Objectives:  To (1) evaluate the polyculture of yellow perch in cages with freshwater prawns in ponds.  (2) Evaluate the effect of culture temperature on growth and survival of yellow perch.

Accomplishments:  Study 1 indicates that the polyculture of yellow perch in cages within prawn production ponds is feasible.  Data indicate that increasing yellow perch stocking densities up to 320 fish/m3 actually increased weight gain and improved feed conversion.  Using this system a one acre pond produced over 900 lbs of freshwater prawns ($6.50/lb) and 450 lbs of yellow perch ($3.00/lb).  Study 2 indicates that the optimal culture temperature for growth, survival and feed conversion is approximately 24 degrees C.  At 20 degrees C survival and feed conversion are good but growth rate is reduced.  At 28 degrees C growth, survival and feed conversion were all reduced. 

Benefits:  This research evaluates a unique polyculture combination that has not previously been evaluated.  It increases total pond production and allows construction and operating cost to be spread over additional and diversified production.  Temperature results establish optimal culture temperatures and growth implications.