Rose petal meal as a natural carotenoid source for pigmentation and growth of rosy barb (Puntius conchonius).

Abstract

Effect of supplemental feed fortified with graded levels of rose petals meal as natural carotenoids source on carotenoids concentration in the muscle and skin, weight gain, feed conversion ratio, survival % and biochemical composition of muscle in an Indian ornamental fish, rosy barb, (Puntius conchonius) was studied. Control diet was prepared by using ingredients fish meal 25%, soyabean meal 22%, groundnut oil cake 15%, rice bran 20%, wheat flour 12%, starch powder 3%, soya oil 2% and vitamins & minerals 1%. The experimental diets were prepared by supplementing rose petals meal at five concentrations viz. 1%, 2%, 4%, 6% and 8% of the control diet replacing the same amount of rice bran. An experimental feeding trial for 45 days duration has been conducted using the experimental feeds. Total carotenoids concentration in the muscle and skin of rosy barb at the end of experimental feeding trial significantly increased with the supplementation of rose petals meal in the diet, highest being in 4% levels. The weight gain and increase in length was significantly higher in 4% rose petals meal supplemented diet. The feed conversion ratio was significantly lower in 4% rose petals meal supplemented diet. The survival % of fish as well as biochemical composition of fish muscle was not affected due to incorporation of various level of rose petals meal in the experimental diets. The results showed that rose petals meal can safely be supplemented at 4% levels in the diets of rosy barb to increase their skin coloration.