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Local Resident Builds Successful Catfish Farm with Recirculating Aquaculture System
With a passion for fish farming that started in 2005, Vyacheslav Kashirin, a resident of Biysk, has developed a thriving catfish farm. Leveraging information obtained over years of research, Kashirin has managed to produce an average of 600 catfish fry every six months through a unique recirculating aquaculture system (RAS).
The catfish farmer welcomed a "BR" correspondent to share the journey of building this innovative farm.
Self-Sustaining Catfish Farm
Initially, Kashirin had to decide on the most suitable location for growing catfish, with only two options available for a private home - a pond or an RAS system. Kashirin opted for the latter, finding it more manageable due to the more predictable growth of fish and easier feeding control.
The avid fisherman may not have a formal background in aquaculture, but his dedication to the hobby and willingness to learn allowed him to establish a successful farm, with only one instance of fish kill.
Upon observing an osietr farm in Biysk, Kashirin decided to implement best practices in his own operation, minimizing potential issues and ensuring fruitful results.
Vyacheslav proudly showcased the "catfish kingdom," a warm, humid room filled with basins and plenty of curious, whiskered heads eager for feeding time. The intricate system includes settling tanks with biofilters processing fish waste, as well as separate pumps and filters. Kashirin emphasizes the importance of maintaining clean conditions within the RAS.
Catfish Preference and Growth
When the RAS was ready, Kashirin pondered over the type of fish to raise, initially considering carp, grass carp, or bighead carp. However, the water temperature determined the ideal choice - catfish.
Kashirin initially thought about raising trout but soon realized that the cool-water fish wouldn't thrive in the existing temperature range. Catfish, on the other hand, are well-suited for the warm environment provided by the RAS, reaching optimal growth around 24 degrees Celsius.
Having identified the perfect choice, Kashirin purchased Africanclaimer catfish fry, starting his journey as a catfish farmer.
Growth, Feeding, and Expenses
Currently, Kashirav raises each batch of catfish for about 6-7 months, then replenishes fresh fry. He typically obtains his stock in Barnaul, making sure to buy an average of 500-600 individuals to prevent excessive mortality.
Catfish feed on specialized granulated feed, which Kashirin personally claims satisfies all of his fish. The farmer even went as far as tasting the feed himself, referring to its quality as excellent. He notes that good compound feed is produced in Aleisk, like the plant known for its flour production.
Maintaining a catfish farm comes with significant material costs, including expensive feed, special bacteria, and heating expenses during the winter months, which can amount to 9-10 thousand rubles.
Unique Traits of Catfish
Due to their bony fins and aversion to human presence, handling catfish can be challenging, with Kashirin showing off various production injuries. However, the most intriguing aspect of these fish is their propensity to travel great distances compared to other fish species.
In the summer, Kashirin's catfish are known to escape from their basins and roam the yard or garden, at times jumping into sheds from the pool.
Interestingly, catfish can survive out of water for extended periods due to their lung-like organs, able to walk for up to 2 km in extreme situations.
While widely available, catfish represent more than just ordinary fish. Their meat is beneficial and delicious, and reports suggest that Native Americans used catfish slime to heal wounds due to its ability to seal off the skin, keeping out bacteria.
Kashirin currently raises only catfish, with no plans to breed his own fry at this time. However, he is planning to establish a separate pond for breeding once optimal conditions are created.
With his dedication, knowledge, and innovative approach, there is no doubt that Kashirin's catfish farm will continue to thrive in the future.
- Accommodating his love for various aspects of life, Vyacheslav Kashirin also takes great interest in food-and-drink, following the success of his catfish farm with ventures in cultivating unique plant species in his home-and-garden, particularly those that complement his catfish dishes.
- Recognizing the importance of pets in enriching his lifestyle, Kashirin is considering the addition of friendly creatures such as dogs or birds to share the tranquil environment of his self-sustaining farm, ensuring a happy and harmonious lifestyle.
