Effect of Stocking Density on Growth Performance and Economic Return of Nile Tilapia ( <i>Oreochromis niloticus</i> ) in Non‐Aerated Semi‐Intensive Ponds of Bangladesh

ABSTRACT This study evaluated the effects of stocking density on growth performance, survival, production and economic return of Nile tilapia ( Oreochromis niloticus ) cultured in non‐aerated semi‐intensive ponds in Bangladesh. Four stocking densities (200, 230, 260 and 300 pcs decimal −1 ) were tested in triplicate over an 8‐month culture period in Mirsarai, Chattogram. Water quality parameters remained within suitable ranges throughout the experimental period. Growth performance was significantly influenced by stocking density, with fish stocked at 200 and 230 pcs decimal −1 achieving higher final body weight, weight gain and specific growth rate compared to those stocked at 260 and 300 pcs decimal −1 . Mortality increased progressively with increasing stocking density. Production per unit area (kg decimal −1 ) was highest at 230 pcs decimal −1 , indicating an efficient utilization of pond resources at this density. Economic analysis showed that net revenue increased with stocking density; however, benefit–cost ratios did not differ significantly among treatments, indicating that higher stocking densities did not improve overall economic efficiency despite generating greater absolute returns. Overall, the results indicate that an intermediate stocking density of 230 pcs decimal −1 provides the most favourable balance between biological performance, production efficiency and economic viability for non‐aerated semi‐intensive tilapia culture in Bangladesh. These findings offer practical guidance for farmers and contribute to the development of sustainable tilapia‐farming strategies under semi‐intensive conditions.