Housefly Maggot Meal (Magmeal) as a Protein Source for Oreochromis niloticus (Linn.)

Abstract

A 56 day feeding trial was conducted to evaluate the potential ofhousefly mag-got meal (magmeal) as a protein source for tilapia (Oreochromisniloticus) fingerlings. Seven isoenergetic diets formulated to contain36% protein and 20 kJ X g power minus1 gross energy (dry matter basis),were prepared by replacing fish meal with magmeal. Fifteen fingerlings(average initial weight 2.0�0.1g) stocked in each experimental tankwere fed in triplicates at 5% of their body weight in two portionsper day (a level previously established). Growth and food conversionratio were adequate and comparable without any significant differences(P<0.5) between feeding groups. Result of nutrient composition analysisshowed that magmeal contains a good profile of amino acid comparedto fish meal, but has a high content of crude fat (19.8%) which influencedthe fat content and fatty acid composition of diets and fish. FeedingOreochromis niloticus fingerlings with feeds containing magmeal cangive growth, equivalent to that obtained with fishmeal as the mainprotein source. However, it is recommended that adequate sourcesof n � 6 and n � 3 fatty acids are included in diets of magmeal toenhance the optimal fatty acid profile necessary for metabolic functions.