Control of reproduction in juvenile Oreochromis niloticus using Nelumbo nucifera (Nelumbonaceae) powder

Context: Aquaculture represents a significant share of the Cameroonian economy, with an annual production of 5,000 tons of Nile tilapia (MINEPIA 2020). However, challenges related to fish reproduction and growth still limit the potential of this industry. This study aims to evaluate the effect of adding Nelumbo nucifera leaf powder to the diet of juvenile Nile tilapia on their growth and reproductive parameters. Methodology: The study was conducted at the Agropastoral FishCam farm, located in the Central Region of Cameroon. A total of 240 juvenile Oreochromis niloticus with an average weight of 12.3 ± 2.82 g were divided into four groups of 60 juveniles each, housed in 1 m x 1m x 1m happas within a 400 m² pond. Each group was further divided into three subgroups of 20 fish, corresponding to the group's repetitions. The fish were fed an isoproteic pelleted feed made from local ingredients for 42 days. Fish in Group 0 received feed without Nelumbo nucifera powder, while those in Groups 1, 2, and 3 were fed diets containing 0.03%, 0.06%, and 0.09% of Nelumbo nucifera leaf powder, respectively. After 42 days, 30 fish were randomly selected per treatment and sacrificed to assess reproductive parameters. Results: The results show that treatment T1 (0.03% of Nelumbo nucifera powder) recorded the highest values for average weight gain, average daily weight gain, and specific growth rate. The highest survival rate was recorded in animals from group 2. The T1 diet also significantly induced the highest indices (gonadosomatic index, Hepatosomatic Index). Conclusion: In light of the results, we recommend using Nelumbo nucifera at 0.03% in the diet of Oreochromis niloticus to improve reproductive and growth parameters. This study provides valuable information for fish farmers seeking to optimize Nile tilapia production.