Assessment of the captive culture of Kasenye Lampeye as an ornamental fish.

Abstract

The study investigated the feasibility of captive culture of Kasenye lampeye (Lacustricola kassenjiensis), a colorful killi fish from Kasenyi stream as an ornamental fish species. The study looked at suitable conditions for potential ornamental fish keeping in Uganda. The study assessed the change in weight and length of kasenye lampeye in captivity, as well as water quality monitoring for six weeks.

Fish samples were collected randomly from Kasenyi stream in Fort Portal, Uganda, using a 20 millimeter-mesh-sized scoop net and transported to the indoor aquarium facility at Makerere University for further study. Water quality parameters i.e. pH, dissolved oxygen (DO), and water temperature were initially measured from the stream and later compared to rearing conditions in captivity using a multi-parameter probe.

Acclimatization was done for the captured fish samples in a 1000-liter aquarium for one week before the start of the experiment. Morphological characteristics (length and weight) were used to identify and study the samples with the help of a NARO fish guide portal. The management practices in the aquarium included removing and counting dead fish promptly to prevent contamination. The fish were fed daily with commercial powdered feed, and feeding habits were monitored. An aerator was used to ensure sufficient oxygen supply in the aquariums during the run of the experiment.

The results revealed an increase in weight for the fish i.e. from an initial general length of 2.0cm to 4.2cm by the 6th week; and an initial weight of 0.48g to 0.71g by the 6th week. There was slight variation of water quality parameters in week 4, hence reduced the fish weight. The results emphasized the crucial role of maintaining optimal conditions to ensure the well-being and growth of ornamental fish. Kasenye lampeye best survived in basic and neutral water conditions. These findings contribute significant insights into the status of keeping the kasenye lampeye as ornamental fish in Uganda.