Conventional fish feed ingredients like
fishmeal and plant proteins are not only expensive but
also face supply challenges due to increasing demand.
This study aimed to address this issue by exploring
alternative, cost-effective protein sources to enhance the
income of fish farmers. In this research, Cassia tora leaf
meal was investigated as a potential protein source for
the growth and survival of Labeo rohita fingerlings.
Three experimental diets were formulated, containing
Cassia tora leaf meal at 50%, 75%, and 100% of the total
dietary protein, with one diet serving as the control. All
diets maintained a consistent crude protein content of
27%. Parameters such as Feed Conversion Ratio (FCR),
Specific Growth Rate (SGR), and weight gain were
evaluated while feeding Labeo rohita fingerlings with the
Cassia tora leaf meal-based diets. The results
demonstrated that the performance of the fish was
influenced by the concentration of Cassia tora leaf meal
in their diet, with FCR values fluctuating with varying
levels of inclusion. Notably, the study revealed that as the
inclusion level of Cassia tora leaf meal increased, the
overall performance of the fingerlings decreased.
Specifically, the supplementation of Cassia tora leaf meal
at 50% and 75% in the diet positively impacted the
growth and survivability of Rohu fish. The research also
highlighted a significant increase in size, weight gain,
and growth from the beginning to the end of the study.
This suggests that incorporating Cassia tora leaves as a
partial replacement for fishmeal can be economically
advantageous for fish farmers and the aquaculture
industry, offering a sustainable and cost-effective
solution to their protein needs.