Empirical Analysis of Growth Performance and Reproductive Success of Hybrid Catfish (Clarias gariepinus x Heterobranchus longifilis) in Plateau State

Hybrid catfish produced by crossing Clarias gariepinus females with Heterobranchus longifilis males have gained commercial prominence in Nigerian aquaculture due to claims of superior growth rates, but rigorous comparative data on growth trajectories and reproductive characteristics under specific production conditions in Plateau State, North Central Nigeria, are limited. This study empirically analyses the growth performance over 16 weeks and reproductive biology of hybrid catfish compared to both parental species reared under identical conditions at a research station in Jos South. Sixty fish per species or hybrid type were stocked across 15 outdoor concrete tanks and fed a standardised 45% crude protein diet. Biweekly growth sampling, terminal proximate composition analysis, and reproductive parameter determination were conducted. Growth trials showed that hybrids achieved significantly higher mean final weight (748 g) compared to C. gariepinus (614 g) and H. longifilis (687 g), with a specific growth rate 14% higher than C. gariepinus. Feed conversion ratio was most efficient in hybrids (1.31), followed by H. longifilis (1.44) and C. gariepinus (1.58). Hybrids were confirmed as reproductively sterile, ruling out genetic pollution of wild populations in production water bodies but necessitating continual hybrid seed production. Histological examination of gonadal tissue confirmed sterility in 100% of hybrid specimens examined. The study establishes empirical performance benchmarks for hybrid catfish production in the Plateau State climate zone and provides guidance for producers choosing between species and hybrids.

Keywords: hybrid catfish, growth performance, Clarias gariepinus, Heterobranchus longifilis, Plateau State