Apparent digestibility of dried azolla powder incorporated diets in rohu Labeo rohita (Hamilton, 1822)

Abstract

Dry matter and nutrient digestibility of dried azolla powder incorporated in the traditional feed was evaluated in advanced fingerlings of Labeo rohita (Hamilton, 1822) reared in aerated indoor plastic tanks. The fish were fed nearly isocaloric diets formulated to contain azolla powder, replacing the main ingredients, groundnut cake and rice bran of the Control diet at 10, 20, 30 and 40% levels. Total dry matter digestibility and major nutrient digestibility were estimated using acid insoluble ash as the marker. Digestibility (%) of dry matter, protein, fat and nitrogen free extract (NFE) showed a declining trend with increased azolla incorporation. Only protein and fat digestibility of 20% azolla diet was comparable with that of the Control, with higher incorporation levels resulting in significant reduction in the digestibility values. Keywords: Alternate protein source, Feed ingredient, Fish feed, Rohu