Seeds of sacha inchi (Plukenetia volubilis, Euphorbiaceae) as a feed ingredient for juvenile tambaqui, Colossoma macropomum, and matrinxã, Brycon amazonicus (Characidae)

Abstract

ABSTRACT Sacha inchi (Plukenetia volubilis) is a plant native to the Peruvian Amazon with seeds that contain 24 to 29% protein, and levels of vitamin A and E and omega 3 polyunsaturated fatty acids that are suitable for fish nutrition. Thus, this study aimed to evaluate the use of sacha inchi seeds as an ingredient in the diets of tambaqui (Colossoma macropomum) and matrinxã (Brycon amazonicus). The acceptance and effect of three levels of sacha inchi seed meal (0, 15 and 30%) in fish feed was evaluated in a randomized experiment, testing groups of 12 juvenile tambaquis (29.8 ± 1.0 g, 11.0 ± 1.4 cm) and groups of eight juvenile matrinxãs (34.8 ± 1.3 g, 13.7 ± 1.0 cm). Growth performance and body composition of the fish were determined at the end of the experiment. An effect of the sacha inchi diet was only observed for feed conversion of tambaquis, which was worst at the highest level of sacha inchi seed. In conclusion, sacha inchi can be added to feed juvenile tambaquis at a level of 15%, and juvenile matrinxãs at 30% without compromising growth performance and body parameters of the fish.