The Influence of replacing Maize with <i>Chrysophyllum Albidum</i> Seed Meal on Growth Response and Nutrient Utilization in <i>Clarias Gariepinus</i>

Abstract

The study investigated the effect of replacing maize with Chrysophylum albidum seed meal on the growth performance and nutrient utilization in Clarias gariepinus. Five isonitrogenous diets containing maize which was replaced by Chrysophylum albidum at a rate of 0, 25, 50, 75 and 100% were formulated. Experimental diets were randomly assigned to the fish in tanks and each group of fish was fed 5% body weight in equal proportion per day. Significant variation (P<0.05) existed in weight gain, specific growth rate; feed conversion, and survival rate among the fish fed various dietary treatments. There was no significant difference (P>0.05) in all the aforementioned parameters between fish fed diet 75% and 100 Chrysophylum albidum. A decrease in growth and nutrient utilization parameters of fish fed various dietary treatments was observed as the level of Chrysophyllum albidum seed meal increased. Replacement of maize by Chrysophyllum albidum in the diets of Clarias gariepinus significantly reduce the growth and nutrient utilization by Clarias gariepinusKeywords: Chrysophyllum albidum, Clarias gariepinus,maize, fish feed ingredients and energy sources