Feed Conversion Ratio Calculator

FCR is almost always expressed on a live weight basis unless specifically stated otherwise. Carcass-based FCR (also called dressed weight FCR) will always be higher because the carcass is a fraction of the live weight. Always confirm which basis benchmarks are using before comparing.

No. FCR counts only solid or pelleted feed. Water consumption is tracked separately because it does not contribute to body mass in the same direct way. Adequate clean water is critical for feed intake and digestion, but water volume is not included in the FCR numerator.

In aquaculture, FCR can approach but not fall below 1.0 because fish retain water and minerals that inflate the apparent gain relative to dry feed inputs. Values below 1.0 are occasionally reported for fish fed wet or moist diets but are not meaningful on a dry-matter basis.

Address health and parasite load first - subclinical disease is the largest hidden FCR cost and the quickest to fix. Then review feed quality, ensure feeders are designed to minimize wastage, maintain temperature within the comfort zone, and review stocking density to reduce competition.