Usefulness of Spirulina sp. Meal as Feed Additive for Giant Freshwater Prawn, Macrobrachium rosenbergii

Abstract

Juvenile giant freshwater prawns Macrobrachium rosenbergii with individual weights between 0.4-0.7g were reared with purified diets supplemented with various levels of Spirulina meal (0, 5, 10, 15, and 20%) for 60 days in duplicate indoor aquaria.
The Spirulina meal significantly improved growth, survival, and feed utilization irrespective of supplementation level. Improved growth and feed utilization by feeding Spirulina was due to enhancement of protein assimilation. Biochemical composition of abdominal muscle was not influenced by feeding Spirulina. On the other hand, midgut gland lipids were highly dependent on Spirulina level. Triglycerides and free fatty acids were elevated by Spirulina, and were highest with feed supplementation at 5% and 15%, respectively. Supplementation of more than 15% Spirulina depressed lipid level of midgut glands.
Accordingly, it is implied that inclusion of Spirulina in the diet is important for controlling the growth performance of prawns.