Chemical and mineral composition of Cyprinus carpio, Labeo rohita and Wallago attu inhabiting river indus in mianwali district

Abstract

The study was carried out to investigate the chemical composition and mineral profile of three fish species namely Cyprinus carpio, Labeo rohita and Wallago attu inhabiting River Indus in Mianwali District. The study followed a 3 x 3 factorial arrangement by involving 3 fish species, each with 3 weight categories (W1≤1.0, W2≤1.5 and W3≤2.0 Kg). Chemical composition was determined by AOAC methods and selected minerals (Ca, K, Mg, Na, P, Cr, Fe, Mn, Ni, Zn, Hg and Pb) in fish muscles were analysed by inductively coupled plasma−optical emission spectroscopy (ICP-OES). It was investigated that crude protein contents in Labeo rohita, Cyprinus carpio and Wallago attu were 74.92, 75.25 and 79.60%, respectively. Fat was reported as 18.67, 19.52 and 13.33 % in Labeo rohita, Cyprinus carpio and wallago attu, respectively. Whereas ash was reported as 4.95, 4.67 and 4.46% and total carbohydrates were investigated as 1.46, 0.56, and 2.60 % in Labeo rohita, Cyprinus carpio and Wallago attu, respectively. Generally metal concentrations increased with increased weight of fish. Cadmium and copper were not detected in any of the analysed fish species. The levels of minerals in selected fish species were within the limits of international standards except Mn, Cr, Hg and Pb. Smaller fishes were high in protein contents and low in fats and minerals, so these should be preferred by the consumers. The higher levels of heavy metals reported in selected fish species are a matter of concern for the health of fish as well as consumers. * Corresponding Author: 