Effects of Cassia tora (L) Feed Supplement on Growth and Nutrients Utilization of Clarias gariepinus (Buchell, 1882)

Abstract

This study investigates the dietary sustainability of Cassia tora leaf and seed as a substitute for animal protein in the diet of Clarias gariepinus. A completely randomized design (CRD) was used. The leaves and seeds were collected from the Federal University, Dutse, Jigawa State, and identified at Bayero University, Kano. The leaves were washed and shade-dried, while the seeds were manually threshed, rinsed, boiled, air-dried, and ground into powder. One hundred and fifty fish were purchased from Phed Agrovet in Kano, acclimatized, and cultured for twelve weeks. The fish were fed diets containing 0%, 25%, 50%, 75%, and 100% of C. tora leaves and seeds, separately and in combination, with three replicates per treatment. Fish were fed 5% of their body weight twice daily. Growth performance and nutrient utilization were assessed through parameters like mean weight gain (WTG), specific growth rate (SGR), percentage weight gain (PWG), feed conversion ratio (FCR), and survival rate. The best weight gain (29.32±32) was observed in fish fed 25% leaf and seed meal, while the lowest (16.84±1.86) was in those fed with seed meal only. Fish fed 25% leaf and seed had the highest feed intake (55.8±4.97) and specific growth rate (3.8±0.34). Protein content did not differ significantly across treatments, but lipid content was significantly higher in the 25% leaf and seed diet. This study concludes that up to 25% of C. tora can replace animal protein in the diet of C. gariepinus without compromising growth performance.