Technical manual for artificial propagation of the indonesian catfish

Although 14 pangasiid species have been recognised in the Indonesian ichtyofauna, Pangasianodon hypophtalms initially introduces from Thailand was until recently the only pangasiid cultivated in Indonesia. Aiming to utilize local biological diversity, the potentialities of Indonesian Pangasius species for fish culture have been investigated since 1996 throughout the "Catfish Asia" research program supported by European Union. Among these species, Pangasius djambal Bleeker, 1846, was pre-selected as a new aquaculture candidate for its large size, for its broad geographic distribution and for its popularity among consumers from Sumatra or other Indonesian islands. Zootechnical evaluation of this species has demonstrated its valuable characteristics for aquaculture. Artificial breeding was firstly achieved in 1997.

Based on six years of working experience, this technical manual attempts to provide fish farmers and scientists with elements on the biology of P. djambal and all technical guidelines allowing to succeed in its artificial propagation. After providing an identification key to P. djambal, pratical aspects related to fish transportation, broodstock management, induced spawning, artificial fertilization, egg incubation, larval rearing and fish health management are developed.