Dietary Effects of Iron and Iron Oxide Nanoparticles on Growth, Muscle Composition and Hematological Aspects of Labeo Rohita

Two hundred Labeo rohita fingerlings of uniform size (2-3g), irrespective of sex, were used to investigate the effects of dietary Fe and Fe2O3-NPs on growth, muscle composition and hematological aspects of fish. Fish maintained on 32% crude protein, conventional basal feed was supplemented with Fe & Fe2O3 nanoparticles (each at 0.6 & 0.8 mg/kg supplementation levels) to replicate groups of fish for 90 days. Morphometric characteristics i.e. wet body weight (g) and body length (cm) was recorded fortnightly. It was found that the weight gain, body length, SGR and PER were significantly improved in the fish fed on nano iron oxide supplemented diet (T2). Protein and lipid nutrients retention in the body meat was improved in group of fish fed with nano iron supplemented diet (T3). A significant increase in hemoglobin (Hb) content, red blood cell (RBC) count, white blood cell count (WBC) and hematocrit (Ht) value was noticed throughout the study period when compared to control group. From the results, it was concluded that Fe-NPs@0.6mg/Kg level is more suitable for Labeo rohita with great growth potential and improved muscle composition and hematology as compared to other levels of Fe and Fe2O3 NPs.