Moringa oleifera as feed additive in Clarias gariepinus culture: An organic water quality management technique to boost fish production

Abstract

The study aimed at evaluating effect of using Moringa oleifera leaf to boost fish production and manage water quality was conducted in 12 weeks. One hundred and eighty Clarias gariepinus juveniles average weight (37.80g) and length (10.96cm) used for the study were distributed in fifteens into 12 tarpaulin tanks of 1m x1m x 1m and grouped into four treatments in triplicates (T1A – C to T4A – C). They were fed with commercial feed, (Blue crown), to which were added M. oleifera leaf meal (MLM) at the rate of 0g, 5g, 10g and 15g/kg of feed to give different treatment diets (T1 – T4). T1 was the control. The MLM was bound to the feed using starch. Data collected were analysed by ANOVA and Duncan Multiple Range Test (DMRT) used to separate means where there was significant difference (p<0.05). Fish were sampled fortnightly for length and weight measurement, and water samples taken to test for pH, dissolved oxygen, ammonia and temperature. Results showed that addition of 15g of M. oleifera leaf meal per kg of feed increased weight significantly (P<0.05) and resulted in reduced ammonia production. Thus use of M. oleifera at 15g/kg of feed is recommend in ponds to help improve water quality through suppressing pollution by ammonia, and consequently improving fish production.