Abstract:
Stunted growth has been reported by many Nile tilapia earthen pond farmers as a major problem that’s hindering their success. Generally, as a result of rampant stunted growth, very low yields from production of very small low-value fish of different generations, which result into very little revenue obtained from such farms has been reported to demoralize farmers. The aim of the study was to identify and evaluate the causes of stunted growth in earthen pond farmed Nile tilapia (Oreochromis niloticus) and its implication on the profitability and productivity of selected farms.The study established that stunted growth in earthen pond Nile tilapia (Oreochromis niloticus)in the selected fish farms in Kamuli district was mainly caused by poor feeding (inadequate feeding), over stocking, poor water quality management, poor quality seed/fingerlings, inadequate technical knowledge and poor pond fertilization techniques. Farms that were more affected by stunted growth had poor yields and generated less income as compared to their counterparts that had some knowledge on how to counteract it. Training on feeding, and other good pond husbandry practices such as predator control, water quality management, sampling and grading, were recommended to create awareness and preparation of farmers to mitigate stunted growth and its effects. The government should also establish fish hatcheries in the district to provide good quality fingerlings to farmers, a feed producing plant to avail good quality feeds, and also employ enough fisheries extension workers, to equip farmers with relevant knowledge on good fish farm management practices.
