Effect of the replacement of soyabean with Leucena leucocephala on growth performance of African catfish (Clarias gariepinus) fingerlings

Abstract

This study examined the utilization of Leucaena leucocephala seed meal (LSM) by Clarias gariepinus fingerlings. five isonitrogenous; 40% crude protein diets were formulated where LSM replaced Soya bean meal (SBM) at 0%, 25%, 50%, 75% and 100% inclusions. Catfish fingerlings (5.21 ± 0.14 g) stocked at 5 fish/40 liters tanks were fed diets in triplicates three times daily for 70 days. Data from the completely randomized experiment were subjected to ANOVA and analysis was separated at 5% probability level. The mean weight gain, feed Intake, relative weight gain, Specific growth rate as well as Feed conversion ratio decreased with increase in Leucena seed inclusion in the diet. The control diet with 0% Soyabean replacement level recorded the highest mean value while the least mean value was recorded in treatment V. ANOVA showed that there was significant difference (P