Effect of Feeding Frequency on Lipid Accumulation in Ayu

Abstract

The effect of feeding frequency on lipid accumulation in ayu Plecoglossus altivelis was investigated by feeding fish (11 g, initial body weight) either once (group I), twice (group II), or four (group III) times per day. The average weight of diet fed to groups I, II, and III were 3132, 4231, and 4090 g, respectively. There were no differences in biomass production and feed utilization among the groups. The average body weight was lowest in group I, reflecting low food intake. The lowest muscle triglyceride level was noted in the group fed four times a day. On the other hand, two feedings resulted in the highest triglyceride deposition in muscle. Feeding frequency did not influence the weight of intraperitoneal fat body, but feeding four times resulted in the smallest cell size. Starvation for 16 days caused some differences in the mode of lipid mobilization among the groups. Body weight loss during starvation decreased with increase in feeding frequency. It was confirmed that frequent feeding reduced lipid accumulation. This suggests that lipid metabolism may be highly influenced by feeding frequency. © 1994, The Japanese Society of Fisheries Science. All rights reserved.