Growth Performance of Oreochromis Niloticus Fry Fed with Two Different Starter Diets

This study was conducted at Joseph Sarwuan Tarka University, Benue State, Nigeria to assess the growth performance of Nile tilapia (Oreochromis niloticus) fry fed Coppens and Skretting starter diets. A total of 200 fry were stocked at a density of 50 fry per 50 litre tanks. The experimental diets, Coppens and Skretting starter feeds were administered 4 times daily to satiation for a period 8 weeks (56 days) in two replicates per diet, utilizing four aerated plastic tanks. Weekly sampling was conducted to evaluate specific growth rate (SGR) and survival rate across the treatments. Statistical analysis revealed to significant differences (p>0.05) between the two diets treatment in terms of weight gain and length increment, although slight variations were observed. The average water temperature and pH during the experiment were 27.45°C ±0.77 and 7.35±0.15, respectively. The results indicates that both feed types performed comparably in promoting growth and survival rates of the fry. However, considering the higher costs of Coppens feed, Skretting starter feed is recommended as a more cost-effective alternative for aquaculture operations.