Polyculture of Nile Tilapia (Oreochromis niloticus) and Black Tiger Prawn (Penaeus monodon) in Floating Netcages

Abstract

Polyculture of Nile Tilapia (Oreochromis niloticus) and Black Tiger Prawn (Penaeus monodon) was conducted using floating netcages made of B-net at Tiniguiban Cove, Puerto Princesa City. Three different treatments were used. T1: monoculture of O. niloticus, T2: monoculture of P. monodon, and T3: polyculture of O. niloticus and P. monodon, at a stocking density of 10 pcs/m3. O. niloticus and P. monodon were fed with commercial pellets and trashfish, respectively.

Results of the study showed a mean percentage increase in weight and length of O. niloticus in mono- and polyculture by 105% and 33%, respectively. P. monodon in both culture methods, on the other hand attained a mean percentage weight increase of 200% during the 60 days culture period.
No significant difference between the two culture methods was found for mean body weight gain, total length gain, biomass, specific growth rate, and condition factor of the two species. The FCR of tilapia in polyculture (4.86) however is better than in monoculture (13.85). While the survival rate of P. monodon in monoculture (73.33%) was significantly higher than in polyculture (60.0%).

The total yield from polyculture of O. niloticus and P. monodon was better compared with monoculture of O. niloticus but not if compared to monoculture of P. monodon. The competition index is not conclusive about the feasibility P. monodon and O. niloticus polyculture.