Growth Performance, Biochemical, Antioxidant Status and Histopathology Changes of Clarias Gariepinus, Raised in a Biofloc Medium Utilizing Natural Carbon Sources
Growth Performance, Biochemical, Antioxidant Status and Histopathology Changes of Clarias Gariepinus, Raised in a Biofloc Medium Utilizing Natural Carbon Sources
Ikele*, Chika Bright, Ujunwa Aghaji, Mgbenka, Benard Obialo
ABSTRACT
Integrated biofloc-centered aquaculture nutrient recycling offers a sustainable fish productivity with less environmental impact. A 28 days preliminary trial was conducted to evaluate the affect of biofloc technology application on Clarias gariepinus juveniles with emphasis on the growth performance and impact on physiological status. A total of two hundred and seventy juvenile Clarias gariepinus were randomly distributed into six plastic bioreactors groups (A-F) in triplicates with equal volume of inoculum, maintained in 30 L tank with constant aeration. Addition of organic carbon sources (CN 10:1, 20:1) were evaluated to stimulate rapid growth of microbial dynamics biomass whereas, no carbon sources were added in the control systems. The CN ratios (cassava and wheat) of 10:1 and 20:1 were; cassava (CA 10:1, 20:1) groups C, D, and wheat flour (WH10:1 and 20:1) groups E and F, respectively. Meanwhile, the normal controls, group A (inoculum, no carbon addition) and B (no inoculum, no carbon) had 50% water exchange and received only fish feed at 3% body weight. The physicochemical parameters maintained the tolerable limit for catfish farming. Significant weight gain, specific growth rate, LWRs, survival rate, and floc volumes were observed at the end of experiment. Observed changes in the catalase, superoxide dismutase, glutathione peroxidase, and malondialdehyde activities in the gill were between day 14 and 21. Significant levels (p<0.05) of floc volumes (67.33 to 72 ml) were obtained from the total suspended solids maintained between 111 to 324 mg/L. Total heterotrophic bacteria present in the biofloc media were higher in CA 20:1 with a significantly peak value of 390X104 cfu/ml compared to other groups. The C:N at 10 and 20 utilizing cassava and wheat supported growth of C. gariepinus with a mean weight gain of 214.91±26.84g, specific growth rate 3.78±0.26 but did not enhance the condition factor >1 of C. gariepinus juveniles within 28-days. In conclusion, inclusion of C:N ratio of cassava and wheat flour in biofloc tank is beneficial for the growth and health parameters of Clarias gariepinus.
Keywords | Local carbon sources, C:N ratio, Biofloc, Growth performance, Clarias gariepinus
To share on other social networks, click on any share button. What are these?
