It grows to a marketable size within 8–12 months but matures at 4–6 months of age. Consequently, growth retardation was observed due toreduced feed consumption Saepithakkiat and Leenanond, 1984. and utilization of
energy portions for gonad development and reproduction activities Cassani and Caton,1986.. Therefore, culture of sterile fish may enhance growth after maturation andthereby increase yield.