Evaluation of Jute Leaf as Feed Ingredient for Labeo rohita Fingerlings

Abstract

A 60 day feeding trial was conducted to evaluate the suitability of jute (Corchorus olitorius) leaf powder, as a dietary protein source for Labeo rohita fingerlings. One control feed without jute leaf JL0 (0%) and four experimental feeds were prepared with graded levels of jute leaf powder viz; JL10 (10%), JL20 (20%), JL30 (30%) and JL40 (40%) respectively along with rice bran, soybean meal, mustard oil cake, vegetable oil and vitamin-mineral mixture. The feed with 20% of jute leaves (JL20) showed significantly (P<0.05) higher net weight gain, specific growth rate, protein efficiency ratio and daily growth coefficient. The feed conversion ratio was
lower (P<0.05) in JL20. The carcass composition revealed that carcass protein and lipid content was significantly (P<0.05) higher in JL20. It may be concluded that jute leaf powder can be incorporated in the feed of rohu fingerlings up to 20%.