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Abstract
Channel catfish, Ictalurus punctatus, adults were stocked at 3,705 fish/ha in twelve 0.04-ha earthen ponds and fed to satiation either once or twice daily with diets containing either 32 or 38% protein for 170 days. Experimental diets with the appropriate levels of essential amino acids, vitamins, and minerals were formulated by a commercial feed mill. There were no significant differences (P > 0.05) in growth and body composition of channel catfish when analyzed by protein level, feeding frequency, or their interaction. Average individual fish weight at harvest was 1,600 g. Average net production was 3,125 kg/ha. Dry-weight percentages of protein, fat, and ash in the carcass were 55.5, 38.1, and 6.7%, respectively, and in the waste (head, skin, and viscera) were 40.5, 43.2. and 12.5%. respectively. Third-year channel catfish may be able to utilize a diet with lower (<32%) protein levels and a reduced energy: protein ratio.