Optimal Fish Feeding Strategy Through Behaviour Analysis for Dynamic Influencing Factors

Pangasius catfish farming is a significant aquaculture industry in Southeast Asia, expected to make up 80% of global production in 2022, understanding the dynamics of factors affecting fish feeding behaviour is crucial. A 60-day experiment in Cambodia's cages aimed to establish an optimal feeding strategy for Pangasius fish farming, factoring in variables like weather conditions (sunny, cloudy, rainy), pH levels, temperature, and dissolved oxygen. We address this investigation through a critical research question: What should be the optimal feed intake rate of Pangasius fishes under varying conditions? Literature suggests that feed intake is influenced by temperature and sunlight, with higher intake in warm, sunny conditions, but excess sunlight can induce stress. Cloudy and rainy weather tends to reduce feeding and growth. Our data analysis revealed that factors like temperature, pH, and dissolved oxygen affect optimal feeding rates. On sunny days, higher feeding rates are feasible, but caution is needed to avoid overfeeding. Conversely, on cloudy or rainy days, it's advisable to reduce feeding rates to prevent waste accumulation and maintain water quality. This factors-based feeding strategy can enhance feed efficiency, profitability, and sustainability in Pangasius aquaculture.