The Growth Response of Clarias gariepinus (Burchell, 1822) Fingerlings Fed Tadpole Meal Replacing Fish meal

Abstract

This study evaluates the growth performance of Clarias gariepinus fingerlings fed tadpole meal partially replacing fish. Five iso-nitrogenous (Crude Protein 42 %) diets were prepared and designated as TP1 (0 %, Control), TP2 (10 %), TP3 (30 %), TP4 (45 %) and TP5 (60 %) of tadpole meal as replacement for fish meal. The diets were fed to fingerlings of Clarias gariepinus for 56 days. Fish were stocked into five glass aquarium at 20 fish per glass aquarium (0.6m × 0.3m × 0.3m). The tadpole-base diets were allotted to fish in the aquarium each replicated thrice. The result showed final weight, weight gain, specific growth rate, feed intake were significantly (P<0.05) better in fish fed 30 % level of tadpole replacing fish meal. Clarias gariepinus fingerlings accepted diets containing tadpole meal as fishmeal replacer. Tadpole meal can replace 30% of fish meal in the diet of C. gariepinus fingerlings.