Stocking density, growth, and survival of Hoplobatrachus occipitalis froglets in captivity

Stocking density is one of the most important factors to consider when rearing anurans. The aim of this study was to evaluate the effects of stocking density on the survival and growth of Hoplobatrachus occipitalis (Günther, 1858) froglets reared in captivity. The experiment was conducted in circular concrete basins for 42 days. Four (04) stocking densities (40, 80, 120 and 160 individuals/m3) represented by D1, D2, D3 and D4 respectively, were tested in triplicate on froglets with an average weight of 0.91 ± 0.01 g. Froglets were fed with commercial Coppens feed (protein 56%, diameter 0.8 mm). The results showed that final mean weight and specific growth rate were significantly affected by the froglet densities (p < 0.05). The recorded survival rates ranged from 66.66 to 100%. With the exception of D1 and D3 where a difference was observed, the survival rates of the other treatments were not significantly (p > 0.05) affected by the stocking density. The best survival rates and weight gains were recorded at D2, where the best growth performance was noted. Therefore, the most appropriate stocking density for rearing H. occipitalis froglets in concrete basins is D2.