Effects of Abelmoschus esculentus leaf as binder in the diet of Oreochromis niloticus fingerlings

Abstract. The experiment was conducted to assess the use of Abelomoschus esculentus leaves soaked for 24 hours as binders in the production of fish feed pellets. Physical properties and dietary effects of the diets were assessed. There was no significant difference (P>0.05) in the sinking rate (cm.sec-1) and bulk density (g/cm3) of experimental diets. There were significant differences (P<0.05) in the thickness strength (mm), water absorption index, hardness (mm) and water stability (%) of experimental diets. Diets MAA and MAW had the highest water stability (88.90±0.46%) while the lowest one was in diet MAI (85.20±0.10%). There was a significant difference (P<0.05) in the friability of experimental diets at different revolution speeds. The highest protein retention was recorded in diet MAI (95.83%) and the lowest one was in diet WHH (91.24%). There was no significant difference (P>0.05) in the mean final weight, mean weight gain, specific growth rate, feed conversion ratio, and feed efficiency of experimental fish-feed experimental diets. Diet MWA had the lowest FCR, the highest FER and SGR. There was a significant difference (P<0.05) in the crude protein, fat, and ash content of carcass of fish fed experimental diets. Fish fed diet MWA had the highest carcass crude protein content (49.27±1.51) and the lowest one was in diet WHE (47.15±0.24). The results showed that A. esculentus leaves can be used as a binder in the production of quality fish feed pellets.