Replacement of Rice Bran with Curry Leaves (Murraya koenigii) in the Diet of Nile Tilapia (Oreochromis niloticus)

Author: Ashma Debbarma, Shriparna Saxena, Rejoice Uchoi and Deepak Kher

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Abstract

This study investigated the dietary substitution of rice bran with curry leaves (Murraya koenigii) in the feeding regimen of Nile tilapia (Oreochromis niloticus) over a 90-day experimental period. Four experimental diets were formulated with varying concentrations of curry leaves (0%, 33%, 66%, and 99%) replacing rice bran across three treatment groups and one control group. Growth performance metrics including weight gain, daily weight gain, specific growth rate, feed conversion ratio, protein efficiency ratio, and survival rate were assessed. Water quality parameters were monitored throughout the study period. Results showed that dietary inclusion of curry leaves significantly influenced growth performance parameters. Tilapia fed with 33% curry leaves (Treatment 1) exhibited the highest average weight gain (73.90±0.75 g), daily weight gain (0.82±0.008 g/day), and specific growth rate (1.38±0.01 %/day), with improved protein efficiency ratio (1.84±0.01) and comparable survival rates (80%) to the control group. Conversely, higher concentrations of curry leaves (66% and 99%) showed reduced growth performance and survival rates, indicating potential negative effects at higher inclusion levels

Keywords

Curry leaves, Nile tilapia, Growth performance, Proximate composition, Water parameters

Conclusion

In conclusion, dietary supplementation with curry leaves (Murraya koenigii) significantly influenced the growth performance of Nile tilapia (Oreochromis niloticus). Among the tested inclusion levels (0%, 33%, 66%, and 99%), the diet containing 33% curry leaves (T1) yielded the best growth outcomes, as evidenced by higher final weight, weight gain, and specific growth rate compared to other treatments. These results suggest that moderate inclusion of curry leaves in tilapia diets enhances growth without compromising survival rates, which remained consistently high across all dietary groups. These findings are supported by various studies emphasizing the adaptability and efficient feed utilization of Nile tilapia when exposed to diverse dietary ingredients. Further research could explore optimal inclusion rates and long-term effects on health and productivity in tilapia aquaculture. Overall, the dietary treatment with 33% curry leaves (T1) demonstrated the best performance across most growth parameters. These findings suggest that moderate inclusion of curry leaves can enhance growth performance and nutrient utilization in Nile tilapia, while excessive levels may lead to diminished outcomes. Overall, incorporating curry leaves into aquaculture diets presents a promising avenue for improving sustainable fish farming practices

References

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How to cite this article

Ashma Debbarma, Shriparna Saxena, Rejoice Uchoi and Deepak Kher (2024). Replacement of Rice Bran with Curry Leaves (Murraya koenigii) in the Diet of Nile Tilapia (Oreochromis niloticus). Biological Forum – An International Journal, 16(7): 153-159.