Unconventional protein sources in the first feeding of South American catfish (Rhamdia quelen)

Abstract

This study aimed to evaluate different proteins sources in first feeding of jundiá (Rhamdia quelen) under laboratory conditions. Three balanced dry rations were tested, fish roe (TA), biological fish silage (TB) and crude chicken liver (TC) evaluating specific growth rate, final biomass produced and survival rate. The experiment was performed in 20 days, and all the rations were provided ad libitum. Larvae fed with fish roe presented better results, with 340mg of individual mean weight, 57% of survival rate and 1.350mg of final biomass, differing significantly with the other treatments. The results show that the inclusion of fish roe in balanced rations offered at the first feeding of jundiá larvae may become a promising alternative for the hatchering of the species.

artificial diet; larvae; feeding; fish roe; protein; Rhamdia quelen