Backyard Aquaponics
A place to discuss aquaponics

I searched around but didn't see any info on this but...

I have a 500 gallon tank that is stocked to about half what the "max" density is. I have 24 Channel Catfish and from what I've read, I can fit about 40-50 in a tank that size, if I didn't care how happy they were.

Assuming I would be harvesting the fish after 12-18 months, would it make sense to add perhaps 5-6 fingerlings at a time every 3-6 months? If they were the same species, would the older and larger fish predate the fingerlings?

My intent of course is to have a long-term stock of fish that are reaching harvesting size continually, rather than all in a big batch.

It should work fine, as long as you have the filtration to keep up with the fish.

I've never had catfish, but I don't think they'll eat each other, but it does depend on the type of fish. Something like Murray Cod wouldn't last for a minute before the older ones had a snack.

I think the rule for the fish is if the fingerlings can fit in the mouth whole, then they'll eat it.