Fish is a very healthy and nutritious protein, which is popular around the world. According to Wikipedia, industrial fish farming provides almost half the seafood around the world and this is expected to increase.

Fish is a nutritious protein source that is also rich in nutrients like omega-3 fatty acids that improve our heartbeat and lower our blood cholesterol. Farmed fish has been playing an important role in meeting global protein demands. Raising fish at home could open up many profitable opportunities today. Home raised fish could easily be sold for profit around the neighbourhood or restaurant.

Fish farming is a very old method of agriculture, which produces a steady source of protein which can be grown or nurture either in your backyard, aquarium or through a fish tank

Useful Catfish Farming Equipment 

Catfish farming is a specialized sector of aquaculture and it requires specialized catfish farming equipment. The equipment needed for fish farming perform different functions making the farming experience easier.

Without proper equipment the catfish farmer would struggle with basic tasks. Tasks like counting the fish, harvesting, and proper oxygenation of the water. Other tasks that need specialized equipment is recycling water, evacuation and filling of water. However, Fish farmers fabricate some of the equipment while other are bought.

Types of fish farming equipment

Large and small backyard fish farms use similar equipment to carry out daily tasks and functions. The tasks include breeding the fish, feeding both automatic/manual and many more.

Catfish farming Equipment

The pond

The pond is the first and most important equipment needed for catfish production. The pond is either an above ground pond made from plastic, concrete or block and dugout pond.

Plumbing and Water pumps

The plumbing works require plastic or iron pipes located at the inlet and outlet. The pipe is connected to the water pump for easy filling and evacuation of water.

The water pump is very important because the fish farmer needs an easy mechanism to perform water change functions. The water pump is either solar pump or electric pump for better performance and easy maintenance.

Aerators

A major asset is the aerators because it aids the fish grow faster and healthier in a relatively short period. Aerators come in different shapes, performance and functionality depending on the size of the pond and number of fish.

Another type is the waste water aerator, air/oxygen aerator and filter medium.

Automatic Fish feeder

The automatic feeder feeds the fish at predetermined times. This equipment eliminates hand feeding and it is quite effective.

The fish feeder can only work properly if the water is mechanically recycled.  The reason is because if the fish feeder continues to feed the fish while the water is saturated and dirty it can kill the fish.

 Dip nets

The fish farmer needs different sizes of dip nets to perform different functions. The nets are useful when catching catfish for weighing or sales.

Seine reels

Seine reels sink to the bottom of large ponds and are used to collect fish. Other useful equipment includes fish transporter, water quality tester, handling and grading equipment.

List of Catfish farming Equipment

1. Pond

2. Handling and grading equipment

3.Water quality tester

4. Fish transporter

5. Dip nets

6. Seine reels

7. Water pumps

8. Automatic feeder

9.Aerator

10. Pipes and a dedicated generator

Fish farmers who are cash strapped can fabricate some equipment, use basic types and still grow large table fish.

Factors to consider when planning a pond

Ponds are worthy additions to any garden. The soothing sound of running water and almost hypnotic movements of beautiful fish can help relieve the stresses of modern day life, which is why many people choose to create a pond in their garden or outdoor space.

But before you jump in and start digging out your garden to make way for a pond, consider these important factors first:

1. Watch out for surface runoff

Even if you don’t use pesticides or fertiliser in your garden, you do not want your pond to be in a place where it gets filled with runoff water when it rains. Excess water causes a pond to flood and may contain chemicals or debris that could be harmful to your pond’s ecosystem.

2. Choose an enjoyable location

Some people choose to install ponds where they’ve got a bit of extra space, not where they will be most appreciated, unfortunately. Ideally, your pond wants to be in a spot where you can enjoy it. Somewhere you can sit and watch your fish or listen to the flow of water.

3. Consider nearby trees

Trees are a big consideration when building pond. That’s because their roots can make digging the necessary hole much more than difficult than it need be. Also, trees drop leaves, which can fall in your pond and decay, potentially harming the plants and wildlife that inhabit it. That’s why placing your pond away from overhanging trees also reduces maintenance.

4. When it comes to ponds, size does matter

You often hear people saying, “I wish I’d made my pond a bit bigger”. Unfortunately, it’s not so easy once you’ve finished the project, which is why you need to consider the size before you start. Furthermore, bigger ponds are actually easier to maintain. That’s because they hold more water and nature, to some extent, can take over and manage the environment, with less intervention from you.

5. Understand local regulations

To always be on the safe side, you should check with your local council whether there are any restrictions or regulations you need to be aware of before you begin construction. A local pond firm or landscaping business should know the legalities in your area, which is why many people choose to hire the services of a professional company to create their dream pond.