Effects of different levels of betaine supplementation in diet on growth, feed efficiency indices and survival rate of pikeperch (Sander luciopreca) larvae

Document Type : Research Paper

Authors

1 Department of Fisheries, Faculty of Natural Resources, University of Tehran, Karadj, Iran

2 Center of Renewing Fish Resource Yosefpoor, Siahkal, Iran

3 Department of Fisheries, Faculty of Natural Resources, University of Sari, Sari, Iran

Abstract

The aim of current study was to determine the effects of different levels of betaine on growth performance, feeding efficiency and survival rate of Sander lucioperca larvae. The larvae (initial weight 1.52±0.06 mg) were weaned from day 12 post hatching (dph) with one of the six treatment which was commercial trout starter diet (Bio Optimal) and different levels betaine supplementation (0.5, 1, 1.5, 2 and 2.5%) as well as a treatment that was feeding with live food (Artemianauplii) as control group. Trial lasted for 4 weeks (until 40 dph). The best final weight, Specific growth rate, final length and condition factor was obtained in control group (P<0.05). Different levels of betaine supplementation had no significant effects on growth performance. Feed conversion ratio showed no significant difference between treatments, however food efficiency ratio was significantly higher in control group (P<0.05). The highest survival rate and cannibalism was observed in control group while larvae fed artificial diet (i.e Bio Optimal and different levels of betaine supplementation) had 100% mortality after 33 dph. Results indicated that betaine supplementation did not improve growth and survival rate of S. lucioperca, and further studies regards weaning of pikeperch larvae are needed.

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Journal of Fisheries
Volume 66, Issue 3 - Serial Number 3
November 2013
Pages 347-358

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