Growth and Health Response to Dietary Supplementation of Pineapple Peel Extract in Labeo Rohita (Hamilton, 1822) Fingerlings

Abstract

ABSTRACT: The introduction of protease enzyme supplementation in the early stages of fish can address protease deficiency, thereby promoting increased protein digestion and overall organismal well-being. This study focuses on evaluating the influence of Ananas comosus peel extract (AcPE) on the growth, biochemical profile, and haematological characteristics of Labeo rohita fingerlings. Over a 45 day period, L. rohita fingerlings were fed a basal diet enriched with AcPE (at a ratio of 1:2 extract to feed), with observations taken at 15-day intervals. The control group received the basal diet without AcPE. The findings highlight an overall enhancement in growth parameters among the experimental group fingerlings that were fed the AcPE-supplemented diet, with the exception of length gain, when compared to the control group. Examination of the fingerlings' biochemical profiles revealed a significantly higher protein and amino acid content, while carbohydrate and lipid content remained relatively stable within the two groups. In terms of haematological profiles, a noteworthy increase in total red blood cell count and haematocrit value was observed, while white blood cell count and haemoglobin concentration did not exhibit significant variations. This study underscores the potential benefits of incorporating AcPE into the basal diet as an eco-friendly approach for waste management, while simultaneously enhancing the growth and health of L. rohita fingerlings.