Are coupled aquaponic systems good for catfish welfare?
In his study, Mr Bassmann set up two African catfish systems – one a floating raft aquaponics system and the other a RAS control.
Cucumbers were grown on each system and water parameters were measured daily.
Mr Bassmann then took blood samples from the caudal vessels, recording plasma cortisol and blood glucose levels.
He also examined external injuries on the fish and measured fish growth performance.
In terms of external injuries, the fish in the aquaponics system fared much better, with less injuries reported and many with no injuries.
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