FCR (Feed Conversion Ratio) = kg feed / kg fish gain. It is one of the most important KPIs in aquaculture: it drives feed cost, water quality, sludge production and carbon footprint. Lower FCR means more growth per kilogram of feed — and usually lower OPEX and environmental load.
Typical ranges (orientation)
- Salmonids in good RAS/cages: often about 1.0–1.3.
- Marine species (sea bass etc.): often about 1.2–1.8.
- Tilapia / Clarias: often about 1.2–1.8 depending on system.
- Shrimp (L. vannamei): often about 1.1–1.8.
What drives FCR?
- Temperature near the species optimum.
- Feed quality, pellet size and feeding strategy.
- Oxygen, CO₂, TAN/nitrite and stress level.
- Density, health and size variation.
FCR is not only economics: every kilogram of feed drives TAN, TSS, oxygen demand and sludge. See feed types, feeding systems, ammonia and sludge.
See also