Higher stocking densities result in higher total yields. Five-inch catfish fingerlings reached 1.16 lb at a density of 3,500/acre; 1.09 lb at 7,000 fish/acre; 0.89 lb at 10,500/acre; and 0.83 lb at 14,000/acre, in single-batch (Southworth et al. 2006). When the price of important inputs like feed go up, it makes economic sense to stock at lower rates so that fish grow faster and can be sold more quickly.
Southworth, B.E., C. Engle, N. Stone. 2006. Effect of Multiple-Batch Channel Catfish, Ictalurus punctatus, Stocking Density and Feeding Rate on Water Quality, Production Characteristics, and Costs. Journal of World Aquaculture Society 37(4):452 - 463.
