EFFECTS OF WET AND DRY BIO-FLOC ON WATER QUALITY, GROWTH, HEMATOLOGICAL AND BIOCHEMICAL PARAMATERS OF

Abstract

Bio-flocs (BFT), the aggregates of bacteria, algae, protozoa, or other organisms along with particulate organic matters, are rich in proteins, lipids, vitamins, and minerals. Black catfish (Clarias fuscus) is an economically valuable fish species and can be used as a medicinal ingredient. Black catfish has a sweet, moist taste and mild-flavored, its flesh is non-toxic and can strengthen blood and qi as well as relieves the pain. The effects of wet and dry BFT biomass on water quality and the growth of black catfish were evaluated in this study. BFT was produced in two 1000L composite tanks with daily molasses supplement to adjust the C: N ratio in the water at a ratio of 12: 1. After that, black catfish were fed with a combination of artificial feeds and either wet or dry BFT biomass, for 8 weeks. When the artificial feed source decreased (from 100% to 50%), the amount of BFT biomass replaced correspondingly (7 treatments). The results showed that the concentration of nitrate, TSS, TAN ... of water of the wet BFT received tanks decreased strongly. Additionally, SGR, FCR, PER, hematological and biochemical parameters of black catfish in dry BFT received tanks were less than those of wet BFT received tanks. Thus, the supplement of wet BFT biomass (50%) to feed provides a more beneficial effect for farmed black catfish.