Raising Catfish In A Barrel

(some may find this info useful . . . )

By Philip and Joyce Mahan

The new series of reader research projects starts with an
exciting plan to turn grass clippings into organic fish.

After some study and experimentation, we have set up a productive food chain--
table scraps to earthworms to catfish--in our back yard. The project is satisfactory
in many respects, utilizing waste materials to produce fresh fish for food and at
the same time yielding ample compost for a small garden. The material cost is
minimal. The whole operation can be set up for less that $15.00. The equipment
occupies only about 12 square feet of space, and the entire assembly can be
easily moved if necessary.

The materials can be very simple: Two 55-gallon steel drums, three panes of
glass 24 inches square, and a medium-sized aquarium air pump. One of the
drums will serve as a tank for the fish, oxygen being supplied by the air pump;
and the second drum should be cut in half to provide two bins for the worms. The
panes of glass are used as covers for the worm bins and fish tank, and for ease
and safety in handling can be framed with scrap lumber.

We chose catfish because they are readily available in our part of Alabama, and
reach eating size in a summer. Various small members of the sunfish family,
such as bluegill or bream, would also be suitable.

While we readily admit that our plan has no commercial possibilities, we know
that we can produce, for our own table, tasty fresh fish that is uncontaminated
and costs practically nothing, both considerations being highly relevant at this
time.

Full Article HERE