The effects of dietary carbohydrate level on the growth performance, body composition and feed utilization of juvenile Kelabau (Osteochilus melanopleurus)

Abstract

This study was conducted to evaluate the effect of feeding with different carbohydrate (CHO) content on growth performance and body composition in kelabau (Osteochilus melanopleurus). Treatments consisted in 3 experimental iso-nitrogenous and iso-lipid diets, at different CHO levels: 30.50% (A), 32.76% (B), and 34.83% (C). Treatments were applied to O. melanopleurus culture specimens, with an average weight of 3.18±0.26 g and a stocking density of 20 individuals, maintained in plastic tubs measuring 54.3 x 38 x 31.5 cm and filled with 40 L of water. O. melanopleurus was fed 2 times a day at satiation basis, for 60 days. The result showed that fish fed with diet B (32.76%) had higher growth performance and feed utilization compared to the other groups (A and C) (P<0.05). The increase in carbohydrate administration in O. melanopleurus from 30.50% to 34.82% CHO does not affect the liver and muscle glycogen levels, but does affect the lipid liver content.