Water temp affects fish metabolism and therefore growth rate. But, can anybody say by how much? Anyone run at dif temps with same species to see how much dif there really is? I have read that at higher temps u need to feed more and do more water changes. I am willing to do that if the payoff is a fish that grows noticeably quicker. My question concerns my 240 that has a dat, some silver dols, clown loaches and soon a ck. I am trying to decide on a temp somewhere between about 74 and 81. Will there be any dif at either end of this range? I can speculate, but would appreciate anyone who knows from experience clueing me in.
Effects of temp on growth?
- Thread starter lujor
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i have noticed that with my temps at 86f my tsns and aros have a much higher growth rate...my tsns grew over 20" in 5-6 months...my silver aro was over 24" after 10 months and i got them at 3"
I DO know that it helps their metabolism and makes for more lively fish. Most of my tanks are in the 80 range. I believe it shortens their lifespan as well. I wish I could give you more info, I'll be following to see what others have to say!
Unless your selling them at adult age or growing them to put in with bigger fish, I would care less. But yes higher temps will increase their metabolisms which will mean they will eat more often if given the chance. This also means the tank will need changed more aften that a tank at 70F with sparingly fed fish compared to 84F fish fed 3-5X a day.
So, no harm if I use higher temps to get them big for a year or two then back it off by up to 10degrees? I would do so gradually, but do you think it would have any ill effects?
Personally no not at all. It would be like an extended summer for the fish essentially. Obviously some fish depending on where their at their "seasons" just might mean a torrential downpour for several weeks which would increase insects and etc. for them to eat.
Going to raise temp to about 80 and give it at least a few months. Weekly 33% water changes with media rinsing and 2x/day feeding of varied diet. Will post progress.