Effects of dietary Boesenbergia rotunda (L.) Mansf. rhizome extract on the growth of hybrid catfish (Clarias macrocephalus × Clarias gariepinus)

The objective of this study was to examine the effects of dietary Boesenbergia rotunda (L.) Mansf. rhizome extract on the growth performance, intestinal histology, digestive enzymes, hematological, and biochemical indices of hybrid catfish (Clarias macrocephalus × C. gariepinus). The phytochemicals and antioxidant activity of a methanolic extract from the rhizome of B. rotunda were also evaluated. Hybrid catfish, with an average weight of 5.24 ± 0.26 g, were given diets containing B. rotunda extract at concentrations of 0 (control), 250, and 500 mg/kg for a duration of 8 weeks. Upon completion of the trial, various factors were assessed including growth performance, intestinal histology, digestive enzymes, hematology, and biochemical indices. The presence of phenolics, saponins, alkaloids, flavonoids, steroids, and tannins was identified in the extract of B. rotunda. The inclusion of B. rotunda in the diet resulted in a substantial improvement in final weight, weight gain, specific growth rate, and average daily gain (p < 0.05). The fish that were given diets containing B. rotunda showed a significant increase in the activity of digestive enzymes in their intestines (p < 0.05). Fish that were fed B. rotunda diets exhibited improved histoarchitecture of intestines (p < 0.05). The experimental fish exhibited a considerable increase in white blood cells, red blood cells, hemoglobin, and hematocrit compared to the control group (p < 0.05). Fish that were fed B. rotunda diets showed a significant increase in serum glucose levels, whereas serum cholesterol levels decreased (p < 0.05). The study found that a diet containing 250 mg of B. rotunda/kg had the potential to improve the growth performance and physiological features of hybrid catfish.