Lower FCR Research Articles

The super-intensive culture of Penaeus vannamei in low salinity water: A comparative study among recirculating aquaculture system, biofloc, and synbiotic systems

The culture of Penaeus vannamei in inland regions using low salinity water is a reality in several regions of the world. The dissemination of culture techniques that allow high stocking density and reduced water use can be used to optimize the production process, but they require comparative studies to better understand the functioning of these systems in those salinity conditions. Therefore, this study aimed to analyze the effects of different culture systems, which were recirculating aquaculture system (RAS), biofloc technology (BFT), and synbiotic system (Synbiotic) on the water quality, plankton composition, and growth of P. vannamei in low salinity (2 g L−1) and high stocking density (500 shrimp m−3) for 30 days. The shrimp were stocked at a mean weight of 1.27 ± 0.06 g. In the BFT, dextrose was used as the organic carbon source and administered at a carbon: nitrogen ratio of 15:1. In the Synbiotic, rice bran processed by probiotic microorganisms was used as an organic fertilization strategy. In the RAS treatment, all nitrogen species remained stable throughout the trial, without spikes, and with ammonia and nitrate concentrations lower than in BFT and Synbiotic. The BFT treatment had more events when total ammonia nitrogen exceeded 1 mg L−1, requiring water changes. The Synbiotic treatment had better control of nitrogenous compounds, and a more accentuated accumulation of nitrate compared to BFT, suggesting more effective nitrification. The BFT treatment had more microalgae than Synbiotic and RAS. However, the abundance of zooplankton was higher than that of phytoplankton in BFT and Synbiotic, indicating a dominance by heterotrophic organisms. The Synbiotic treatment had a higher abundance of ciliates and amoeba than the other treatments. Furthermore, the Synbiotic treatment provided higher survival, yield, and lower FCR than BFT and RAS. Our findings indicate that the Synbiotic system can be considered as an alternative for the P. vannamei super-intensive culture in low salinity water, as it presented better control of nitrogenous compounds compared to BFT, higher abundance of ciliates and amoeba, and provided better production rates to the culture.

Effects of dietary calcium and microbial phytase on the bioavailability of two sources of zinc in broilers

ABSTRACT 1. The objective of this study was to test the effect of microbial phytase and calcium (Ca) levels on the Zn bioavailability depending on the Zn source. 2. A total of 144, one-day-old broilers received a diet containing 40 mg Zn/kg for 1 week. They were then assigned to one of the eight experimental treatments during 2 weeks. Diets contained 27 mg native Zn and were formulated according to a 2 × 2 × 2 factorial design with two added Zn sources (23 mg Zn/kg), sulphate (ZnSO4) or oxide (ZnO); two dietary Ca levels of either 6 (low) or 10 g/kg (moderate); and two microbial phytase levels, of either 0 or 750 phytase unit/kg. 3. Moderate Ca plus phytase improved body weight gain (BWG) and low Ca level without microbial phytase decreased tibia weight (Ca × Phy; p = 0.049). Zinc oxide resulted in a higher tibia development (i.e. tibia weight and length; p < 0.05) and BWG (p = 0.009) and lower FCR (p < 0.001) compared to ZnSO4. 4. Phytase improved tibia Zn concentration especially in birds given ZnSO4 compared to ZnO (Zn × Phy; p = 0.049). Moderate Ca diets improved tibial characteristics and Zn deposition compared to low Ca diets (p < 0.05). 5. Soluble Zn in the gizzard increased in the presence of phytase (p = 0.011), while higher dietary Ca reduced this in birds receiving ZnO (p = 0.004). In the jejunum, Zn solubility was higher with phytase (p = 0.008). 6. Under the conditions of this study, dietary levels of Ca and microbial phytase affect Zn availability in broilers more than the Zn source.

Zootechnical Performance, Protease Activity and Proximate Composition of Nile Tilapia Fed Diets Containing Fish Silage Produced from Fish Waste

The present study was carried out to evaluate the impact of fish silage (FS) on the growth performances, protease enzyme activity and muscle compositions of Nile tilapia. In this regard, FS was produced from the waste parts of carp, pangus and tilapia and five iso-nitrogenous (containing 35% crude protein) diets were formulated in which fishmeal (FM) was used as the primary protein source in the control diet (0% FS, T1). The remaining four diets were formulated by replacing 25% (T2), 50% (T3), 75% (T4), and 100% (T5) FM protein with the FS. These diets were fed to tilapia at 8-6% of their body weight rearing them in glass tanks at the density of 15 fish/tank in triplicates. After fifty-days feeding trial, survival (%) of fish remained unaffected among the dietary treatments. Tilapia fed with 75% FS based diet showed improved growth and lower FCR, whereas those fed a diet with 100% FS exhibited lower growth rates. Notably, protease enzyme activity (mg/ml/min) increased with higher levels of FS inclusion. Increased crude protein content was observed in the fish fed the 75% FS diet. These findings underscore the potential of including FS up to 75% to enhance the growth performance of Nile tilapia.

Modulatory Potential of Selenium Supplementations on the Growth, Nutrients Profile and Regulation of Antioxidant Status of Striped Catfish (Pangasius Hypophthalmus)

This study is designed to evaluate the impact of varying selenium levels on growth potential, nutrient profile and antioxidant enzymes activity in striped catfish. Fish were randomly allocated into 15 circular indoor tanks, each with a capacity of 2000 L, (100 (H) x 200 cm (D)) dimension, and were raised for 12 weeks. Fifteen fish were allocated to each tank across four separate treatment groups, each replicated three times, following an entirely randomized design. Five iso-nitrogenous diets (30% CP) were prepared from basal diet in which one was control and other four were supplemented selenomethionine (Se-met) with levels of 0, 0.5, 1.0, 1.5 and 2.0 mg/kg. Upon completion of the feeding trial, a diet containing Se at 1.5 mg/kg resulted in a significant increase (P&lt;0.05) in weight gain (229.60±3.00) and SGR (0.92±0.23), along with a lower FCR (2.18±0.32). While, proximate composition remains non-significant (P &gt; 0.05) against dietary Se feed. Antioxidant enzymes activity in liver and muscle found higher in Se1.5 diet and Se2.0 mg/kg diet in comparison to lower dietary Se treatments. Moreover, dietary Se1.5 and Se2.0 treatments values remained non-significant. Overall, the results indicated that the incorporation of Se-met at 1.5 mg/kg in the diet can improve growth performance and antioxidant status in P. hypophthalmus.

Excessive Replacement of Fish Meal by Soy Protein Concentrate Resulted in Inhibition of Growth, Nutrient Metabolism, Antioxidant Capacity, Immune Capacity, and Intestinal Development in Juvenile Largemouth Bass (Micropterus salmoides).

This study investigated the effects of replacing 0% (SPC0), 25% (SPC25), 50% (SPC50), 75% (SPC75), and 100% (SPC100) of fish meal (FM) with soy protein concentrate (SPC) on the growth, nutritional metabolism, antioxidant capacity, and inflammatory factors in juvenile largemouth bass (Micropterus salmoides) (17.03 ± 0.01 g). After 56 days of culturing, various growth parameters including FW, WGR, and SGR were not significantly different among SPC0, SPC25, and SPC50 groups; however, they were significantly higher than those in SPC75 and SPC100 groups. Conversely, significantly lower FCR were determined for the SPC0, SPC25, and SPC50 groups compared with that for the SPC100 group; specifically, no significant difference among SPC0, SPC25, and SPC50 groups was found. Moreover, compared with SPC75 and SPC100 groups, a significantly higher FI was observed in the SPC0 group, whereas a significantly lower SR was observed in SPC100 compared with that in SPC0 and SPC25 groups. Compared with the SPC0 group, significantly lower mRNA levels of tor, rps6, 4ebp1, pparγ, and fas were found in SPC75 and SPC100. Additionally, the mRNA levels of cpt were significantly higher in SPC0, SPC25, and SPC50 groups than in SPC75 and SPC100 groups. Moreover, the mRNA levels of scd and acc remained unchanged for all the groups. Replacement of FM with SPC did not significantly affect the mRNA levels of gk, pk, and pepck. Compared with the SPC0 group, significantly decreased activities of CAT were observed in the SPC50, SPC75, and SPC100 groups, and significantly decreased activities of GSH-Px were observed in the SPC75 and SPC100 groups. In addition, significantly lower activity of SOD was observed in SPC100 compared with the other groups. Moreover, compared with the other groups, the SPC75 and SPC100 groups had significantly decreased and increased contents of GSH and MDA, respectively, while significantly lower mRNA levels of nrf2, cat, sod, and gsh-px were found in SPC50, SPC75, and SPC100; however, significantly higher mRNA levels of keap1 were observed in SPC75 and SPC100 groups. Additionally, significantly higher mRNA levels of il-8 and nf-κb were found in the SPC50, SPC75, and SPC100 groups compared with the SPC0 group. Conversely, significantly lower mRNA levels of il-10 and significantly higher mRNA levels of tnf-α were found in the SPC75 and SPC100 groups compared with the other groups. Compared with the SPC0 group, mucosal thickness and villus height were significantly decreased in the SPC75 and SPC100 groups. Collectively, SPC replacing 50% FM did not affect its growth of juvenile largemouth bass. However, SPC replacing 50% or more FM might inhibit antioxidant capacity and immune capacity to even threaten the SR, resulting in impaired intestinal development in replacing FM level of 75% or more.

Enhancing Florida red tilapia aquaculture: biofloc optimization improves water quality, pathogen bacterial control, fish health, immune response, and organ histopathology across varied groundwater salinities.

Freshwater scarcity poses challenges to aquaculture worldwide, including countries like Egypt. In this study, we investigate the feasibility of integrating underground saline water (USW) with varying salinities into a Biofloc (BFT) system for desert mariculture of Florida red tilapia (FRT) and its impacts on water quality, fish performance and health. Four BFT treatments (C/N ratio = 15) were examined in triplicate using four salinity levels 0 ppt, 12 ppt, 24 ppt and 36 ppt, expressed as S0, S12, S24 and S36, respectively. For 75 days, a total of 12 fiberglass tanks (each 250L-1 water) were used to store FRT fry (average weight of 1.73 ± 0.01g/fish). The fish were fed an experimental diet (protein/fat = 30/5) and an additional carbon source of rice bran. The results revealed that group S12 showed better growth indicators, higher survival rate, lower FCR, and lower ammonia levels, while group S0 exhibited lower growth indicators (final weight, weight gain, and specific growth rate) than all groups. The serum kidney, liver, and antioxidant indices performed better in the S12 group. At 12 ppt, the immune-related parameter (IgM) increased by 22.5%, while the stress parameter (cortisol) decreased by 40.8% compared to the S0 group. The liver and intestinal histopathological results revealed that the S12 and S24 groups performed better. Pathogenic bacterial load counts favored the S24 group, which had the lowest number among the groups studied. The recommended salinity for FRT cultivation in USW and BFT is 19.94-20 ppt, determined by polynomial regression of FW and FCR.

The effect of feeding level on protein and energy utilization in young and mature Kacang goats

Abstract A study was conducted to evaluate the amount of feeding on nutrient utilization of Kacang goats. This study used 16 heads, consisting of 8 young Kacang goats (5-6 months old), weighing 12.75 kg (CV = 2.4%), and 8 mature Kacang goats (12-15 months old), weighing 17.34 kg (CV = 2.7%). The diet was in the form of pellets, consisting of 25% wheat straw, 32% soybean meal, 39% rice bran, 3% sugarcane molasses, and 1% minerals. This study used a completely randomized design (CRD) in a nested structure. The main factor (the nest) was the age of the goat, i.e. young and mature, while the second factor (the nested factor) was feeding level, i.e. low (maintenance level) and high (twice maintenance level). The parameters were dry matter intake (DMI), dry matter digestibility (DMD), protein and energy intake, protein and energy digestibility, protein and energy retention, body weight gain (BWG), and feed conversion. The results showed the goat of high feeding level had higher DMI (P&lt;0.05) than that of low feeding level, both in the young goat (243 g/d vs 466 g/d) and the mature goat (303g/d vs 657). There was no significant difference (P&gt;0.05) in DMD between feeding levels and between age of goats (averaged 73.67%). The goats of high level had higher (P&lt;0.01) nutrients retention in goats and the mature goats. The goats of high feeding level had significantly higher (P&lt;0.05) BWG than that of low feeding level (14.64 g/d vs 41.95 g/d in the young goat and 18.35 g/d vs 58.77 g/d in the mature goat). The high feeding level resulted in lower FCR (P&lt;0.01) than the lower feeding level, both in the young goats (16.40 vs 11.44) and in the mature goats (16.47 vs 11.47). It can be concluded that young and mature Kacang goats had similar abilities in feed digestion. The higher feeding level resulted in the better utilization of dietary protein and energy, and productivity of the goat.

Significance of successive feeding of sources of n-3 fatty acids to broiler breeders and their progeny on growth performance, intestinal lesion scores, lymphoid organs weight and plasma immunoglobulin A in broiler chickens challenged with Eimeria

The study examined the effects of successive feeding of sources of n-3 PUFA to broiler breeders (BB) and their progeny in broiler chickens challenged with Eimeria. The BB were fed: 1) control (CON), corn-soybean meal diet, 2) CON + 1 % microalgae (DMA), as a source of DHA and 3) CON + 2.50% co-extruded full fat flaxseed (FFF), as a source of ALA. Eggs were hatched at 34, 44, and 54 wk of age. Posthatch treatments (BB-progeny) were: CON-CON, DMA-CON, FFF-CON, DMA-DMA and FFF-FFF with diets formulated for starter (d 1-10) and grower/finisher (d 11-42) phases. All chicks were orally challenged with Eimeria (E. acervulina and E. maxima) on d 10. Relative to CON, DMA and FFF increased concentration of n-3 PUFA by ≥ 2-fold in hatching eggs and progeny diets. There were no (P > 0.05) interactions between treatment and BB age on d 0 to 10 growth. In general, BB age affected (P < 0.05) growth performance throughout the study. In the starter phase, successive exposure to DHA and ALA improved FCR over CON-CON (P < 0.01). The interaction between treatment and BB age in grower/finisher was such that DHA exposure to younger BB resulted in poor growth performance (P < 0.05) relative to exposure to older BB. In contrast, exposure to ALA had similar (P > 0.05) growth performance irrespective of BB age. Moreover, successive exposure to ALA resulted in higher BWG, breast weight and lower FCR compared to successive exposure to DHA (P < 0.05). There were no (P > 0.05) interactions between treatment and BB age on the intestinal lesion scores, lymphoid organ weights and concentration of plasma immunoglobulin A (IgA). Successive exposure to DHA resulted in higher (P = 0.006) jejunal lesion scores than CON-CON birds. The results showed that successive exposure of DHA and ALA improved FCR relative to non-exposed birds in the starter phase. However, responses in the grower/finisher phase depended on n-3 PUFA type, with birds on successive ALA exposure supporting better growth and breast yield than birds on successive DHA exposure.

An approach to optimizing dietary protein to growth and body composition in walking catfish, Clarias batrachus (Linneaeus, 1758).

Clarias batrachus is a commercially important food fish. In the present study, effect of varying dietary protein levels was evaluated on the survival, growth parameters and proximate composition of C. batrachus. Diets comprising 25%, 30%, 35%, 40%, 45%, and 50% crude protein (CP) were supplied to fish in T1, T2, T3, T4, T5, and T6, respectively, at the rate of 5% of fish body weight for the entire 90 days, twice daily. Size of each stocked C. batrachus was recorded after 15 days. Results revealed 100% survival rate of C. batrachus in all treatments. Significantly highest (P<0.001) mean value of weight gain (g/fish), percent weight gain, daily growth rate, specific growth rate and protein efficiency ratio (PER) in C. batrachus were recorded, reared in T4 by feeding 40% CP in diet. The best FCR value (1.90±0.02) for C. batrachus was obtained in T4 by feeding 40%CP in diet. Mean value of water, ash, fat and protein contents (wet mass) were ranged 74.10-79.23%, 3.12-4.68%, 3.90-4.43% and 13.09-16.79% for C. batrachus in the studied treatment groups. Water content (%) was found significantly (P<0.05) higher in the body of C. batrachus for T1, T2, T3 and T6 than for T4 and T5. Ash was found significantly (P<0.05) higher in the fish reared in T4 and T5. Fat content in the wet body mass of C. batrachus was found significantly higher in T4 and T1. While, significant higher (P<0.05) values of mean protein content was noted in C. batrachus reared in T4 and T5. Body composition of C. batrachus was also categorically affected by body size, however, condition factor showed non-significant correlation in most of the relationships in the present study. Overall, results indicated that feeding appropriate diet (containing 40% CP) to the fish resulted good growth performance, lower FCR and higher protein content in the fish. Present study provides valuable knowledge of optimal dietary protein level in C. batrachus which will help in commercial success of aquaculture.

Phase-specific outcmes of arginine or branched-chain amino acids supplementation in low crude protein diets on performance, nutrient digestibility, and expression of tissue protein synthesis and degradation in broiler chickens infected with mixed Eimeria spp.

A 35-d study investigated the impact of dietary supplementation with Arginine (Arg) or branched-chain amino acids (BCAA) of broilers receiving low-protein diets whilst infected with mixed Eimeria species. All birds were given the same starter (d0-10) and finisher (d28-35) diets. The 4 grower diets used were a positive control (PC) with adequate protein (18.5%), a low protein diet (NC;16.5% CP), or the NC supplemented with Arg or BCAA. Supplemental AA was added at 50% above the recommended levels. The treatments were in a 4 × 2 factorial arrangement, with 4 diets, with or without Eimeria inoculation on d14. Birds and feed were weighed after inoculation in phases: prepatent (d14-17), acute (d18-21), recovery (d22-28), and compensatory (d29-35). Ileal digesta, jejunum, and breast tissue were collected on d21, 28, and 35. There was no diet × Eimeria inoculation on growth performance at any phase. Infected birds weighed less and consumed less feed (P < 0.05) in all phases. In the prepatent and acute phases, birds on the Arg diets had higher weight gain (P < 0.05) and lower FCR, similar to PC, when compared to NC and BCAA-fed ones. Infection reduced AA digestibility on d21 and 28 (Met and Cys). However, birds that received supplemental AA had higher digestibility (P < 0.05) of their respective supplemented AA on d 21 only. Infected birds had lower (P < 0.05) BO + AT and higher PEPT1 expression on d21. There was a diet × Eimeria interaction (P = 0.004) on gene expression at d28; 4EBP1 genes were significantly downwardly expressed (P < 0.05) in birds fed Arg diet, irrespective of infection. Infected birds exhibited an upward expression (P < 0.05) of Eef2 on d21 and d28 but experienced a downward expression on d35. Supplemental Arg and BCAA had variable effects on growth performance, apparent ileal AA digestibility, and genes of protein synthesis and degradation, but the effect of Arg on promoting weight gain, irrespective of the Eimeria challenge, was more consistent.

Effects of dietary nano-selenium concentration on growth, proximate chemical composition and antioxidant enzymes, and physiological responses to stressors by juvenile Catla catla

This study evaluated effects of nano‑selenium (nano-Se) on growth, feed utilization and antioxidant status of Catla catla fed isonitrogenous (26.25% protein) and isolipidic (13.12% lipid) diets formulated to contain nano-Se at 0, 0.75, 1.5 and 2.25 mg/kg (analysed Se 0.32, 1.08, 1.81 and 2.61 mg/kg). There were three tanks (89 × 58 × 61 cm) for each of the four feed treatments, and each tank of 25 fish (initial weight of 6.41 ± 0.02 g) was fed to satiation twice each day for 90 days. After 90 days, growth performance and survival rate were noted and then 9 fish from each replicate were harvested and analysed for body proximate composition, serum biochemistry and antioxidant enzyme activities. The remaining 16 fish from each replicate were subjected to temperature and hypoxia stress (8 fish against each stressor). Orthogonal polynomial contrast analysis revealed dietary nano-Se supplementation significantly improved the growth performance and feed utilization in linear, quadratic trends. Fish fed diet containing 1.08 mg/kg nano-Se showed highest weight gain (28.00 ± 0.84 g) and specific growth rate (1.87 ± 0.01%/day) and lowest FCR (1.07 ± 0.03). However, no significant effect was observed on the feed intake or survival rates of the fish. Furthermore, whole body moisture, crude protein (CP) and ash contents showed significant linear and quadratic trends in response to dietary nano-Se. Before and after stress challenges, significant increase in liver superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase (CAT), and glutathione peroxidase activities (GPx) and decrease in thiobarbituric acid reactive substances (TBARS) were observed in fish fed 1.08 mg/kg nano-Se diets compared with the control group. Before stress, nano-Se supplementation had no effect on the levels of serum glucose (GLU), serum cortisol (CORT) or the survival rate (SR), however, significant elevations in these parameters were observed after stress challenges. Fish fed 1.08 mg/kg nano-Se diet showed significantly lower values of GLU, CORT and SR as compared to the control group after each stress challenge. In conclusion, nano-Se supplementation improved the growth performance, health status and response to stressor in Catla catla. The optimum nano-Se concentration in the diets of C. catla was estimated to be 1.54, 1.60, 1.58 and 1.64 mg/kg on the basis of weight gain percent, FCR, TBARS and GLU, respectively.

The effects of nano-curcumin on growth performance, feed utilization, blood biochemistry, disease resistance, and gene expression in European seabass (Dicentrarchus labrax) fingerlings

Phytochemicals are used in fish farming to reduce stress and combat diseases during intensification. Recently, nanotechnology has represented a paradigm shift in the aquatic feed industry to improve the solubility, availability, and efficacy of phytochemicals. The purpose of this research was to investigate the effects of dietary supplementation with nano-curcumin (CUNE) on the growth, feed utilization, body composition, blood biochemistry, antioxidant status, disease resistance to Vibrio parahaemolyticus (V. parahaemolyticus), and the expression of insulin-like growth factor 1 (IGF-1), growth hormone (GH), interleukin-10 (IL-10), and interlukin-1β (IL-1β) genes in European Seabass (Dicentrarchus labrax) fingerlings. Fish (6.02±0.01) were randomly divided into four equal groups and fed varying levels of CUNE: 0 (CUNE0), 50 (CUNE1), 60 (CUNE2), and 70 mg/kg (CUNE3) of nano-curcumin for 56 days, respectively. The inclusion of dietary CUNE significantly improved the growth indices (final body weight and weight gain, and specific growth rate) and feed utilization (improved feed intake and lower FCR) of European seabass fingerlings (p<0.05). However, CUNE inclusion had no significant effect on body composition including the percentages of dry mater, crude protein, crude lipid, and ash (p>0.05). All CUNE groups established an enhancement in blood hematology in a dose-dependent manner, with CUNE3 demonstrating the highest values. CUNE supplementation (70 mg/kg diet) produced the highest levels of total protein, albumin, globulin, and triglycerides, as well as the lowest levels of glucose, and hepatic enzymes (ALT, AST, and ALP; p<0.05) compared to other groups. Furthermore, the CUNE-supplemented groups showed significant improvements in superoxide dismutase, catalase, and glutathione peroxidase, while reducing malondialdehyde (p<0.05). Additionally, the consumption of CUNE increased the expression of IGF-1, GH, and IL-10 genes in a dose-dependent manner (p<0.05). Interestingly, fish fed 70 mg of CUNE in their diets had lower expression of the IL-1β gene compared to the other groups (p<0.05). When the fish were challenged with V. parahaemolyticus, the addition of CUNE in their diets resulted in reduced mortality rates. Therefore, nano-curcumin could be considered as a natural feed additive to promote growth, feed utilization, and bacteria resistance via supporting antioxidant status, serum metabolites, and the regulation of GH, IL-10, and IGF-1 in the hepatic tissues of European seabass fingerlings.

Enhancing farmed striped catfish (Pangasianodon hypophthalmus) robustness through dietary β-glucan.

β-glucan is a well-documented feed additive for its potent immunostimulatory properties in many farmed fish species. This study examined how it can also be a promising growth promoter, modulate antioxidant enzyme activities, and act as an anti-stress agent in striped catfish (Pangasianodon hypophthalmus). A 12-week feeding experiment was untaken to determine the effects of dietary β-glucan supplementation at graded levels (0, 0.5, 1.0, and 1.5 g kg-1). Measured indicators suggest that a dietary inclusion level of 1.5 g kg-1 β-glucan gave the highest positive responses: weight gain (120.10 g fish-1), survival (98.30%), and lower FCR (1.70) (P<0.05). Whole body proximate analysis had only revealed that crude protein was significantly affected by the dietary inclusion of β-glucan (P<0.05), with the highest protein content (19.70%) being in fish that were fed with 1.5 g kg-1 β-glucan. Although other inclusion levels (i.e., 0.5 and 1 g kg-1) of β-glucan did not enhance body protein content (P>0.05). The assessment of fatty acid composition in muscle, liver, and adipose tissues showed modifications with the inclusion of β-glucan. Antioxidative-related enzyme activities (inc. catalase, glutathione peroxidase, and superoxide dismutase) that were measured in the liver had higher levels when fed with β-glucan inclusion diets (P<0.05). Following the feed trial, fish were subjected to crowding stress treatment. It was subsequently found that catfish fed with β-glucan-based diet groups had lower levels of blood stress-related indicators compared to the control group with no dietary β-glucan. The use of 1.5 g kg-1 of dietary β-glucan resulted in the lowest measured levels of cortisol (43.13 ng mL-1) and glucose (50.16 mg dL-1). This study has demonstrated that the dietary inclusion of β-glucan can have functional benefits beyond the immunological enhancements in striped catfish. Furthermore, its use can increase production levels and mitigate the stress associated with intensive farming practices.

Effect of Stocking Density, Multispecies Probiotics, and Biofloc on Metabolic and Physiological Responses of Puntius sophore in Laboratory Conditions

A 60-day experimental trial was conducted to evaluate the effect of different stocking densities, probiotic supplementation, and a biofloc system on the growth and physiological responses of Puntius sophore in laboratory conditions. P. sophore (8.64 ± 1.24 g) was obtained from the Brahmaputra River, Mymensingh, and immediately transferred to a flow-through water system. In experiment 1, fish were subjected to three treatments (20 fish per 400 L as LD, 25 fish per 400 L as MD, and 30 fish per 400 L as HD), and similarly, in experiment 2, three different types of diets were provided (control diet (D1), biofloc (D2), and a probiotic-containing diet (D3)). Three replications were used in the completely randomized experimental design. Growth parameters, viz. TLG, BWG, FCR, FCE, SGR, RGR, and DGR, were significantly influenced by stocking density and probiotics (p &lt; 0.05). The highest growth rate was observed in LD and in D3. The lowest FCR was also observed in LD and in D3, while highest was in HD (30 fish per 400 L) and in D2. Though stocking density does not impact the blood profile, with the exception of WBC, in the case of feeding regime, WBC, RBC, MCV, MCH, and PLT levels differed significantly (p &lt; 0.05); however, all haematological measures were within the normal range in both experiments, and the fish’s physiological conditions were better in LD and feeding with probiotic supplementation (D3). The results obtained from this study suggested that the welfare of P. sophore is adversely affected by high stocking density and increased growth and physiological conditions when cultured with LD and supplemented with probiotics.

Bromelain can reduce the negative effects of a subclinical necrotic enteritis in broiler chickens

This study was conducted to examine the efficacy of a bromelain-based supplementation coded ANR-pf on growth performance and intestinal lesion of broiler chickens under necrotic enteritis (NE) challenge. A total of 540 Ross 308 day-old male chicks were randomly allocated into 6 treatments of 6 replicates. The bromelain formulation was delivered to chickens through gavaging and/or in drinking water method twice, on d 8 and 13. Non-challenged groups included (1) without or (2) with the specific bromelain formulation gavaged at 0.8 mL/kg. NE-challenged groups included (3) without the specific bromelain formulation; (4) gavaged with 0.4 mL/kg; (5) gavaged with 0.8 mL/kg and (6) supplemented with 0.8 mL/kg via drinking water. Birds were challenged with Eimeria spp. on d 9 and Clostridium perfringens (NE-18 strain) on d 14 and 15. On d 14 and 19, fresh faecal contents were collected for the determination of oocyst counts. Intestinal lesion scores were determined on d16. Performance and mortality were recorded throughout the entire experiment. Among challenged groups, birds received additive via drinking water had higher weight gain (WG) compared to the remaining groups (P < 0.001) in the grower phase and had lower FCR compared to 0.4 mL/kg inoculated group in the grower and finisher phases (P < 0.001). Bromelain supplementation via drinking water improved the WG of challenged birds, similar to that of the non-challenged birds (P < 0.001), and lowered FCR compared to other challenged groups (P < 0.001). Non-challenged birds and birds that received bromelain formulation in drinking water did not have lesions throughout the small intestine whereas challenged birds, either un-supplemented or supplemented with bromelain via inoculation route recorded similar lesion score levels in the jejunum. At d19, birds received bromelain in drinking water had lower faecal oocyst numbers compared to challenged birds without additive (P < 0.001). In conclusion, bromelain administration via drinking water could ameliorate the negative impacts of NE-infection in broilers by improving performance, lowering the oocyst numbers and lesion scores.

Effects of Extreme-Ambient Temperatures in Silver Barb (Barbonymus gonionotus): Metabolic, Hemato-Biochemical Responses, Enzymatic Activity and Gill Histomorphology

A global interest in Silver Barb (Barbonymus gonionotus) cultivation has arisen because of a combination of declining wild stock and a steady increase in demand and market value. The purpose of the current investigation was to evaluate the impact of extreme water temperature changes on growth, hemato-biochemical responses, pepsin enzyme activity and gill histomorphology of B. gonionotus. Four distinct temperatures (22, 26, 30 and 34 °C) were applied in the laboratory (22, 26, 30 and 34 °C) in triplicate glass aquariums (150 L each). At 30 and 22 °C, respectively, the highest and the lowest length and weight gain, specific, daily and relative growth rates were noted. At 30 °C the lowest FCR was recorded (1.42 ± 0.04). The values related to hematology and biochemistry were found to be within normal ranges; nevertheless, there was a notable variation in the parameters when the temperature changed. Hematological results revealed that RBC, HB, PLT, HCT and PMV levels were significantly higher in groups 30 °C with respect to others. It was evident that cold and heat shock stress was present due to the decline in hematocrit levels and rise in WBC values. Regarding the biochemical responses, the level of triglycerides, cholesterol, AP, Ca+, HDL, and HDL/LDL ratio increased significantly higher at 30 °C. Glucose, total protein, albumin, Na+, K+, Cl−1, AST, bilirubin, uric acid, and LDL levels were significantly higher at 22 °C compared to other temperatures. There was a higher pepsin activity between 26 and 30 °C while the digestive somatic index (IDS) was disproportionate. Histological examination demonstrated the well-shaped gill tissues at 26 and 30 °C compared to distinctive pathology in other temperature treatments. As an end note, the results of the experiment indicated that B. gonionotus should be cultured at 26–30 °C to maximize the overall productivity and the health condition of this economically important fish species.

Analisis Biaya Produksi dan Analisis Profitabilitas Usaha Budidaya Ikan Lele di Kab. Mojokerto

This study aims to analyze production costs in catfish curl farming in Mojokerto Regency and compare the level of profitability. The research sample is several respondents of catfish farming farmers in Mojokerto district. This study used primary data and secondary data obtained from catfish farmers, relevant agencies, the Mojokerto District Fisheries Office, and the Ministry of Maritime Affairs Fisheries, using purposive sampling method. The data analysis technique used in this research is quantitative descriptive analysis. The final results of the study showed that farmer-2 was superior in obtaining a lower FCR value of 1.16 compared to farmer-1's FCR level of 1.60. However, the profit gain and the level of profitability obtained are much greater in the enlargement of catfish owned by farmer-1 with a profitability rate of 16.90%. This occurs because the costs incurred to purchase feed in the form of CCM waste are far more expensive than the costs incurred to purchase feed in the form of chicken intestines. In terms of feed quality, CCM waste is of good quality and efficient for use as catfish feed because it can score low FCR values. However, the costs incurred to purchase good quality feed also need to be taken into account and considered.

EFFECT OF ENZYME SUPPLEMENTATION ON THE PERFORMANCE OF BROILER CHICKENS

To evaluate the influence of xylanase, phytase, and their combination on broiler growth, nutrient digestibility, bone mineralization, and gut morphology. A randomized complete block design was employed for this study. 400 day-old broiler chicks (Ross 308) were dispensed to four treatment bunches with five reproduces per treatment. The birds were haphazardly disseminated among the medicines in light of starting body weight to guarantee homogeneity across gatherings. Broilers supplemented with xylanase and combining xylanase and phytase showed numerically higher average body weights compared to the control and phytase-only groups. However, statistical significance was observed only in the xylanase and combination groups (p &lt; 0.05). The combination of xylanase and phytase demonstrated the lowest FCR, indicating improved feed efficiency compared to other groups (p &lt; 0.05). Xylanase supplementation also resulted in significantly lower FCR than the control (p &lt; 0.05). It is concluded that enzyme supplementation, specifically the combination of xylanase and phytase, significantly enhanced broiler growth, nutrient utilization, and bone health.

Farklı protein seviyesi içeren yemlerin tatlısuda yetiştirilen Avrupa levreği (Dicentrarchus labrax L., 1758) yavrularının büyüme ve yaşama oranları üzerine etkisi

In this study, the effect of the use of feeds containing different protein ratios on the growth performance of juvenile sea bass (Dicentrarchus labrax L., 1758) reared in freshwater was investigated. Sea bass fry with an average body weight of 1.0 ± 0.03 g were stocked in 120 liter tanks in triplicate after their adaptation to freshwater. The feeds used in the study had different protein/similar fat content. Accordingly, the experimental groups were named as 45CP (45% CP / 18% CF), 50CP (50% CP / 18% CF) and 55CP (55% CP / 18% CF). At the end of the experiment, the highest body weight gain was 5.84 ± 0.03 g in the 55CP group, while the other groups were 5.73 ± 0.09 g (45CP) and 5.8 ± 0.08 g (50CP). SGR rates were similar for all three groups and there was no statistical difference between the groups (P&gt;0.05). SGR values of the groups were calculated as 1.94 ± 0.04 (45CP), 1.89 ± 0.01 (50CP), 1.91 ± 0.02 (55CP), respectively. There was no statistical difference between the 45CP and 55CP groups, while the 50CP group showed a statistically lower FCR rate than the other groups (P&lt;0.05). FCR values were calculated as 1.36 ± 0.05, 1.29 ± 0.03, 1.37 ± 0.04, respectively. There was no difference between the survival rates of the groups. According to the results of the study, it was concluded that sea bass fish can be raised in freshwater, especially in the fry stage, and that it is more effective than the commercial feeds currently used.

Farklı protein seviyesi içeren yemlerin tatlısuda yetiştirilen Avrupa levreği (Dicentrarchus labrax L., 1758) yavrularının büyüme ve yaşama oranları üzerine etkisi

In this study, the effect of the use of feeds containing different protein ratios on the growth performance of juvenile sea bass (Dicentrarchus labrax L., 1758) reared in freshwater was investigated. Sea bass fry with an average body weight of 1.0 ± 0.03 g were stocked in 120 liter tanks in triplicate after their adaptation to freshwater. The feeds used in the study had different protein/similar fat content. Accordingly, the experimental groups were named as 45CP (45% CP / 18% CF), 50CP (50% CP / 18% CF) and 55CP (55% CP / 18% CF). At the end of the experiment, the highest body weight gain was 5.84 ± 0.03 g in the 55CP group, while the other groups were 5.73 ± 0.09 g (45CP) and 5.8 ± 0.08 g (50CP). SGR rates were similar for all three groups and there was no statistical difference between the groups (P&gt;0.05). SGR values of the groups were calculated as 1.94 ± 0.04 (45CP), 1.89 ± 0.01 (50CP), 1.91 ± 0.02 (55CP), respectively. There was no statistical difference between the 45CP and 55CP groups, while the 50CP group showed a statistically lower FCR rate than the other groups (P&lt;0.05). FCR values were calculated as 1.36 ± 0.05, 1.29 ± 0.03, 1.37 ± 0.04, respectively. There was no difference between the survival rates of the groups. According to the results of the study, it was concluded that sea bass fish can be raised in freshwater, especially in the fry stage, and that it is more effective than the commercial feeds currently used.