Comparative evaluation of condition factor and hemato-biochemical reference intervals of Pangas (Pangasianodon hypophthalmus, Sauvage, 1878) reared in different culture systems

The reference intervals (RIs) for clinical parameters of fish are crucial to identify abnormal test results. The well-established RIs for hemato-biochemical analytes are lacking for Pangas (Pangasianodon hypophthalmus) reared in different culture systems. The present study aimed to analyze the condition factor and generate RIs for hemato-biochemical parameters in diverse culture systems, which are very critical to improve fish welfare and production. Briefly, the fish sampling was conducted from three different fish farms practicing extensive (no supplemented food with a relatively low stocking density of 10–15 fish/m3), semi-intensive (supplementary feed provided with a stocking density of 80 fish/m3), and intensive culture systems (feed-based culture with a high stocking density of 100–150 fish/m3). Results showed that Fulton’s condition factor for fish reared in an intensive culture system was significantly higher (0.98 ± 0.18), followed by semi-intensive (0.85 ± 0.30) and extensive (0.72 ± 0.16) systems. Hematological parameters such as hemoglobin, total erythrocyte count, and packed cell volume were significantly (P < 0.05) higher in the semi-intensive system. Total leucocyte count and mean corpuscular hemoglobin were significantly (P < 0.05) higher in the intensive system. Serum biochemical parameters, including glucose, cortisol, protein profile, and lipid profile, were significantly (P < 0.05) high in the intensive and semi-intensive systems. The study indicated that the condition factor and haemato-biochemical parameters could serve as indicators of the health status of P. hypophthalmus. The intensive and semi-intensive culture systems of P. hypophthalmus demonstrated better health indicators compared to the extensive system. The established normative database can ensure the correct assessment of health and the growth of P. hypophthalmus in diverse culture systems. The reference intervals established for hemato-biochemical parameters in the current study can provide valuable benchmarks for monitoring the fish in different culture systems, enabling effective management and reducing economic losses associated with stress-related issues.