Aquatic Weeds as an Encouraging Resource of Alternative Feed for the Tilapia Oreochromis mossambicus

Abstract

A series of experiments were carried out to ascertain the nutritional value of commonly available aquatic weed i.e., Lemna (AWL), aquatic hyacinth (AWW) and Azolla (AWA) as alternative feed sources for decreasing the expenditure of feed. Using those aquatic weeds as principal ingredient three (3) isonitrogenous (crude protein-30%) and isocaloric feeds were made. Three batches of juvenile fish of thirty (30) numbers per batch (Average weight-5.1 gm; L- 5.6 cm) were provided with 3different types of prepared feeds with AWL, AWW and AWA. Weight gain, PER (Protein Efficiency Ratio) and GSI (Gonado Somatic Index) are significantly high in the AWL, AWW and AWA fed fish than the NOR. The AWL has suitable amino acid and fat that enhances yield and quality of flesh. The better ω-3/ ω-6ratio is obtained from food supplied experiment trial comparison to control treatment.