Fish farmers advised against stressing catfish

Maarten Jay Yaw Van Schoonhoven, an aquaculture specialist, spoke to catfish farmers. He advised them to avoid practices that stress their fish. This can help reduce mortality and protect their investments.

Mr. Schoonhoven spoke at a seminar in Kumasi, organized by De Heus Ghana Limited. The event gathered over 70 catfish farmers and feed distributors. He discussed topics like catfish anatomy, production, feeding management, biosecurity, and diseases.

He explained that fish experience stress from poor conditions. These include over-stocking, overfeeding, bad water quality, and poor handling. Feeding rancid food or using unclean tools also causes stress.

Stress weakens the immune system of fish. This makes them more vulnerable to diseases in the water. Mr. Schoonhoven mentioned several diseases affecting catfish: Aeromonas Hydrophila (ulcer disease), Crack Head disease (nutrient deficiency), and Jaundice (yellow fish).

He pointed out warning signs of illness in catfish. These include lack of appetite, abnormal swimming patterns, and rubbing behavior against surfaces. Farmers should avoid stress-inducing practices to prevent disease outbreaks.

Mr. Schoonhoven encouraged farmers to add value to their products for better sales. This can help reduce post-harvest losses as well.

He noted that catfish raised for smoking need less time and feed than those for grilling or pepper soup ("point and kill"). Therefore, he urged potential farmers to consider their farming system carefully.

Farmers should evaluate feed costs and market opportunities before starting a farm venture. Participants at the seminar requested De Heus Ghana Limited to subsidize their Koudijs feed brand for affordability.