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How to Increase the Hatching Rate & Survival of a Catfish Fry

Catfish, once fully mature, are very hardy and can survive in a variety of environments. Catfish eggs, however, are very fragile and will easily die if the conditions are not correct. Hatcheries dedicated to increasing hatching and survival rates must meet the needs of the eggs, which can change daily. A number of factors must be measured, and the environment must be maintained to guarantee the best hatch rates possible.

Instructions

- 1
  Handle the eggs as little as possible. After the spawn, new eggs must be moved to a hatching basket or pond to protect them from being eaten. Catfish eggs are laid in massive bundles, which can be moved by net or by hand. Too much handling can stress the embryos and cause death.
- 2
  Provide enough space in the hatchery baskets. Overcrowding reduces water flow, and the eggs in the center of the mass will begin to die.
- 3
  Maintain the correct water temperature. Each catfish species spawns and hatches at a specific temperature. According to the Southern Regional Aquaculture Center, the optimum temperature for incubating catfish is between 78 and 82 degrees.
- 4
  Prevent the spread of diseases by removing dead eggs. These eggs will appear larger and opaque.
- 5
  Use approved chemicals such as Formalin to treat the eggs for fungus, which is a common reason for embryo die off.
- 6
  Keep the water moving across the eggs. In nature, the male catfish constantly moves fresh water over the eggs with its tail. The hatching basket must have a way to keep water moving over the eggs at all times.
- 7
  Monitor the amount of calcium in the water. Water that lacks calcium will cause low hatch and survival rates. The calcium level should be at least 20 parts per million. Calcium can be introduced into the water using a pump attached to a calcium chloride tank.

Animals & Science