How much feed is needed to grow a farmed fish?
What affects feed conversion?
Many farmed fish can achieve an FCR close to 1 under well-managed conditions, although results vary between species, farms and production cycles. Water temperature, fish health, feed quality, appetite, feeding practices and feed losses can all affect the result.
FCR figures should therefore be interpreted in relation to the species, production period and calculation method used. Comparisons with poultry, cattle or other animals also need to use data calculated on the same basis.
Other measures of efficiency
Feed conversion is an important measure of production efficiency, but it does not provide the complete picture. Harvest yield, nutrient use, survival, energy use and the environmental performance of the feed and farming system are also relevant.
Harvest yield considers how much of the animal becomes food. Because it varies by species, product form and processing method, comparisons should use the same definition and calculation basis.
Skretting develops feeds for specific species, life stages and production conditions. Feed formulation, pellet quality and technical support can help producers manage feed use and farm performance. Results still depend on farm conditions, health and feeding management.
Frequent questions on feed management
Is one feed sufficient for all aquaculture species?
No. Fish and shrimp have different nutritional requirements depending on their species, life stage, health status and production conditions. Feeds are formulated for defined nutritional needs and intended uses rather than as one solution for every species or stage of production.
How much feed is needed to grow a farmed fish?
The amount of feed needed depends on the species, life stage, feed, health, farming conditions and feeding management. Feed conversion ratio, or FCR, describes the amount of feed used to produce one kilogram of weight gain. A lower FCR means that less feed is required.
Can efficient feed management help improve the sustainability of aquaculture?
Effective feed management can help producers use feed more efficiently, manage waste and support farm performance. Results depend on the species, feed, farming system, health, environment and feeding practices.