Evaluation of the Effects of Different Inclusion Rates of Balanites aegyptiaca Seed Oil on the Growth Performance and Survival of Clarias anguillaris Fries

Abstract

One of the main problems facing aquaculture is the lack and high price of fishmeal and fish oil supply. The continued growth of aquaculture production cannot depend on these finite fisheries resources. It is imperative that inexpensive and readily available alternatives that do not compromise fish growth and product quality are found. It is in this specific context that this study consisting of a test of the Balanites aegyptiaca seed oil incorporated in the feed of Clarias anguillaris fries was conducted.

The experiment lasted eight (8) weeks and included five treatments of two tanks each. This corresponds to a total of 10 tanks for 150 fries with a stocking density of 15 fish per tank. Five diets supplemented with 0% (R.0), 1% (R.1), 2% (R.2), 3% (R.3) and 4% (R.4) of the lipid source were administered twice daily for eight weeks. Growth was regularly monitored and mortalities recorded to assess the effects of each diet. The results revealed significant effects on growth performance and survival of Clarias anguillaris fries. For the average weight gain and the specific growth rate, the best result was obtained with the fish fed with diet containing 2% Balanites aegyptiaca seed oil (R.2). The best feed conversion ratio was recorded with the diet incorporating 2% of this oil. The best survival rates (66.67% and 70%) were observed in fries fed with diets incorporating respectively 2% and 3% of the oil. The experimental study has shown that a 2% incorporation rate is the most appropriate for the successful rearing of Clarias anguillaris fries.