Growth Response and Feed Utilization of Clarias gariepinus Fingerlings Fed with Bambara Groundnut as protein source

A 56-day feeding trial was conducted to evaluate the use of Bambara groundnut as plant protein to replace Fish meal (FM) dietary animal protein in Clarias gariepinus. A diet with 100% FM (control diet A) as sole protein source was compared to diets with 25%, 50%, 75% and 100% of Bambara Groundnut Meal (BGM) replacement for diets B, C, D and E respectively. The experimental feeds were fed to replicate groups of fingerlings at 5% body weight twice daily. The effect of varied inclusion of BGM was evaluated on the growth performance and feed utilization by the experimental fish species. At the end of the study, the highest percentage weight gain (188.30±25.56), specific growth rate (0.82±0.69) and utilization of feed conversion rate (9.75±1.26) were recorded with fish fed the diet D. The result showed that growth performance and feed utilization were better in 75% BGM inclusion than 100% FM, although there was no significant difference (P<0.05) between fish fed diets A, B, C and D. The findings showed that bambara groundnut meal was accepted and digested by the experimental fish as the conventional fish meal. Conclusively, substitution of FM with 75%, 25% and 50% BGM did not compromise growth performance and feed utilization by the fish. However, maximum recommended levels of fish meal replacement by Bambara groundnut meal in diets for Clarias gariepinus can be established at 25%- 75% total protein. Keywords: Growth response, Feed utilization, Bambara groundnut, Clarias gariepinu