Pangasius Farming in the Philippines: How to Grow and Culture Kanduli

April 7, 2024 by Lauro Braganza

Are you interested in learning more about pangasius farming? Do you want to know how to get started and make a profit? This comprehensive guide will provide all the information needed to begin your pangasius farm and make a profit. Read on to find out more!

Introduction to Pangasius Farming

Pangasius farming, or Kanduli farming, has been going on for years in other Asian countries, but it is a relatively new venture in the Philippines. Pangasius is considered a pest in both Laguna Lake and Taal Lake but can be profitable if farmed and used as a livestock feed ingredient as a good source of protein.

Pangasius farming is a type of fish farming where pangasius, a freshwater fish, is cultivated. Pangasius is native to the Mekong River in Southeast Asia and is also known as Vietnamese River Cobbler, Swai, or Tra. Pangasius farming has become popular in recent years due to the high demand for this fish. The flesh of pangasius is white and firm, making it a popular choice for use in fishcakes, curries, and other dishes.

Pangasius farming typically involves raising juvenile fish in ponds or cages before transferring them to larger tanks or ponds for grow-out. Various methods are used to rear pangasius juveniles, including live food such as artemia and daphnia, as well as prepared feeds. Pangasius snowball and can reach weights of up to 4 kgs in 12-18 months.

To maximize profits, pangasius farmers must carefully manage their stock and produce a consistent product. This means keeping track of stocking densities, feeding schedules, water quality, and other factors that can affect the health and growth of the fish. Pangasius is also susceptible to diseases, so proper biosecurity measures must be implemented to prevent outbreaks.

The Different Varieties of Pangasius

Pangasius farming began in Vietnam in the early 1980s. The Vietnamese government encouraged the farming of pangasius to increase the country’s export earnings and to provide employment for rural farmers. Today, Vietnam is the world’s leading producer of farmed pangasius, accounting for about 80 percent of global production. Other major producers include China and Cambodia.

Pangasius are typically farmed in ponds or cages in rivers. They are fed pellets made from grains, soybeans, and other plant-based ingredients. Pangasius grow quickly and can reach a weight of up to 10 kilograms (22 pounds) in just 18 months.

There are three main types of pangasius: white-fleshed, silver-gray, and pinkish-gray. White-fleshed pangasius has the highest market value because it is the tastiest variety. Silver-gray and pinkish-gray fetch a lower price because their flesh tends to be less juicy and flavorful.

Getting Started with Pangasius Farming

Pangasius is a type of freshwater fish native to Southeast Asia. It is also known as the Mekong giant catfish, Thai catfish, or Vietnamese catfish. Due to the high demand for this fish, pangasius farming has become popular in recent years.

Pangasius farming can be done in ponds or cages. The cages should be made of wire mesh and placed in a body of water with a depth of at least 3 meters. The pond should have a water volume of at least 1000 cubic meters.

Pangasius requires a warm climate to grow properly. The water temperature should be between 24 and 28 degrees Celsius. The best time to start pangasius farming is during April and May.

To ensure a good yield, it is essential to use quality fingerlings. Fingerlings are young pangasius that are about 10-12 centimeters in length. They can be obtained from hatcheries or other farmers already growing pangasius.

Once the fingerlings have been obtained, they must be acclimatized to their new environment before being released into the pond or cage. This process takes about two weeks and involves gradually increasing the temperature of the water they are kept in until it matches the temperature of the pond or cage.

After the fingerlings have been acclimatized, they can be released into the pond or cage.

What Are the Requirements for Successful Pangasius Farming?

The Pangasius fish is a freshwater fish that is native to Southeast Asia. It is also known as the Vietnamese River Cobbler, Swai Fish, or Basa Fish. The Pangasius fish is a popular food in Vietnam and other Southeast Asian parts. It is also gaining popularity in the United States and Europe. The Pangasius fish is farmed in ponds and tanks. It is a fast-growing fish that can reach up to four feet (1.2 meters).

Pond requirements for successful Pangasius farming:

The pond must be at least 0.5 hectares (1 acre) in size
The pond must be located in an area with a tropical climate
The pond must have good water quality (low levels of ammonia and nitrites, pH between 6.5 and 7.5)
The pond should have a constant water temperature between 26 and 28 degrees Celsius (79-82 degrees Fahrenheit)

Feed requirements for successful Pangasius farming:

Pangasius fry (baby fish) should be fed live foods such as brine shrimp or bloodworms for the first few weeks of their lives
As they grow, Pangasius fish should be fed pellets or flakes that are specifically designed for increasing carnivorous fish
It is important to ensure that the Pangasius fish get enough protein.

Understanding the Market and Pricing Strategies

To profit from pangasius farming, it is essential to understand the market and pricing strategies. Several factors can affect the price of pangasius, such as global demand, production costs, currency exchange rates, and weather conditions.

It is important to be aware of these factors to make informed decisions about pricing and marketing your fish. For example, if global demand for pangasius is high but production costs are also high, you may want to consider selling your fish at a higher price to make a profit.

If you can produce pangasius at a lower cost than your competitors, you can sell your fish at a lower price and still make a profit. It is also important to monitor currency exchange rates as this can affect the cost of your fish in different markets.

Finally, weather conditions can also impact the price of pangasius. For example, if there is a drought in Vietnam (where most pangasius is produced), the price of pangasius will increase as fewer fish will be available on the market.

Tips for Maximizing Your Profits from Pangasius Farming

Pangasius farming can be a very profitable endeavor if done correctly. To maximize your profits, remember a few key things.
Firstly, it is crucial to choose the right location for your farm. Pangasius prefer warm climates and water temperatures of around 26-28 degrees Celsius. They also require a large amount of space to grow properly.
Secondly, choosing the right type of fish feed for your pangasius is essential. There are many different types of commercially available feeds, so it is important to do some research and find the one that best meets your fish’s needs.
Thirdly, you need to monitor the health of your pangasius stock carefully. Regular check-ups by a qualified veterinarian are essential to identify and treat any health problems quickly and effectively.
Finally, remember that pangasius farming can be a very labor-intensive enterprise. To maximize your profits, having a well-trained and efficient workforce who can carry out all the necessary tasks efficiently and effectively is important.

Potential Challenges of Pangasius Farming

Pangasius farming can be a profitable venture, but farmers should be aware of some potential challenges. The first challenge is the high cost of feed. Pangasius require a high-protein diet, and commercial feeds can be expensive. Farmers should budget carefully and consider reducing feed costs, such as through supplemental feeding with agricultural by-products.

Another challenge is the disease. Pangasius is susceptible to several diseases, including bacterial infections and viruses. Good management practices, such as biosecurity measures and regular health monitoring, are essential to preventing disease outbreaks.

Finally, pangasius farming can be labor-intensive. The fish require frequent cleaning and feeding, and the tanks must be monitored closely for water quality and other issues. Farmers should consider whether they have the time and resources to commit to pangasius farming before starting.

Questions Related to Pangasius

How do you farm pangasius fish?

Primarily reared in ponds and cages, Pangasius fish is stocked at high densities (around 60 -80 fish per m2) and grown for 6 to 8 months before reaching its harvest weight of around 1kg. Males and females grow at similar rates, with the reproduction temperature between 26 and 28°C.

Which feed is best for pangasius fish?

This consists of two ingredients, rice bran, and trash fish, in different ratios to provide good protein content during periods of growth. Farmers have also begun using alternative protein sources such as soybean, corn, dried fish, meat bone meal, and poultry.

What is the lifespan of pangasius fish?

Its growth rate is rapid, and it can live in the wild for as long as 20 years. After around two months of breeding, it reaches about 10-12cm long and 14-15 grams in weight.

How long does it take to grow pangasius fish?

In India, pangasius can be farmed under monoculture or polyculture with carp species. The species can grow to 1 to 1.5 kg in one year, and typical annual yields are around 10 to 15 tons per hectare.

Is pangasius like tilapia?

Tilapia and pangasius are freshwater farming whitefish for consumption in the global market. These two fish have similar characteristics and originated in tropical regions. They quickly adapt to various production systems and can also accept low-quality feed.

How big do pangasius grow?

Full-grown adults can reach 300 centimeters (9.8 ft) SL in length and weigh up to 300 kg (660 lb). However, the fish’s length is more commonly around 2 meters.

What is pangasius fish in the Philippines?

Pangasius (scientific name: Pangasianodan hypophthalmus) is a tasty, soft-fleshed freshwater fish introduced to the Philippines years ago from Vietnam. It was initially introduced as an ornamental fish, but its food qualities became more appreciated.

Can I eat pangasius every day?

Regarding the preservatives and antibiotics found in the rejected fish, a person would have to consume between 0.6 and 303 kg of pangasius each day before their health would be at risk.

Is pangasius sustainable?

Pangasius is a sustainable fish by nature. That is because of its low feed conversion ratio.

What is the natural feed for pangasius fish?

Many people think that Pangasius fish are real carnivores that predominantly eat fish. The truth is that Pangasius are more like herbivores, as they have a 92% plant-based diet. Their diet consists mainly of rice bran, vegetables, soybean meal, and similar feed.

Is pangasius a healthy fish?

Pangasius is a healthy choice for families, particularly for people who pay special attention to a healthy diet—some characteristics: a source of Omega 3. rich in protein.

Is catfish the same as pangasius?

It was once called “catfish” (and many other names — some unprintable). When it is sold in America, it is often called “fish.” Let me introduce you. It makes its home in the waters of Southeast Asia. You can call it Pangasius.

Conclusion

Pangasius farming is a great way to make a profit. With the right equipment and knowledge, anyone can start up their pangasius farm and reap the rewards of delicious seafood for years to come. We have provided you with all the information you need to get started on your journey, from identifying suitable habitats to harvesting and storing your catches. Use this guide as an introduction to pangasius farming so that you can learn more about it and run your business successfully.