Evaluation of Arthrospira fusiformis as a Protein Source in the Diet of Penaeus monodon Fabricius

Abstract

The cyanobacterium Arthrospira fusiformis (AF) has a high protein content of 60%-65% and is rich in vitamins, minerals, fatty acids (gamma-linolenic acid), carotenoid, and other antioxidant pigments. A 60-day feeding trial was conducted using postlarval Penaeus monodon (0.041 g mean initial weight) to evaluate the efficacy of six isonitrogenous (40% protein) test diets containing various inclusion levels of AF. Clam meat was replaced with AF at an inclusion level of control, 5%, 10%, 20%, 30%, and 40%. The diet with 20% AF produced a significantly greater weight gain, specific growth rate, food conversion ratio, and protein efficiency ratio than all other diets (p<0.05). Further increase in the AF inclusion levels significantly decreased growth and feeding performance. Percentage survival and water stability of diet was significantly higher at inclusion levels of 10% and 20%. The results suggest that AF cannot serve as the sole protein source in the diet of P. monodon postlarvae, but can be effectively used as a supplementary protein source.