Specific dynamic action and feeding metabolism in common carp, Cyprinus carpio L.

Abstract

1. 1. Oxygen uptake attributable to Specific Dynamic Action (SDA) was measured in common carp, Cyprinus carpio L. (63.6–84.0 g) fed on 20, 35 and 50% dietary protein at 0.40 to 1.00% ration levels at 28°C. 2. 2. After feeding both SDA magnitude and mean peak oxygen consumption increased directly with dietary protein and ration levels. SDA duration was not significantly related to dietary protein but significantly increased with ration levels. 3. 3. SDA coefficients were 8.99, 13.51 and 15.94% with 20, 35 and 50% dietary protein showing a direction relationship to the protein content. The SDA coefficient did not change with ration size. 4. 4. SDA models resulting from this work are of great interest for the aquaculturist, as post-feeding oxygen requirements in an intensive fish culture can be predicted where dietary protein and ration levels are known.