Dietary Effects of Fig (Ficus carica) Extract on Growth, Survival and Hemato-immunological Indices in Great Sturgeon (Huso huso)

Abstract

The present research aimed to evaluate the effects of fig (Ficus carica) extract on growth and hemato-immunological parameters of great sturgeon (Huso huso). Fig extract was added to the basal diet (protein 45.3% and lipid 14.7%) at four levels of 0, 1, 2, and 4 g kg-1 and fed in triplicate groups. A total of 84 juveniles weighing 1078.21±64.07 g were introduced into 12 ponds. Results indicated that dietary inclusion of fig extract at 2 g kg-1 significantly increased the total length, weight gain, average daily gain, specific growth rate, and condition factor of fish compared to other treatments (P<0.05). Food conversion ratio was remarkably (P<0.05) improved in fish that received fig extract at 2 g kg-1. Significant effects were recorded in number of red and white blood cells, values of hematocrit, hemoglobin, lysozyme activity, and immunoglobulin M (IgM) in fish fed diet supplemented with fig extract at 2 g kg-1 (P<0.05). Significant changes were also found in liver enzymes (AST, ALT, and ALP) among treatments. In conclusion, administration of fig extract at 2 g kg-1 can improve hematological parameters and stimulates immune responses as well as enhancement of growth performance in great sturgeon.