Project I: Selection and development of fish strain for sustainable aquaculture

Background and Justification

The country is endowed with high central plateau above 2,500m (11% of total area) could be
appropriate for all year round farming of cold water species. The lowlands (33% of total area)
also offer ideal temperature conditions for warm water species such as tilapia (Balarin 1986).
Over 183 species of fish are known to exist in the lakes and river systems of the country
(Golubstov and Mina 2003) of which many are commercially important aquaculture species.
Moreover, many agricultural residues could be used as composting material for fish pond
fertilization or direct feeding. On average 250,000t of raw materials (oil seed cakes, sugar cane
wastes, mill and abattoir by-products, etc.) could be used for commercial feed production
(Balarin & Haller 1982). The country is also endowed with a large body of inland waters
comprising of lakes, rivers, reservoirs that offer ample opportunity to develop culture based
aquaculture. The current multifaceted water resources development, particularly small-scale
irrigation and water harvest policy the country initiated could be additional opportunity to
increase farm productivity through integration of aquaculture and water resources use
maximization. Fish farming needs to be supported as a means for: diversification, income
generation in the rural sector and also as a means to increase overall fish production possibly for
supplying urban population, improving food security or export market.
The total fish yield from capture fisheries is roughly estimated to 40,000 to 50,000 tons per year
while contribution of aquaculture is nil. African aquaculture production amounted to about 0.5%
of the world total; high proportion came from Mediterranean Africa mostly from Egypt and was
produced for export market (FAO 1994). Of the 49 countries in Sub-Saharan Africa, 38 reported
aquaculture production. Fish farming is still at its infant stage in Ethiopia, despite favorable
physical conditions and the current conducive agricultural policy that encourages development
and comprehensive utilization of water resource for food production. The only fish culture
activities are, apart from a few small fish ponds, introduction of fish collected from wild,
operations carried by the federal and regional agriculture and research centers. The research and
development efforts so far did not address the currently observed huge demands for improved
quality and quantity seed and culture management technologies. Therefore, this project is
intended to curve the existing problem, through setting achievable goals oriented to developing
complete production technologies in particular by placing greater emphasis on the government
development context or the new initiatives that have pursued an integrated and adaptive research
development approach rather than non demand focused academic researches. Unlike previous
approach, this project will generate commercially important strains of tilapia, Oreochromis
niloticus and Catfish, Clarias gariepinus with their brood stock management, seed production
and grow-out management technologies appropriate even to small holders. The project outputs
will be important to improve the supply of fish through integrating fish farming with irrigation,
crop and livestock farming practices in rural area, and particularly in areas` of the country where
supplies of fish are most limited. It will also directly contribute and improve the diet of the rural
population through the provision of animal protein in an affordable form and alleviate nutrition
deficiencies among the rural mass.
The major outputs of the project will be strains with improved growth rate, feed conversion ratio,
disease resistance combined with production and management packages. Research will also be
conducted on fish feed, fish health, socio-economics and post harvest technology. The research
centers will also maintain improved varieties and propagate seed and distribute them to different
stakeholders.
Tilapias are an important component of subsistence fisheries for thousands of years but have
gained prominence in recent years in areas where they are not endemic. Of the 70 species of
tilapias, 9 are used in farming and of these, Nile tilapia (Oreochromis niloticus) is the main
cultured species on account of its fast growth rate, adaptability to wide range of culture
conditions and high consumer acceptability and it is responsible for the significant increase in
global tilapia aquaculture production. Tilapia contributed 1.27 million metric tons in 2000 or
3.57% of global aquaculture production. The major producing countries are China, Egypt,
Thailand, Philippines and Indonesia (Simon Wilkinson 2004).
Tilapia farming ranges from rural subsistence to large-scale commercial operations depending on
intensity of management employed. Earthen ponds are the most common culture system
worldwide. Concrete tanks and raceways are commonly used in countries where temperature is
seasonal and mainly for intensive and super intensive culture of tilapias. Cage culture is mainly
practiced in lakes, reservoirs, rivers and estuaries. The use of different culture systems (earthen
pond, concrete tank, raceway, and cage) and management strategy (extensive, semi-intensive,
intensive, monoculture, polyculture, monosex culture, and mixed sex culture) depends on
farmer’s resources, site characteristics, environmental conditions, socio-economic factors,
technological know-how and market demand. Production costs and yields vary from country to
country depending on the level of management used. The expansion of tilapia farming is
constrained by a number of factors, which include among others, shortage of fry and
deterioration in genetic quality. Improved breeds of tilapias from breeding programs on selection
and sex control have been developed but there is a need for sustained production and effective
dissemination of these to farmers.
Introductions of better performing tilapia species/strains and development of techniques to
manage unwanted reproduction have spurred significant developments that led to success in
tilapia farming. Several genetic techniques (e.g. selective breeding, cross breeding, chromosome
set manipulation, YY-male) are available to enhance the productivity of tilapia (Fredeen 1986).
However, with the exception of selective breeding, these technologies only result in a once-off
gain, and not in continued improvement. A continues improvement of relevant traits require a
well designed selective breeding program where the pedigree of brood fish is monitored to
increase the accuracy of selection. The genetically improved farmed tilapia (GIFT) project
demonstrated the potential of using selective breeding to genetically enhance the production
performance of Nile tilapia. After five generations of selection, the growth performance of the
GIFT strain was improved by more than 80% compared with the base population (Mair 1997).
Generally improved stocks, such as the GIFT strain, has an important role to play in increasing
aquaculture production in developing countries. There are many strains of Nile tilapia introduced
or developed e.g. Ghana-Israel, Egypt-BFAR, GMT (Egypt-Swansea) and Red Tilapia.
However, in some cases, the introduction of already improved strains may not be possible or
desirable due to health or biodiversity considerations. In Ethiopia it is important that, as an
alternative the technology of genetic enhancement of tilapia be applied to native species. O.
niloticus is an indigenous species to Ethiopia, comprising above 80% of fish production from
capture fisheries and has high socio-economic demand. Therefore, this project is initiated to
develop strain, brood stock management, seed production and culture technologies of Nile tilapia
through selective breeding in greenhouse.

Objectives
General objective
 To develop improved strain of tilapia, Oreochromis niloticus, adapt seed production
technology of catfish, Clarias gariepinus carp, Cyprinus carpio and different culture
technologies on production and brood stock management suitable for various agro-
ecologies.

Specific objectives

 Compare the growth and reproduction performance of different strains under

different culture systems
 To compare the distribution of sexually active, mature females in the lakes
population,
 To assess the growth and reproductive responses of four strains under pond
culture condition at NFLARRC.
 Progeny testing under pond culture at highland environment,
 To understand traits of growth and reproduction for genetic enhancement of the
selected strain
 Generate fish seed production and brood stock management technologies
Project Description
This project is part of the genetics and breeding national program to improve the breed type and
performance under different agro-ecology and culture systems.
Components

 Tilapia strain development

 Tilapia broodstock management and seed production
 Common carp broodstock management and seed production
 Catfish brood stock management and seed production
Budget by code

Budget Estimated budget for 2008-12 fiscal year

code Year 1 Year 2 Year 3 Year 4 Year 5
6114 140000 120000 144000 10000 10000
6212 2000 2000 10000 22000 22000
6213 0 0 0 0
6215 0 5000 10000 10000
6217 64000 65000 50000 5000 5000
6218 50000 0 0 0
6219 20000 0 0 0
6221-1
12500 7500 7500 7500 7500
6223
26500 56000 0 0 0
6231 108800 115000 110000 48500 48500
6241
20000 0 0 0
6243
0 50000 0 0 0
6244 0 0 0 0
6245 0 0 0 0
6256 10000 10000 4000 4000
6271 0 0 0 0
6312 0 0 0 0
6313
421000 0 0 0
6315
0 10000 10000 10000 10000
6323
0 0 0 0
874800 408000 329000 99500 99500
Monitoring and Evaluation Matrix

Output M & E indicators Informatio Method of Tools for Methods

objectives n to be collecting collecting of
collected information information analysis
Improved strain To make sure Performance of Description of interviews and Questionnaire Use various
of tilapia and experiments, strain, growth discussions statistical
the project is
catfish suitable strains selected, rate feed Data cross soft wares
for different progressing as growth rate, conversion checking and
agro-ecologies feed conversion ratio, fecundity standard
planned
and culture ratio, etc. and egg quality references
systems parameters

Activity 1: Evaluate growth and reproductive performance of Tana, Hashengie,

DZ and Chamo strains under greenhouse condition

Background and Justification

Tilapia, principally Nile tilapia (Oreochromisniloticus) is the first most important fish having
high socioeconomic demands in Ethiopia. The tilapias are found naturally established in the
natural lakes and rivers distributed in different agro-ecological zones. However, the species
growth and reproduction potential and also their potential for aquaculture in not well studied.
Species recruitment and strain development program are the main activities to select better
performing tilapia species under different culture system.
Objectives
 To observe the growth and reproductive performance of DZ, Chamo, Tana and
Hashengie strains under greenhouse,
 To select better forming tilapia,
 Scientific information on the growth and reproductive performance of four strains,

Materials and Methods

Experimental fish
Broodfish (20: 50; male: female) for each trail of four strains will be collected from
geographically isolated water bodies namely Debrezeith, Chamo, Tana and hashenge and will be
transported to NFLARRC, Sebeta. Male and female fish will be kept separately and will be
acclimated under common environment for one month.
Experimental design and sampling procedure
Ponds or tanks in greenhouse will be prepared and filled with water to a depth of 1.5m. Physico-
chemical and productivity tests will be done at the beginning and maintained same throughout
the experiment. Matured brood fish (1: 3; male: female) of each strain will be stocked in tanks/
ponds at 3 female per m2 in three replications in CRD. Reproduction and growth will be
monitored for a year through collecting eggs from spawning females every 5 days and weight
and length every month respectively. Eggs collected will be tested for fertilization and
hatchability. All progeny should be removed from the experimental ponds. After a year stomach
content and gonad development will be assessed.
The experiment will be conducted in three phases through sampling at the sight, collecting and
transporting experimental fish from Debrezeith, Chamo, Hashenge and Tana lakes to
NFLARRC.
Phase I
 Design the greenhouse,
 Select appropriate site and
 Construction of technically suitable greenhouse to conduct the proposed experiment,
 This will be done by consulting different greenhouse users and importers in this country,
Phase II
Phase two will monitor the reproductive status of brood females at their natural ecology. This
includes:
Take weight-length and fecundity samples of 100 brooding specimens:
 Weight of GSI of the brood females will be considered,
 Oocyte development, maturity stage and oocytes distribution in the GSI will be recorded,
 Physic-chemical and productivity of the natural environment will be considered,
 Weight - length and gonad development of same length samples of males will be
considered.
 Transport by polythene bag in containers 40 broodfemales and 15 males of same size to
NAFLARRC.

Phase III
 Four ponds/tanks will be prepared for stock holding each pond being separated by mesh
to keep the female and male fish separately.
 Broodfish (10: 30; male: female) for each trail of four strains will be collected from
geographically isolated water bodies (Debrezeith, Chamo, Tana and Hashenge) and
transported with anesthesia to Sebeta research center. The fish will be acclimated under
common environment for one month. Same age swim-up fry of each strain will be
collected and reared to maturity in tanks/ponds under common environment. The growth
and reproduction performance of the strains will be compared under common culture
and environmental condition.
 Matured brood fish (1: 3; male: female) of each strain will be stocked in tanks/ ponds at
3 female per m2 in three replications in CRD. Reproduction and growth will be
monitored for a year through collecting eggs from spawning females every 5 days and
weight and length every month respectively.
 Statistical analyses
One way analysis of variance (ANOVA) and multiple range test, least square difference test
(LSD) will be used to determine mean differences across treatments in weight gain (g day -1),
eggs spawn-1, eggs kg female-1 day-1, spawn female-1, percent fertilization and hatch. Total
eggs produced by individual females was correlated with body weight gain (g day -1) using
Pearson's product-moment correlation. All analysis will be carried out using statistical
package (SPSS) 20 for Windows and all values will be considered significant when P < 0.05
and expressed as the mean ± S.E.M.

Location

 Phase I Debrezeith, Zewai, Tana and Hashenge lakes,

 Phase II and III at National Fish and other Living Aquatic Resources Research Center,

Duration

Four years

Work plan

Activities Fiscal Years

2008 2009 2010 2011 2012
1 Green house and culture facility planning and xxxx
construction and testing
2 Evaluation of Tana, Hahsenge, Debrezeith and Lake x
Chamo strains reproductive capacity at their natural
ecology and eventually transporting experimental
fish to the National center
3 Culture facility preparation; experiment design and xx
sampling over 12 months,
4 Compare growth and reproductive performance of xx xx xx
Tana, Hashengie, DZ and Chamo strains under
greenhouse condition
5 Data analyses and final write up xx
X=Quarter
Budget by Code

Fiscal Years
Budget code 2008 2009 2010 2011
6114 110000 120000 120000 0
6212 2000 2000 2000 10000
6213 0 0 0 0
6215 0 0 5000 10000
6217 24000 65000 5000 5000
6218 10000 0 0 0
6219 0 0 0 0
6222 7500
6223 16500 56000 0 0
6231 64000 115000 20000 4500
6241 0 0 0 0
6243 0 50000 0 0
6245 0 0 0 0
6256 0 0 10000 4000
6271 0 0 0 0
6312 0 0 0 0
6313 360000 0 0 0
6323 0 0 0 0
Total 594000 408000 162000 33500

Output

 Scientific information on the growth and reproduction performance of better

performing tilapia,
 Scientific knowledge on greenhouse house effect on tilapia growth and
reproduction,
 Better performing strain.

Responsible: Dr. Getnet G/tsadik, Esayas Alemayehu , AbelnehYimer, Emebet kebede

Activity 2: Evaluate reproductive and growth performance of DZ and Chamo strains under
hatchery condition

Background and Justifications

Tilapia, principally Nile tilapia (Oreochromisniloticus) is the first most important fish having
high socioeconomic demands in Ethiopia. The tilapias perform differently under different culture
systems and conditions. The intention of this study is to evaluate the reproductive and growth
performance of Debrezeith and Chamo strains under hatchery pond conditions at NFLRRC.
Objective:
 To observe the growth and reproductive performance of DZ and Chamo strains under
indoor tanks system at NFLARRC,

Material and Methods

Experimental fish

Broodfish (20: 50; male: female) for each trail of two strains will be collected from Debrezeith
and Chamo lakes. The experimental fish will be transported to NFLARRC, Sebeta. Male and
female fish will be kept separately and will be acclimated under common environment for one
month in cement tanks in the hatchery.

Experimental design and sampling procedure

 Concrete ponds (n=8) found at Sebeta Fish hatchery will be prepared for stock holding
and seed production in tanks and incubators,
 Broodfish (20: 50; male: female) for each trail of two strains will be collected from
Debrezeith and Chamo and transported to Sebeta research center. The fish will be
acclimated under optimal temperature regime and common environment for one month,
 The tanks will be prepared and filled with water to a depth of 1.5m. Physico-chemical
and productivity tests will be done at the beginning and maintained same throughout the
experiment. Matured brood fish (1: 3; male: female) of each strain will be stocked in
tanks/ ponds at 3 female per m2 in three replications in CRD,
 Reproductive and growth performance of the strains will be monitored over 6 months
checking spawning females every 5 days and weight and length every month
respectively.

Statistical analyses
 One way analysis of variance (ANOVA) and multiple range test, least square difference
test (LSD) will be used to determine mean differences between treatments in weight gain
 (g day-1), eggs spawn-1, eggs kg female-1 day-1, spawn female-1, percent fertilization and
hatch. Total eggs produced by individual females was correlated with body weight gain
(g day-1) using Pearson's product-moment correlation. All analysis will be carried out
using statistical package (SPSS) 20 for Windows and all values will be considered
significant when P < 0.05 and expressed as the mean ± S.E.M.

Location: National Fish and other Living Aquatic Resources Research Center,

Duration: Two years

Work plan

No. Activities Fiscal year

2007 2008
1 Culture facility preparation; x
2 Collect and transport experimental fish to NFLR x
3 Following the experimental procedure sampling xxx
over 6 month experimental period,
4 Data collection and write up xx

Budget by Code

Budget by Code Fiscal year

2009
6114 20000
6212 0
6213 0
6215 0
6217 10000
6218 0
6219 0
6223 0
6231 20000
6241 0
6243 0
6244 0
6245 0
6256 0
6271 0
 6312 0
6313 36000
6323 0
Total 86000

Expected outputs
 Scientific information on the growth and reproduction performance of better
performing tilapia under cement pond in hatchery,

Responsible/s: Dr. Getnet G/tsadik, Esayas Alemayehu , AbelnehYimer, Emebet kebede

Activity 3: Evaluate reproductive and growth performance of DZ and Chamo strains

under hapa in pond culture system

Background and justification

Tilapia, principally Nile tilapia (Oreochromisniloticus) is the first most important fish having
high socioeconomic demands in Ethiopia. The tilapias perform differently under different culture
systems and conditions. The intention of this study is to evaluate the reproductive and growth
performance of Debrezeith and Chamo strains under hapa-in-pond culture system at NFLRRC.

Objective

 To observe the growth and reproductive performance of DZ and Chamo strains under
hapa-in-pond system at NFLARRC,

Material and Methods

Experimental fish

Broodfish (20: 50; male: female) for each trail of two strains will be collected from Debrezeith
and Chamo lakes. The experimental fish will be transported to NFLARRC, Sebeta. Male and
female fish will be kept separately and will be acclimated under common environment for one
month in cement tanks in the hatchery.

Experimental design and sampling procedure

 Experimental hapas 3 X 4 each having a depth of 2m (n=16) will be constructed in two

earthen ponds prepared by liming, fertilization and water filling prior to experimental fish
stocking,
  Broodfish (20: 50; male: female) for each trail of two strains will be collected from
Debrezeith and Chamo and transported to Sebeta research center. The fish will be
acclimated under optimal temperature regime and common environment for one month,
 The Ponds will be prepared and filled with water to a depth of 1.5m. Physico-chemical
and productivity tests will be done at the beginning and maintained same throughout the
experiment. Matured brood fish (1: 3; male: female) of each strain will be stocked in
tanks/ ponds at 3 female per m2 in three replications in CRD,
 Reproductive and growth performance of the strains will be monitored over 12 months
checking spawning females every 5 days and weight and length every month
respectively.

Statistical analyses
 One way analysis of variance (ANOVA) and multiple range test, least square difference
test (LSD) will be used to determine mean differences between treatments in weight gain
(g day-1), eggs spawn-1, eggs kg female-1 day-1, spawn female-1, percent fertilization and
hatch. Total eggs produced by individual females was correlated with body weight gain
(g day-1) using Pearson's product-moment correlation. All analysis will be carried out
using statistical package (SPSS) 20 for Windows and all values will be considered
significant when P < 0.05 and expressed as the mean ± S.E.M.

Location: National Fish and other Living Aquatic Resources Research Center (NFLAR)
Duration: 4 years
Location: National Fish and other Living Aquatic Resources Research Center,

Work plan

No. Major Activities Fiscal year

2009 2010
1 Culture facility preparation in response to x
experimental design
2 Transport experimental fish to NFLAR x
3 Follow up according to experimental design and xx x
sampling
4 Data analyses and write up xx
Budget by code

Budget by Fiscal year

Code 2009 2010
6114 12000
6212 4000 6000
6213
6215
6217 15000
6231 25000 8000
6241
6323
Total 56000 14000

Expected outputs
 Scientific information on the growth and reproduction performance of better
performing tilapia under cement pond in hatchery

Responsibilities: Dr. Getnet G/tsadik, EsayasAlemayehu, AbelnehYimer, Fekadu H/Michael

Activity 4: Evaluate hatchery seed production techniques of common carp

Background and justification

Freshwater aquaculture has been practiced in many Asian countries for millennia. China has
pioneered as hurdle of fish farming and remains to be the leading producer worldwide today. In
the past two decades fish production from the aquaculture industry has grown fast (over 10% per
annum) and reached over 90 million tones in 2006 (FAO, 2007). Fish farming has spread to
many European and South American countries over past fifty years and the contribution of the
sector for global production has also increased significantly.
However, fish farming is relatively a new practice to Africa and limited to few countries even
today. The three major producing counties in Africa are Egypt, Nigeria and Chad. Egypt alone
contributes over 80% of the total production and the contribution of Africa for global production
is still negligible. The situation in Sub Saharan Africa is rather scary in spite the huge water
potential and suitable environment existing in most countries.

In spite of its economic contribution and nutritive importance obtained from the sector
aquaculture remains to be unpopular in SSA. There is enormous untapped water resource and
human potential that can be utilized to boost fish production. Ethiopia is known to be endowed
with huge water resources and different agro ecologies suitable to initiate the various forms of
fish farming and culture technologies. Moreover, several reservoirs and small water bodies have
been built in the past two decades in Ethiopia for different development projects and power
generation.

Several species of finfish such as tilapia, catfish and carp have been known as important culture
fish worldwide. In particular different species of carp are popular and contribute significant
portion of the production in many Asian and European countries. Different species of carp
including common carp, Chinese carp and grass carp are popular fish for aquaculture.

Different species of carp including common cap, Silver carp and grass carp have been introduced
into the country beginning the 1930s (Shibru Tedla and Fiseha Haile Meskel, 1981). There are
three recognized varieties of common carp: the organic colored scale carp (C. carpio var.
flavipinnis), the partially scaled mirror carp (C. carpio var. specularis), and the virtually scale
less leather carp (C.carpio var. nudos). The normally colored or orange colored scale and the
mirror carp are the varieties preferred for culture, mainly because of their faster growth rate
(Pillay, 1990). In Ethiopia the scaled carp and mirror carp established breeding population in
most water bodies stocked. Similarly the golden carp, Carassius auratus has been widely used as
ornamental fish worldwide in the aquaculture industry. In Ethiopia this fish has been introduced
from abroad and stocked at Sebta ponds. This brood stock still survives in the center and
propagated in pond for sale.

Over the past three decades most carp species including common carp established themselves
and contributed to the fish production in the country. In the past decade the contribution of carp
to the capture fishery has increased significantly in Lakes Ziway, Koka, Langeno, Hashenge etc.
Moreover, the demand for carp fingerlings has increased considerably in the past decade. This
demand can be met by producing fingerlings using simple propagation technologies which could
be used at farmers and semi intensive level in the country.
Introduction of the various types of fish farming practices and culture technologies could
enhance fish production. Moreover, proper application of these technologies maximizes efficient
utilization of the different niches of the aquatic habitats in a sustainable way.

Objective

 The overall objective of this activity is to develop carp propagation technological

package which can be used to enhance carp aquaculture production at semi intensive
level
 Water quality monitoring systems for aquaria and pond dynamics will be developed

Material and Methods

Artificial or induced breeding and rearing in hatchery

Artificial breeding of fish requires a series of steps including selection of brood stock, extraction
of pituitary gland from donor fish, preparation and injection of hormones, incubation of fertilized
eggs and larval rearing following the procedures of Michaels, (1988), Haylor and Muir, (1998)
and as summarised below.
Collection of pituitary; Carp pituitary will be collected from ripe fish. Cut the head and remove
the brain tissue and collect the pituitary using forceps. Collected pituitary can be used either
fresh or stored in alcohol or acetone.
Preparation of injection; the dose required to induce ovulation is one gland from a fish of
similar size if taken during spawning season or 1.5 glands if taken another time. Glands can be
taken from female or male donors. The injection is prepared by dissolving the gland in 9% saline
solution (9 gram salt in 1000 ml).
Injection dose: The dose required to induce ovulation is 1 gland (approximately 3 mg) for a fish
of 1 kg recipient fish if taken during spawning or 1.5 gland in other times. Female fish receive a
priming dose equivalent to 1/10 of the total dose in 1 ml of the saline solution followed after 8-
10 hrs by a second injection, equivalent to 9/10 in 1.5 ml saline. The male receives 2 mg per Kg
of fish during the second injection.
Injection; the brood stock to be used for spawning should be selected carefully. The brood fish
are removed from holding tanks or hapas. Each fish will be injected with a needle of
recommended size at the base of the dorsal fin. The oocytes are observed under microscope to
determine the position of the nucleus indicating their maturity
Incubation and hatching:
Stripping: The time between injection with pituitary extract and stripping of oocytes (latency
period) depends on temperature. It is usually less than 24 hrs (about 12 hrs at 25 0C. Fish are
stripped at their belly side to check if the eggs or milt are ready for spawning. If eggs run freely
from the genital opening the female is ready for stripping. No force should be applied. The head
should be covered, the body dried with towel and stripped gently. The male is usually ready for
stripping 6 hours after the injection of pituitary extract. Similarly several drops of milt are
dropped in a bowel containing the eggs (10 ml milt per kg egg). The bowel is gently swirled to
mix the eggs and the milt. Water is gently added facilitating motility and fertilization of eggs.
After one minute fertilisation will be completed since the sperm are no longer motile.
Egg incubation: Carp eggs can be incubated in either plastic or glass jars. The water flow
should be slow and meshed to prevent escape of eggs. The optimum temperature for incubation
of carp eggs is from 22-26 oC. The time of hatching varies with temperature (e.g., 12 days at 15
o
C, 4 days at 25 oC). Since the eggs are sticky some milk will be added to remove the sticky
substance. The emergence of the free swimming larvae signifies hatching.

Sample collection and laboratory analysis

The physico-chemical and biological parameters will be collected and analyzed from aquaria,
ponds or tanks. Impacts of culture activities on the water quality of the culture systems will be
continuously monitored and analysed.
Physico-chemical parameters
Important physico-chemical parameters such as water temperature, dissolved oxygen, PH, water
transparency, conductivity will be measured using standard probes
BOD, phosphorus compounds such as Soluble reactive phosphorus, PO4, nitrogen compounds
including nitrate, nitrite and ammonia, and some important ions will be analyzed in the
laboratory following standard procedure (Wetzel and Likens, 1991).. Transparency of the water
can be determined by lowering a circular disc, called a Secchi disc, on a calibrated cable into the
water until it just disappears. The depth at which it disappears, and just reappears, is recorded as
the depth of transparency. Turbidity should be measured in the field by turbid meter but, if
necessary, samples can be stored in the dark for not more than 24 hours and measured in the
laboratories.
Biological community samples:
Plankton samples mainly phytoplankton and zooplankton samples will be collected either from
aquaria or ponds using 25 and 60 um net respectively. Plankton samplers: Volume samplers
(water bottles, plankton traps, tubes (water corer) and water pumps) and net samplers (towed
plankton samplers, plankton nets with different mesh size) will be used. Benthic
macroinvertebrates will be sampled using Ekman grab when necessary. Sample preservation,
storage and analysis will follow standard procedures and methodologies.

Water samples taken for chlorophyll analysis in the laboratory will be collected in polythene
bottles and 0.1 to 0.2 ml of magnesium carbonate suspension added immediately as a
preservative. Samples should also be filtered immediately although they can be stored in a cool
dark place for up to 8 hours. However, once filtered through a glass fiber filter, the filter can be
stored frozen for a short period prior to analysis. The chlorophyll pigments are solvent-extracted
and measured spectrophotometrically. Measurement of chlorophyll pigments provides an
approximate indication of algal biomass and often included in pond and reservoir assessments.
Parasitological Examination
Fish samples will be collected regularly from hatchery and ponds using hand nets. Total length
and weight of all or some collected fish specimens will be measured using measuring board and
balance respectively. Following standard measurements, the fish will be examined externally and
internally for the presence of parasite. Then each fish will be dissected and the presence parasites
in fish cavities will be examined visually and also using compound microscope. Parasites
collected from each fish will be separately collected in a labelled vials containing 4% formalin
for further laboratory studies.

Microbial Examination
Some tissues and organs of the fish will be taken in order to examine the presence disease
causing bacteria and other pathogens. Samples of egg, milt as well as larvae from the hatchery
will be collected. Wet smears from skin, fin, gills and visceral organs of the juvenile and fry fish
will also be collected. The samples will be incubated on different media (e.g., 5% sheep blood
agar, MacConkey agar) at 25oC and 37oC for 3-4 days. After incubation, the bacteria will be
identified on the basis of their colony morphology, Graham staining, and biochemical characters.
ii) Laboratory studies
Parasites collected from field and hatchery will be examined under the microscope to identify
each parasite to the lowest possible taxa using standard literature. Moreover, the parasite load
and prevalence will be determined following standard procedures and methods. Similarly,
pathogenic bacteria from collected fish organs will be isolated and identified using standard
methods.
Location: Sebeta

Duration: 1 years

work plan

Activities Fiscal year

2008
Collection of pituitary *
Pond propagation of common carp & gold fish *
Induced propagation of common carp and gold fish *
Aquaria experiment *
Water quality analysis *
Data collection and analysis *
Progress report *
Final write up *

Budget

Activities Fiscal year

2007
Investment cost 100000
Operation Cost 66000
Sub Total 166000

Output: Manual/technology for artificial and semi artificial spawning of common carp and gold
fish.

Responsible: EsayasAlemayehu, Dr. Zenebe Tadesse, Dr. Getnet G/tsadik, Dr. Marshet Adugna,
BizuayehuGutema

Activity 5: Survival and growth performance of different stages of the African catfish
(Clarias gariepinus) under semi intensive production system

Background and justification

The African catfish Clarias gariepinus is the most important fish species in aquaculture next to
Nile tilapia in Africa (Ponzoni and Nguyen, 2007). Production has increased from 1455t in
1990to 194276t-in 2011 (FAO, 2014). The rate at which production of the species has increased
in the world is attributed to the relative ease at which it can be cultured. The species is very
suitable to aquaculture because it is easy to reproduce, it does not require specialized feed, it
tolerates high stocking densities and grows rapidly under these conditions, it accepts artificial
feed, it tolerates poor water quality, and very importantly, it is highly sought after in local
markets and economically viable in pond production systems (Ponzoni and Nguyen, 2007).

Ponds, Tanks (concrete, plastic and fiberglass), raceways and recalculating aquaculture systems
(RAS) with varying levels of intensification are production systems under which the African
catfish is reared. Under intensive culture system and by using RAS, the species has been grown
to a final density of 500kg/m (van de Nieuwegiessen, et al., 2009).

The culture of the African catfish, like other fish species, is very immature in Ethiopia.
Aquaculture in Ethiopia is one of the underdeveloped farming systems despite the presence of
huge potential to develop the sector. Very few people practice fish farming in the country and
commercial farms that employ various culture systems are yet to be established. Many factors
can be attributed for the underdevelopment of the sector in the country. Among these, lack of
information about the profitability of the business, lack of data about the whole aspect of the
farming system, lack of seed and lack of proper feed are the prominent ones.

In order to develop the aquaculture sector in Ethiopia, various studies should be carried out to
generate important information and technology such as hatchery production of quality seed,
quality feed, culture systems suitable for farmers and commercial operators, and general farm
management. To this end, the National Fishery and Aquatic Life Research Center has been
conducting various research activities with the Nile tilapia and the African catfish. Recently the
center has developed a technology for mass production of catfish fry. However, the next step,
which is growing the fry into fingerlings to be stocked into ongrowing ponds and grown to
market size remain unevaluated and technologies for this have not been tested and developed yet.

The technologies developed should answer the need for quality feed and knowledge of the right
stocking density that guarantees good growth in respect to a good financial return. Stocking
density is the concentration at which fish are initially stocked into a system. It is generally used
to refer to the density of fish at any point of time. It is considered to be one of the important
factors that affect fish growth, feed utilization and gross fish yield (Liu and Chang, 1992). The
full utilization of space for maximum fish production through intensive culture can improve the
profitability of the fish farm. Fish intensification by increasing stocking density is also found
suitable to overcome the problem of land shortage (Khattab, 2004), efficient use of water and
cannibalism observed in catfish (Hecht, 1996).
Knowledge of the defined stocking densities of catfish fry and fingerlings that are suitable for
different culture systems is crucial and a base for the development of the catfish aquaculture in
Ethiopia. Hence, this study is designed to determine the effect of different stocking densities on
growth performance and survival of catfish fry and fingerlings in hatchery and pond systems.

Objectives
 To determine the effect of stocking density on the survival and growth performance of
catfish fry and fingerlings
 To determine specific growth rate of fry and fingerlings reared under different stocking
densities
 To determine the survival rate of fry and fingerlings reared under different stocking
densities
 To compare the effect of stocking density on growth and survival of catfish fry in tanks
and concrete ponds

Materials and Methods

Source of fry
Artificial reproduction of catfish will be carried out at the NFALRC hatchery. Suitable
broodstock will be selected from ponds in the center and males and females will be placed in
separate tanks inside the hatchery. Water temperature will be maintained at 25 oC. The
broodstock will be fed suitable diet for 1-2 weeks inside the hatchery. 2 days prior to injection
with hormone all feeding will be stopped. Pituitary hormone either from catfish or carp will be
injected according to recommended doses. Stripping will be carried out the next morning and
fertilization of eggs with sperm from male donor will be done immediately after receiving the
eggs on a bowl. Fertilized eggs will be placed in incubating basins which are equipped with
continuous flow of water. Catfish starts to hatch in 24 hours at 26 oC. After the 3rd day of
hatching the larvae will have absorbed the egg yolk sac and feeding of live feed will commence.
Artemia naupli will be fed 4 times a day until the 10th day. At this stage the fish are called fry.
Sufficient number of fry will be collected from the NFALRC hatchery and will be acclimated for
5-10days to the environmental setting of the experiment in a number of aquaria. During the
acclimation period fry will be fed with the same feed to be used in the experiment. Prior to
stocking in the experimental tanks, the fry will be weighed and counted.
Stocking density
Fry
The effect of stocking density on the growth and survival of catfish fry will be studied. Fry of
known weight will be stocked at 2 fishL-1, 5fishL-1, 10fish L-1 and 15fishL-1 in 1000L tanks in 3
replicates. Water circulation and feed will be provided equally to all treatments. Temperature
will be maintained at 26oC. Fry will be weighed every two weeks by taking them out of the tank
by using scoop nets and putting them on a sensitive balance. Dead fry will be removed from the
tanks every day and this will be recorded. Water quality parameters will be monitored during the
whole experimental period.
To determine the effect of stocking density on growth performance and survival of fry in
concrete ponds, one 50m2 concrete pond will be used. Fry of known weight will be stocked at 2
fishL-1, 5fishL-1, 10fish L-1 and 15fishL-1 in 1m3 hapas in 3 replicates, which will placed inside
the pond. The pond will be periodically fertilized with either a chemical or organic fertilizer
during the experiment period. Water replacement will only account for loses due to evaporation
and leakage. 5% of biomass will be fed 4 times daily in both cases. Weight measurements will be
taken fortnightly and feeding level will be adjusted accordingly. During the whole period water
quality parameters will be monitored.
Fingerlings
1-3 gm fingerlings will be collected from the first experiment and stoked at 0.2 fishL -1, 0.5fishL-1
and 1fish L-1 in 9 1000 L tanks. Formulated feed (35-40% crude protein) will be fed 4 times a
day at 5% biomass. Water exchange and DO levels will be maintained equally to all the
treatments. Fingerlings will be weighed every two weeks and feed ratio will be adjusted
accordingly.
To determine the effect of stocking density on growth performance and survival of fingerlings in
concrete ponds, one 50m2 concrete pond will be used. Fingerlings from the previous experiment
will be stocked at 0.2 fishL -1, 0.5fishL-1, 1fish L-1 and 2fish L-1 in 1m3 hapas which are placed
inside the pond. The pond will be periodically fertilized with either a chemical or organic
fertilizer during the experiment period. Water replacement will only account for loses due to
evaporation and leakage. 5% of biomass will be fed 4 times daily in both cases. Weight
measurements will be taken fortnightly and feeding level will be adjusted accordingly. During
the whole period water quality parameters will be monitored.

Data analysis
Specific growth rate (Gw) will be determined as:
Gw=(lnWt −lnWo)/t

Where, ln is natural logarithm, Wo is initial weight (g) and Wt is final weight (g).

Survival rate will be determined as

Survival rate ( % )=(NSF−NDF / NSF )100

Where, NSF and NDF are the No. of stocked and dead fish during the study period, respectively

ANOVA will be used to test if stocking density has significant effect on growth and mortality of
fry and fingerlings.
Location: Sebeta NFALRC
Duration: 2008-2009
Responsibilities: Esayas Alemayehu, Dr. Zenebe Tadesse, Dr. Getnet G/tsadik, Dr. Marshet Adugna

Expected Outputs:
 A stocking density with highest growth and survival rate will be identified
 Growth performance of catfish in tanks and ponds will be evaluated
Budget
Budget code Budget (Birr)
6114 5000
6217 10000
6218 45000
6219 20000
6221 5000
6223 5000
6231 9800
6241 10000
6256 5000
Total 114800

Work plan

Activity 2007 2008 2009

Purchase of materials *
Collection of brood stock from *
lakes
Hatchery production of fry * * *
Experiment * *
Data Analysis * * *
Progress report * * *
Final report *
output M & E Indicators Information Method of data Tools for Method of analysis
Objectives to be collection collecting the
collected information
Stocking density Wight and Number of Sampling and weighing Hand nets, balance Statistical software
with highest number of Fry dead fish,
survival and and fingerling weight of fish
growth rate
Comparative Wight and Number of Sampling and weighing Hand nets, Standard methods used in
growth and number of Fry dead fish, of fish, sampling and balance, plankton plankton research,
survival in ponds and fingerling weight of fish, laboratory analysis of nets, microscope, Statistical software
and tanks placed waterquality waterquality parameters, counting chamber
in the hatchery parameters, identification and
type and determination of
abundance of abundance of plankton
plankton
Monitoring and Evaluation
References
FAO (2014). The State of World Fisheries and Aquaculture: Opportunities and challenges.
Rome, 243pp.
Khattab, Y. A. R., Abdel-Tawwab, M. and Ahmad, “M. H. (2004). Effect of protein level and
stocking density on growth performance, survival rate, feed utilization and body
composition of Nile tilapia fry (Oreochromis niloticus L.). In: Proceedings of the Sixth
International Symposium on Tilapia in Aquaculture, (R. Bolivar, G. Mair and K.
Fitzsimmons, eds). Manila, Philippines, BFAR, Philippines, 2004, pp. 264-276.
Liu, K. M. and Chang, W. B. (1992). Bioenergetic modeling of effect of fertilization, stocking
density, and spawning on growth of the Nile tilapia, Oreochromis niloticus (L.).
Aquaculture and Fisheries Management 23: 291-301.
Ponzoni, R. W. and Nguyen, N. H. (eds) (2008). Proceedings of a Workshop on the
Development of a Genetic Improvement Program for African Catfish Clarias gariepinus.
Accra, Ghana. The World Fish Center.
van de Nieuwegiessen, P., Olwo, J., Khong, S., Verreth, J.A.J. and Schrama, J.M. (2009). Effects
of age and stocking density on the welfare of African catfish, Clarias gariepinus
Burchell. Aquaculture 288:69–75.

Activity 6: Testing and evaluation of the reproductive performance of tilapia brood stocks
(Hawassa strain) to establish sustainable seed production system

Background and Justification

There is not well organized fish seed producing body in Southern Nations Nationalities and
Peoples Region (SNNPR), Ethiopia. Absence of seed supply can be taken as one of the problems
hindering aquaculture development in the past even though the region has great potential for this
sector. Currently, the government is trying to establish 2 fish seed producing sub-centers (out-
door hatcheries) in the region to fill this gap. There is a lack of research on tilapia fingerling
production (Jolly, 1996) in developing countries. Moreover, this problem is more common in
Ethiopia due to absence of operating hatcheries previously. This fact shows that there is a need
of doing experimental test on fish seed production to establish proved hatchery system which can
be applicable in our new seed producing sub-centers.

Developing locally applicable fish seed production (hatchery) system used for brood stock
management and sustainable seed production is the first and basic step to solve the bottleneck of
aquaculture production because this sector was highly increased after modern hatchery
techniques were developed (Phelps, 2010). Like any other agricultural activities, seed is a basic
requirement in fish production. The advancement of aquaculture has often been bottlenecked
because of the lack of seed (Phelps, 2010). Availability of sustainable quality fish seed in
adequate amount is one of the key factors for profitable fish farming (George et al., 2010). Due
this, absence of sustainable quality fish seed supply is considered to be one of the problems
hindering tilapia production in developing countries.

Brood stock management is one of the factors affecting seed production in hatchery (Phelps,
2010). To produce fish seed in a sustainable way, parent stocks with a good performance should
be maintained for replacing the deteriorating breeding stocks whenever necessary/when they
aged. For this reason, the establishment and maintenance of good quality brood stocks in fish hatcheries is
considered to be one of the basic steps for sustainable aquaculture (Carl et al., 2008). Nile Tilapia is hardy fish
which can tolerate low environmental conditions (Hussain, 2004). These characteristic make the
fish suitable to be grown in farmers’ condition where there is low controlling system of the
growing environment. However, due to absence of sustainable seed supply and knowledge gap
among the farmers, fish production found to be at a very low level compared to other agricultural
activities in Ethiopia.

The recent worldwide tilapia production influenced by fast expansion of Oreochromis niloticus
(Neves et al., 2008). On the other hand, due to uncontrolled and short reproduction cycle, Tilapia
is susceptible to inbreeding (Hussain, 2004). This condition leads to deterioration of genetic
variability or inbreeding depression which can result in reduced growth rate, loss of fecundity,
deformation of structures and poor survival condition. For this reason, replacement of brood
stocks in hatchery farm is very important. In tilapia hatchery, at least 500 brood fish per
generation should be maintained as a standard population size for breeding (Hussain, 2004).
However, the quality of the parent stocks decreased as they aged. Due to this reason, there is a
need of maintaining and replacing the parent stocks continuously within a certain time interval.
Therefore, the aim of this study is to develop a system of maintaining quality parent stocks for
sustainable seed production in Hawassa fish seed production sub-center farm.

General objective:
 To collect F1 generation from the wild stock domesticated at the Hawassa tilapia seed
production farm, Study the growth and reproductive performance of the parent stock and
maintain brood stocks for sustainable seed production.

Specific objectives:
 To know the reproduction and growth performance of Hawassa strain
 To maintain good quality parent stocks (to determine age group)
 To develop a system of parent stock replacement for sustainable seed production
Methodology

Brood stock pond preparation and experimental fish

The brood stock ponds will be cleaned and limed (25 kg/ 1000 m 2). After a few days, Chicken
manure (100 g/m2/wk) will be added. Water will be filled with two steps. 20-30 cm depth will be
filled in the first step to allow the growth of live foods (Jolly, 1996). After a week, water will be
filled completely. F1 generation of tilapia will be collected from the brood stock ponds of the
seed production activity and stocked into the nursery ponds and reared to maturity. At the same
time a control from the wild will be established and followed. The brood females will be selected
for the experiment at age at first maturity and will be stocked in to the brood stock ponds.
Representative Sample of parent stocks from the original fish (seed production activity) will also
be monitored in the same way. They will be fed 30-45 % protein (obtained from Bomosa
experience) based on 3-5% their body weight as a supplementary feed in addition to the poultry
manure. The required spawning performance data will be collected. The seed produced from this
activity will be transferred to the seed production activity.

Nursery pond preparation and stocking

The nursery ponds will be cleaned and filled with water. They will be supplied with chicken
manure to allow them to produce live food for the fry. Feed (30-45% protein) will be fed as a
supplementary fed based on the body weight of the fish. The rearing performance of fry sample
collected from F1 generation will be tested every month. Factors like days to hatch, days to yolk
absorption, survival rate and other important factors will be recorded.

Experimental design and procedure

Age at first spawning, body weight at first spawning, spawning interval (days) of females from
the three categories of fish to be tested will be recorded. The brood females selected for the
study by at age at first maturity from F1 generation, wild stock and original parent will be
stocked in three ponds at a stocking ratio of 1: 2 (Male to Female ratio) at a stocking density of 4
female per meter square (6 fish /m 2) in three ponds with three replication. Weight of fish will be
recorded every month.
Reproductive performance will be measured by removing eggs from the incubating females
every five days. Egg quality will be assessed. The reproductive capacity will be assessed using
the following parameters:

 Date of stocking
 Body weight and length of male and female fish during stocking and every month
throughout growing period
 Fecundity (Eggs will be collected every five days from brooding females)
 Mean number of eggs per spawning
 Mean relative fecundity (eggs/g of fish weight)
  Fertilized eggs (%)
 Hatchability (%)
 Spawning interval (mean number of days to complete one spawning cycle)
 Sex ratio of offspring of the wild, F1 and original stocks

Data will be analyzed using latest version of SPSS.

Work plan

No Activities To be 2008 - 2011

. Performed 2007/08 2008/09 2009/10 2010/11
Q Q Q Q Q Q Q Q Q Q2 Q3 Q4 Q1 Q Q3 Q4
1 2 3 4 1 2 3 4 1 2
1 Researchers and TAs x X x x
training
2 Pond cleaning, manure x X x x x x x x
application, water filling
and fertilizer application.
3 Parent Fish stocking X x x x x x
4 Preparation of nursery X x x x x x x x x x x x x x x
ponds
5 Fry stocking x x x x x x x x x x x x x x
6 Male and female fish x x x x x x x x x x x x
stocking for spawning
7 Transferring fry in to x x x x x x x x x x x x
nursery ponds
8 Data collection to x x x x x x x x x x x x x x
evaluate the fish
performance
9 Practical x x x x
training/upgrading the
capacity of researchers
and TAs
10 Stalk holders' workshop x x x x
11 Selection and x x x x x x x x x x x x x x
maintenance of brood
stocks
12 Data analysis and report x x x x x x x
writing
13 Package preparation for x x x x
the seed production sub-
center (hatchery)
15 Stalk holders workshop x x x x
and fish day preparation
 Output: Spawning performance of tilapia strain of Lake Hawassa will be known.

Budget by code

No Inputs 2008 – 2011 E.C

. Year 1 Year 2 Year 3 Year 4 Total
1 Per diem 20,000 20,000 20,000 20,000 20,000
2 Fuel and oil 20,000 20,000 20,000 20,000 20,000
3 Maintenance 10,000 10,000 10,000 10,000 10,000
4 Stationery 3,000 3,000 3,000 3,000 3,000
5 Labor 60,000 60,000 60,000 60,000 60,000
6 Buckets 3,000 - 1,000 - -
7 Polyethylene bag 1,000 - 1,000 - -
8 Oxygen gas 3,000 3,000 3,000 3,000 3,000
9 Nets - - - 20,000 20,000
10 Feed 5,000 5,000 5,000 5,000 50,000
11 Training for Researchers - - 50,000 - -
(brood stock and seed
production)
12 Practical training on Hand- 30,000 30,000 - - -
sexing
13 Stack holders work shop 50,000 50,000 - 50,000 50,000
14 Total 225,000 201,000 173,000 191,000 790,000
15 Contingency 22,500 20,100 17,300 19,100 79,000
16 Grand total 247,500 221,100 190,300 210,100 869,000

Location: Hawassa fish seed production sub-cnetr/farm.

Project duration: five years (2007- 2011 E.C).

Initiatiotors: Bereket Haji and Dr. Getinet G/Tsadik

Responsible persons: Bereket Haji, Dr. Getinet G/Tsadik, Kasahun Mereke.

Project partners/ collaborators and their role

 Southern Agricultural Research Institute – owner of the project and coordination.

 Hawassa Agricultural Research Center – implementation of the project.
 Regional (SNNPR) Bureau of agriculture – technical support.
 Sebeta National Fish and other Aquatic Recourses Research Center – implementation of the
project
 Hawassa University – technical advice.
Beneficiaries

 SARI and other implementing and supporting organizations

 Researchers

 Farmers

 Agricultural Experts