Successful growth of pike fingerlings (Esox lucius L.) on pellet at artificial condition

Abstract: Previous attempts have shown that nursing pike on pellet is possible, but cannibalism is a decisive factor in this species. Pike fry were adapted to feeding with an artificial diet. In order to determine whether smaller individuals are suitable for further intensive mass culture, pike fingerlings of the same stock were graded into large and small size groups and raised separately for 4 weeks. Specific growth rates (SGR) and feed conversion rates (FCR) of the large and the small size groups were close to each other (SGR=3.40±0.04 and FCR=1.10±0.11 for the large group and SGR=3.69±0.1 and FCR=1.02±0.14 for the small group). Adequate grading and sufficient feeding proved to be suitable tools for minimizing cannibalism and providing good growth. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]