Biosynthesis of gold nanoparticles and its impacts on striped dwarf catfish (Mystus vittatus) as feed additives

The study evaluated the impacts of gold nanoparticles (AuNPs) on striped dwarf catfish’s ( Mystus vittatus) growth, survival, and hematological parameters. Gold nanoparticles were synthesized using lemon ( Citrus limon ) extract, and four experimental diets incorporating 0, 10, 30, and 50 mg of AuNPs per Kg of fish feed were prepared as treatments T0 (control), T1, T2, and T3, respectively. Forty-five days old (0.7±0.00 g) 60 fingerlings were stocked in each glass aquarium and the diets were administered daily for 75 days. The treatment T2 resulted in a significant ( P <0.05) increase in growth performances, feed conversion ratio, protein efficiency ratio, and survival rate. Besides, significant ( P <0.05) differences were found in hematological parameters such as red blood cell count, hemoglobin level, and white blood cell count in the T2 treatment. However, a significant decrease in the white blood cell counts was observed in T3 treatment. Improved histological condition of hepatocytes was noticed in all treatments compared to the control. Hence, the results from this study suggest that the incorporation of 30 mg/Kg of biosynthesized AuNPs in the diet could be a promising strategy for enhancing the growth, survivability, and hematological parameters of M. vittatus . • Gold nanoparticles (AuNPs) enriched feed improved the growth performances and, feed utilization ratio of Mystus vittatus . • Improved survivability and, hematological parameters indicating enhanced disease resistance capability. • Hepatocyte vacuolation, swelling, and shifting of nuclei toward the membrane were minimized. • Prospect of gold nanoparticles inclusion as commercial feed additives.