Effect of Protein level on Alevins growth and intestinal villi development of Tilapia (Orechromis aureus)

Abstract

Aquaculture is important protein production system, mainly through Tilapia species usage. The quality of dietary protein is an important factor influencing the growth performance of fish, which limits the intestine development. Six hundred two days old Tilapia alevins Oreochromis aurecus, were divided in groups of 100 (repetition) in commercial ponds, to evaluate 2 levels of protein in feed (40 vs. 50%). Parameters measured were, body weight, size (long) villi development in the small intestine. Results showed that the parameters from animals fed with 50% protein were significantly higher than those found in the alevins receiving the feed with 40% protein (p< 0.05). On the other hand, the age impact was most important in general for all the individuals. Small intestine villi showed a bigger development with 50% protein in feed. In conclusion, feed containing 40% protein, at the age fingerlings could delay corporal and intestinal villi development.