Effects of dietary polyunsaturated fatty acid enriched diets on breeding, embryonic development and organogenesis of Rohu carp, Labeo rohita (Hamilton 1822)

Abstract

There is a considerable interest in supplementing fish diets with bio-functional substances such as polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs), and research is being conducted to evaluate their effects on fish physiology, particularly on breeding performances. The objective of this study was to find out how squid-derived lipids (PUFAs) influence the Rohu carp, Labeo rohita, in terms of reproduction, and embryonic and larval growth. The experimental fish were provided with formulated diet for a duration of 90 days, containing 1 % squid-extracted lipids as a primary source of polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs). To determine the accuracy of the formulation, a proximate analysis of the feed ingredients and the formulated feeds were conducted. The results demonstrated remarkable reproductive outcomes during the spawning trial. Observations in fish treated with PUFAs revealed a significant improvement (p < 0.001) in sperm quality and viability, despite spawning occurring late in the breeding season. In addition, the fertilization rate (92.27 ± 1.74), hatching rate (89.33 ± 1.76), and survival rate (85.83 ± 1.74) of the offspring exhibited a statistically significant increase (p < 0.05) when subjected to PUFAs treatment in L. rohita. Consequently, the treated fish exhibited enhanced early embryonic and larval development in comparison to the control group. Hence, the current study demonstrates that the inclusion of PUFAs in the diet of Rohu carp leads to improved maturation, breeding, and developmental outcomes, specifically in terms of embryonic development and organogenesis.