Effects of artichoke (Cynara scolymus) leaf extract on the growth, blood, and biochemistry parameters of Nile tilapia (Oreochromis niloticus)

In this study, artichoke leaf extract (ALE) was added to the Nile tilapia diet at different ratios (0.00%, 1.00%, 2.00%, and 3.00%) for 30 days to investigate its effects on growth performance, hematological parameters, and blood biochemistry. A total of 240 fish with an average initial weight of 33.9 ± 1.14 g were used. The results showed that ALE supplementation significantly improved growth performance, with the best results observed at 2.00% inclusion (final weight: 58.01 ± 0.18 g, FCR: 1.48 ± 0.02, SGR: 1.79 ± 0.01) (p < 0.05). Hematological analysis revealed an increase in hemoglobin (Hb) levels (control: 9.18 ± 0.62 g/dL; 2.00% ALE: 12.83 ± 1.19 g/dL) and a decrease in white blood cell count (control: 3.54 ± 0.06 m/mm³; 2.00% ALE: 3.39 ± 0.07 m/mm³) (p < 0.05). Blood biochemistry results indicated a significant reduction in glucose (control: 73.67 ± 4.16 mg/dL; 2.00% ALE: 51.00 ± 2.00 mg/dL) and cholesterol levels (control: 227.67 ± 6.11 mg/dL; 2.00% ALE: 117.67 ± 3.21 mg/dL) (p < 0.05), suggesting improved metabolic balance. The findings indicate that 2.00% ALE supplementation enhances growth performance and may positively influence fish health by modulating blood parameters, making it a promising natural additive for sustainable aquaculture.