Development and optimization of an extruded aquafeed formulated with moringa flour as a partial substitute for sardine meal

Abstract

Abstract The growing demand for the utilization of fishmeal in aquafeed formulation has led researchers to search for new protein sources. For that, this study investigates the use of moringa flour as a sustainable protein source in extruded aquafeeds for Oreochromis niloticus (Nile tilapia). Response surface methodology (RSM) was used proposing a central composite rotatable design (CCRD), where it was evaluated the effect of 4 factors (sardine and moringa flour concentration, temperature, and moisture processing) on the physicochemical characteristics of the aquafeed obtained such as expansion index (EI), bulk density, water solubility index (WSI), water absorption index (WAI), hardness, and buoyancy. Numerical optimization was carried out, obtaining 4 optimal diets to generate an aquafeed which were analyzed physicochemical and nutritionally. Moringa flour demonstrates high protein content (20.24%) and improved water solubility, enhancing the feed's digestibility. The optimal diets meet tilapia's protein and lipid requirements, showcasing the potential of moringa flour as an alternative to traditional protein sources, and highlighting the importance of extrusion optimization in the aquaculture industry.