AQUACULTURE OF AFRICAN LUNGFISH Protopterus aethiopicus IN UGANDA: CAPTIVE BREEDING AND LARVAL REARING

The African lungfish (Protopterus aethiopicus) supports many communities in Uganda, and has aquaculture potential. It's an air-breathing fish that can withstand stressful water quality conditions in the wild. Fish farmers can access from natural environments, which is not environmentally sustainable. This study reveals the genetic diversity of P. aethiopicus collected from Lakes Wamala, Kyoga, Nawampasa, Bisina, Edward and George, which guide its aquaculture and biodiversity. Lungfish fertilized eggs can hatch at a range of 24-32C but optimally at 27C. Hatchability in captivity is 21.7 ± 7.2 % (SD) while its mean fecundity (wild brood) =1922.41 ±1227.6. Salt and temperature improves hatchability. Larvae fed on decapsulated Artemia sp. and microdiet (35-57% Crude Protein) indicate a fish can be raised on artificial commercial diets. Developing low-cost sustainable breeding techniques will contribute to improve nutrition and livelihoods of vulnerable communities