Evaluating Schizochytrium Supplementation on Growth Performance and Skin Colouration in Electric Yellow Cichlids (Labidochromis caeruleus)

In this study, the effects of Schizochytrium sp. supplementation (SCH) to feed on growth and skin coloration in electric yellow cichlid (Labidochromis caeruleus) were investigated. Fish (1.93 ± 0.23 g initial weight) were fed with commercial fish feed as the control group (C) and commercial fish feed supplemented with 0.5% (SCH05) and 1% (SCH1) SCH for 60 days. The SCH05 and SCH1 groups displayed the highest final weight (FW), weight gain (WG), and specific growth rate (SGR) values, with similarly favorable feed conversion ratio (FCR) levels compared to the C group (p<0.05). The SCH1 group exhibited statistically significant differences from the C and SCH05 groups concerning lightness (L*) and hue values (p<0.05). The redness (a*) values in the SCH05 and SCH1 groups showed a statistically significant difference compared to the C group (p<0.05). However, there were no statistically significant differences in the yellowness (b*) and Ch values among all groups. To conclude, the inclusion of SCH microalga as a dietary supplement markedly promoted growth performance and facilitated the attainment of marketable size in electric yellow cichlids. Additionally, although the enhancement in skin coloration resulting from the addition of 0.5% SCH to the feed did not reach a significant difference, it hints at a promising advantage that could enhance the aesthetic allure and market value of the fish.