A Nutritional Evaluation of Some Imported and Indigenous Shrimp Feeds

Abstract

Biochemical composition and water stability of six imported and five indigenous shrimp feeds were evaluated. Indigenous feeds had lower water stability and lower crude protein content (30-40%) compared to imported feeds. Feeding experimentswere conducted using Penaeus indicus juveniles (200 mg) to determine daily growth increment, feed conversion ratio and protein efficiency ratio. Significant variation (p < 0.05) existed in average daily growth rate among feeds of both imported and indigenous origin. The results indicate the need for improvements in feed technology and formulation of high quality indigenous feeds at commercial levels.