and it can be harder for the fish to consume.
(e) Feeding the right amount of feeds
Feeding rates should be adjusted according to fish body weight. Fish should neither
be overfed (no pellets should be left uneaten) nor underfed. Sampling should be
carried out to calculate the right feed amount. Fingerlings should be fed at 10 - 15%
of their body weight while grown and adult fish should be fed at 5% of their body
weight. In the absence of a weighing scale, it is hard to calculate feeding quantities.

Student’s Book Form Twos Book Form Three
Student’
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AGRICULTURE FORM 3 9.11.2022.indd 273 10/01/2025 12:32