Proximate Evaluation of Fermented Tuna Viscera Substituted with Fish Meal on Growth, FCR, Protein Retention, and Enzyme Activity of Striped Catfish Fry

This study aimed to evaluate the effects of substituting fish meal with fermented tuna viscera meal on the growth performance, feed conversion ratio (FCR), protein retention, and protease enzyme activity in the striped catfish fry. The experimental diets incorporated different substitution levels (0, 10, 20, and 30%) of fermented tuna viscera meal. Parameters evaluated included survival rate, specific growth rate (SGR), feed conversion ratio (FCR), protein retention, and protease enzyme activity. Fry fed diets with 20% FTV substitution demonstrated the highest growth performance, reflected by the superior SGR (3.44%/day), lowest FCR (1.56 g/g), highest protein retention (26.04%), and protease activity (6.10 U/mg). Survival rates were high (>98%) and statistically similar across all treatments, indicating no detrimental effect of FTV inclusion. Results indicated that a 20% substitution of FM with FTV significantly enhanced feed efficiency, growth, and protein utilization in Pangasius fry. Thus, FTV represents a viable, cost-effective, and environmentally sustainable alternative protein source for Pangasius aquaculture.