CRESCIMENTO E ALOMETRIA CORPORAL DO PINTADO CRIADO EM TANQUES DE GEOMEMBRANA COM SISTEMA DE RECIRCULAÇÃO DE ÁGUA

Abstract

The present study aimed to analyze the body yield and allometry of catfish (Pseudoplatystoma spp.) raised in a water recirculation system in elevated geomembrane tanks. The research was justified by the importance of understanding the relationship between size, morphometry, and yield to ensure the production sustainability this type of fish. The study was carried out at the Federal Institute of Mato Grosso do Sul (IFMS), Coxim Campus, Coxim - MS. The catfish were acquired from a fish farm located in the city of Coxim-MS and transported to the IFMS aquaculture laboratory. The experiment began with the random distribution of 120 catfish with an average weight of 10.39±3.28g and an average length of 11.64±0.95cm. The correlations between independent and dependent variables were calculated using Pearson’s linear correlation coefficient. Additionally, tests for normality, homoscedasticity of variances, analysis of variance (ANOVA), linear plateau, and Tukey's mean test with a significance level of 5% were applied. For data analysis it was used the free statistical software R-2.15. According to the analysis of variance, no effect of weight class on skin-on fillet yield was found (P>0.05). On the other hand, a linear effect of slaughter weight on yield of portions and processing waste was observed. The data showed that statistical development occurred linearly, but the fish, upon reaching a weight of +/- 1.2 kg, exhibited a plateau effect where fillet yield was above average. Considering sales, this information helps producers know the best period for slaughter, thereby achieving better results. The research provided data about the allometric parameters of Pseudoplatystoma specimens. The allometric growth showed positive results, as did the correlation coefficients. This information is essential for understanding the growth pattern of catfish raised in a water recirculation system. The study yielded results that producers can rely on to determine the best weight for fish slaughter, avoiding financial losses in fish production. With economic parameters in place, the selling price can be competitive in the market, given that fish consumption in Brazil is still below expectations, and one of the determining factors for the consumption of this protein is market price.