Growth Enhancement in Labeo rohita by replacing Conventional feed with Moringa Leaves (Moringa oleifera) Powder

Abstract

Aquaculture enhancement is the need of time to encounter the food demand of the tremendously increasing population. Conventional animals and plants are equally important for human consumption, so examination of other little-researched nutritious plants such as Moringa oleifera (Lam) is necessary as an alternative source of aquaculture food protein that may be cost-effective. Objectives: To investigate the growth response of Labeo rohita species with the addition of M. oleifera leaves in conventional food and assessment of economic return and prospects to increase the farmer’s income. Methods: The current study was planned to observe the growth response and biomass production in Labeo rohita (Rohu) with increased economic returns while feeding at different doses of MOL (i-e. 0%, 10%, and 20% inclusion in conventional feed using MOL). The present study was designed in earthen ponds at Wains Agricultural Farm, UC-52, Shah Sadiq Nehang, Shorkot tehsil, Jhang district, Pakistan for 10 weeks (February to April 2018). Results: It was observed that a 10% inclusion of MOL powder in conventional fishmeal produce batter biomass as compared to other doses. At the end of the 10th week, L. rohita produced 65.16 g body weight with 10% inclusion whereas a 63.20 g increase was observed with a conventional diet. Conclusions: It was inferred that aggregate saving was about 13% when fish was fed with MOL powder diet. Thus, the present study proved a cost-effective approach for fish farming in developing countries like Pakistan.