A recent study by researchers at the Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology (KNUST) has uncovered a fascinating survival mechanism of the African catfish (Clarias gariepinus), revealing that the species significantly increases its air-breathing rate in response to high levels of carbon dioxide in water. The study found that when exposed to 40 mg/L of CO₂, the African catfish nearly tripled its air-breathing frequency, demonstrating its ability to adapt to challenging aquatic conditions.
This discovery provides crucial insights into the species’ respiratory adjustments under environmental stress. Lead researcher, Dr. Kwasi Adu Obirikorang, emphasized the practical implications of these findings, particularly for fish farmers.
He explained that catfish rely more on atmospheric oxygen when water oxygen levels are low or temperatures rise. “Farmers should prioritize proper aeration in fish ponds to reduce stress and mortality, especially in overcrowded conditions,” he advised.
The research also noted that as temperatures increase, catfish exhibit a heightened breathing rate, signaling the need for careful monitoring of seasonal variations to prevent overheating. By implementing these insights, aquaculture practitioners can enhance fish survival rates, improve productivity, and promote sustainable farming practices.