Abstract
Abstract Feeding experiments were designed to compare the growth rate of redbelly tilapia (Tilapia zilli) fed four aquatic plants: Najas marina, Egeria densa, Myriophyllum exalbescens, and Chara sp. Fish ranging in size from 9 to 11 cm total length were divided into five groups, four groups each receiving a plant and one group receiving no food. Redbelly tilapias consumed more Chara sp. than any of the other plants. The consumption rate was 79% body weight/d. Najas marina was second to Chara sp., being consumed at a rate of 67% body weight/d. Fish growth on diets containing Chara sp. or N. marina did not differ greatly. Fish fed E. densa nearly maintained their initial weight although they consumed very little of this plant. Fish fed M. exalbescens lost weight, as did the unfed group. The results indicate that control of Chara sp. and N. marina in small lakes and ponds by redbelly tilapia may be possible.
Sign-in/Register to access full text options 
Free) 
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a call
