GROWTH AND SURVIVAL RESPONSES OF BARRAMUNDI (LATES CALCARIFER) JUVENILES TO DIFFERENT FEED TYPES

Abstract

The availability of optimal feed is a fundamental factor in supporting the successful cultivation of barramundi (Lates calcarifer) fingerlings. A combination of artificial feed, natural feed, and supplementary feed can fulfill the nutritional needs of fish; however, the high cost of artificial feed often hinders production efficiency. This study aimed to evaluate the effects of different types of supplementary feed on the growth and survival rate of barramundi fingerlings. The research was conducted from May to July 2024 in floating net cages (FNC) in the waters of Tapian Nauli I Village, Tapian Nauli Sub-district, using a Completely Randomized Design (CRD) with four treatments: mixed trash fish (P1), squid (P2), marine worms (P3), and krill (P4), each with three replicates. Parameters measured included absolute weight growth, absolute length growth, survival rate, and water quality in the cultivation containers. The results showed that treatment P1 (mixed trash fish) produced the best growth performance, with an average absolute weight of 2.42 g, an average absolute length of 5.76 cm, and optimal survival rates. In conclusion, mixed trash fish can serve as an effective supplementary feed alternative to enhance the growth performance of barramundi fingerlings while supporting feed cost efficiency in aquaculture systems.