Fomanus Keke
Imo State University, Owerri
Title: Growth response of clarias gariepinus fingerlines fed on conventional and non-conventional feeds
Biography
Biography: Fomanus Keke
Abstract
Feeding trial was conducted to determine the nutritional effects of two non conventional and one conventional feeds on the growth performance and nutritional utilization of Clarias gariepinus fingerlings, putting into consideration the cost effectiveness of the three diets. One hundred and eighty Clarias gariepinus fingerlings were divided into six treatment groups of triplicates and a control of 10 fingerlings with mean weight of 16.2g. The treatment groups consisted of control Copens feed (T1); Formulated feed with soybean (T2) Formulated feed with bambara nut (T3). The experimental diets (T2 & T3) were formulated at the desired crude protein inclusion levels of 10%, 20% and 30% respectively. Each experimental diet was assigned to a group of ten fingerlings in triplicates using completely randomized design (CRD) and each replicate housed in a rectangular transparent container of about fifteen (15) liters capacity. The fingerlings were weighed at the begining of the feeding trial to obtain their initial body weight and two (2) weekly thereafter. Observation on feed, CARCASS Composition, the percentage weight gain, mortality, water quality and cost estimation were also taken. Data collected were subjected to analysis of variance. There were no significant (p<0.05) difference in the growth response of African Catfish Clarias gariepinus fingerlings, fed of the three diets. Result of this study indicates that the best growth performance and nutrient utilization for Clarias gariepinus fingerlings were attained at treatment 3 (Formulated feed with bambara nut) also cost in production per unit is better attained at the same treatment 3(formulated feed with bambara nut) since it attracted no import tariff as compared to that of the Copens (Treatment 1).