Comparative studies on growth potentials of parents and hybrids of Clarias gariepinus (African mud catfish)

This study examines the growth potentials of Clarias gariepinus (African catfish) with normal and snout mouth deformities under controlled indoor hatchery conditions in three senatorial districts of Ekiti State, Nigeria. Sixteen cross-breeding combinations of parental and hybrid strains were analyzed for body weight, body length, and deformities over 13 weeks. Results indicate that normal mouth strains, particularly from Ado-Ekiti, demonstrated the highest growth rates, reaching 50.64 g in body weight. Hybrids displayed intermediate performance, while snout mouth deformities hindered growth potential. The findings emphasize the importance of selecting genetically sound broodstock for aquaculture to enhance productivity and profitability.