Comparative analysis of the haemato‐biochemical parameters and growth characteristics of Oreochromis niloticus (Nile tilapia) cultured under different feed and habitats (biofloc technology and earthen pond system)

Abstract

Assessing fish haemato‐biochemical profile and growth performance is essential to monitor the influence of fish feed and habitat on fish physiology. The influence of two regularly used different commercial feeds and varied environments such as pond and biofloc systems on haemato‐biochemical and growth parameters of Oreochromis niloticus was studied by the results of 4‐month experiment. Fish ponds and biofloc systems where all the fish were supplied either feed A and B were surveyed weekly. The crude protein content of feed A was 30%, while that of feed B was 28%. Physico‐chemical characteristics of water in all culturing systems were suitable for Nile Tilapia production throughout the study period. Results revealed a significant difference (p < 0.05) in most haemato‐biochemical parameters. Growth performance was better in fish fed on feed A than feed B in both culture systems. In between, the habitat wide range of haemato‐biochemical indices and fish growth parameters were significantly higher in biofloc technology than pond culture system. However, no significant difference (p > 0.05) was recorded in fish enzymatic activities in both systems. Furthermore, it was found that both the length and weight gain were positively associated with the crude protein of the feeds. However, in the case of biofloc, crude protein of both feeds works far better than the pond, as indicated by the p‐value and regression R square. Current study delivers the basic knowledge to observe fish blood and growth parameters, which could be essential to understanding the fish culture management and environment.

Biofloc System with Different Carbon Sources Improved Growth, Haematology, Nonspecific Immunity, and Resistivity against the Aeromonas hydrophila in Common Carp, Cyprinus carpio

“…Similarly, in other studies, it has been found that different carbon sources in biofloc affect the haematology of different aquatic species, such as C. carpio [52], L. rohita [47], and Pangasianodon hypophthalmus [56]. Several studies revealed that the culture system, carbon source, microbial diversity, environment, fish species, age, sex, water parameters, seasons, diet, and disease influence the blood profile of aquatic species [4,6,[57][58][59].…”

“…In this study, the C/N ratio was maintained at 15 to maximize the efficiency of the conversion of the inorganic nitrogen to protein by the microbes. Aquatic species' health depends heavily on water quality characteristics, which can be a limiting factor [4]. The water quality parameters of our study are according to the study of Ahmad.H et al [35] on Labeo rohita in a biofloc system with different carbon sources, and Rind et al [6] on Nile tilapia, Oreochromis niloticus reared in a biofloc system.…”

“…However, biofloc technology (BFT) offers an alternative approach by creating a controlled environment where beneficial microorganisms form flocs, reducing the need for frequent water changes. Thus, this method minimizes water exchange costs and, therefore, emphasizes the importance of consistently managing water quality within the system to ensure optimal conditions for aquatic organisms [4,5]. Bioflocs contain a combination of various floc-forming microorganisms, including bacteria, protozoa, organic polymers, phytoplankton, rotifers, nematodes, microalgae, copepods, annelids, dead cells, cations, colloids, and uneaten feed [6].…”

“…Bioflocs contain a combination of various floc-forming microorganisms, including bacteria, protozoa, organic polymers, phytoplankton, rotifers, nematodes, microalgae, copepods, annelids, dead cells, cations, colloids, and uneaten feed [6]. The entire floc former combines with the others to build a mass that fish can eat, which helps with nutrient recycling and enhances fish growth [7]. In the biofloc rearing system, the protein content of the commercial feed can be reduced from 35% to 25% due to the availability of microbial protein that compensates for the low protein content in the diet [2].…”

Comparative analysis of hemato‐biochemical profile, growth performance, and body composition of Common Carp cultured under different feed and habitats (biofloc technology and earthen pond systems)

“…We found that fish receiving feed A displayed significantly greater levels of total protein, A:G ratio, and glucose than fish that were given feed B in both ponds and biofloc systems; however, on a habitat basis, significant decreases in these biochemical parameters were recorded for fish cultured in ponds relative to biofloc‐cultured fish that received the same feed. This significant difference in fish biochemical parameters is due to varied habitats and, therefore, two different sets of environmental conditions, as revealed by other studies (Aras et al 2008; Habib et al 2022). An increase in the levels of enzymatic activities (ALT, AST, and ALP) in fish blood plasma indicates a state of stress.…”