Evaluating the growth performance of native stream trout (Salmo trutta) in north firat under culture conditions

Abstract

In this study, stream trout (Salmo trutta), caught from the Northern Firat river basin in province of Erzurum were fed trout feed after a week long adaptation period. After 2 months adaptation period, they were fed commercial trout feed regularly for 3 month trial period. Individually tagged fish were categorized as small (20-50 g), medium (50-100 g) and big size (100-400 g). Growth performances of groups were compared according to this classification. The trial lasted end of the 3 months (91 days). The trial concluded that the group classified as big size had the highest specific growth rate with 0.31±0.210%. Groups classified as medium (0.10±0.170) and small size (0.19±0.180) had the lowest specific growth rate. The difference in specific growth rate was statistically significant (p<0.05) and in favor of the big size group. As a result, adaptation studies conducted on the culture of these types of trout conclude that fish weighing >100 g should be cultured as breeding candidate as they have better adaptation capacity under culture conditions. © Medwell Journals, 2012.