Performance, physiology, and intestinal histology of Piaractus brachypomus reared at two stocking densities in recirculating aquaculture system and biofloc technology
摘要
This study compared the effects of two culture systems, recirculating aquaculture system (RAS) and biofloc technology (BFT), and two stocking densities, D₀.₆ and D₁.₂ (0.65 and 1.29 kg m⁻3) on the performance, physiology, and intestinal health of juvenile Piaractus brachypomus over 60 days. RAS demonstrated increased fish growth performance with higher growth rates, feed conversion, and higher erythrocyte counts. BFT showed advantages in intestinal health parameters, including enhanced lamina propria integrity, increased goblet cell density, and higher total protein and globulin levels. Lower density (0.65 kg m⁻3) favored individual growth, while higher density (1.29 kg m⁻3) maximized total biomass production. These findings provide practical guidance for P. brachypomus farming, indicating that RAS systems are more suitable when growth performance is prioritized, whereas BFT systems offer advantages for fish health and welfare. Density selection should be based on specific production objectives.