Potentials of Bambara Groundnut (Vigna subterranean) Protein Concentrate as a Viable Option to Fishmeal in the Diets of African Catfish (Clarias gariepinus) Juveniles

Given the sustainability challenges associated with the usage of fishmeal (FM) in aquafeed, bambara groundnut (BG) protein concentrate (BGPC) was investigated as FM substitute in the diets of African catfish, Clarias gariepinus. Protein from BG was precipitated at its iso-electric point and the product was used to replace FM at 0 (Control, BGPC0), 33 (BGPC33), 66 (BGPC66) and 100% (BGPC100). The diets, which contained similar crude protein (40%) and energy (19.5kJ/g), were fed to three groups of juveniles C. gariepinus (mean weight, 10.07±0.02g) for 45 days. The growth performance of the group fed BGPC66 was similar (P>0.05) to other groups. Feed utilization parameters were identical (P>0.05) across groups. Lymphocytes increased significantly (P<0.05) in the BGPC-fed groups compared to the control. The BGPC100-fed group had higher (P<0.05) total protein and globulin than the control group. Hepatic and serum aspartic (AST) and alanine (ALT) transaminases, serum glucose and respiratory burst activity were not significantly (P>0.05) affected by dietary BGPC. Intestinal amylase activity was significantly (P<0.05) lowered by supplementing 66 and 100% BGPC in C. gariepinus diet. This study revealed that up to 66% of FM can be substituted by BGPC in feed for C. gariepinus without eliciting significant growth, nutrient metabolism and health compromise.