Effect of crude protein levels and biofloc density on growth performance of Pacific shrimp Litopenaeus vannamei

Abstract

Feeding trails were conducted to evaluate the effects of crude protein level in the feed and biofloc density on feed utilization and growth performance of Pacific shrimp Litopenaeus vannamei in an integrated biofloc system. The experimental diets were formulated with 25,35 and 45% crude protein with a combination of 15 and 30 ml/lit biofloc density and feeding trails were conducted for 90 days. From the results obtained in the present study, experimental diets having a combination of 35% crude protein with 15 ml/lit biofloc density substantially improved the feed utilization rates and simultaneously induced the highest and best growth potentials in L. vannamei. Experimental diets formulated with 25 and 45% crude protein, though also fared well, but unable to excel the rates of feed utilization and growth indices compared to 35% CP containing diet. So the combination of 35% protein feed with 15 ml/lit biofloc density capable of promoting the supplemental food source and thus excellent growth rates in L. vannamei culture operation.