Comparative juvenile performance assessment of genetically improved Nile tilapia ( <i>Oreochromis niloticus</i> L.) under commercial conditions in Bangladesh

Two on-farm juvenile performance trials were conducted at a hatchery in Bangladesh to compare genetically improved strain of farmed Nile tilapia (GIFT) and local (LS) produced by commercial operators. A 21-day early nursing trial was five replicate hapas followed 27-day advanced six hapas. The mean feed conversion ratios (FCR), specific growth rates (SGR), individual final weights, production yields survival calculated for both strains. During the trial, GIFT fry rate overall yield significantly (p < 0.05) greater than LS values, which contrast demonstrated better FCR SGR. Improved terms FCR, SGR during weights 78% fish (2.26 g 1.27 respectively). Economic analysis indicated net return 84% that end period, this difference had grown further such generated gross over double LS. results from survey grow-out farmers suggested producers poor, medium better-off backgrounds agreed performed traditional strains is beneficial aquaculture Bangladesh. However, also indicate there may be propensity appreciate potential benefits poorer farmers.