Effect of orange peel on coloration in rosy barb fish (Puntius conchonius)

Abstract

The present study was conducted to assess the effect of Citrus sinensis (orange peel) on the coloration in rosy barb fish (Puntius conchonius). Experimental fish species (Puntius conchonius) were cultured for 90 days in twelve tanks in four groups. The experiment was carried out in glass aquariums. Fish were acclimated prior to the start of feeding trials for two weeks under aerated conditions to equalize their body carotenoid content. The rosy barb fish’s were stocked with 10 fish in each aquarium tank. The experimental diets were prepared with Citrus sinensis powder as a carotenoid source. One set of control and three sets of experimental groups were maintained for the colour enhancement. Three different experimental diets and one control diet were given twice a day to all the fish at the rate of 3% of their body weight. Citrus sinensis powder concentration at levels of 2%, 4% and 6% in experimental feed. At the end of the experiment carotenoid concentration was found to be the lowest in control group 0.49±0.04 μg/g with wavelength 620m and 0.48±0.02 μg/g with wavelength 680 nm. Pigmentation was recorded highest in the treatment-3, 1.08±0.02 μg/g with wavelength 620m and 1.00±0.02 μg/g with wavelength 680 nm at 6% Citrus sinensis. The study showed that Citrus sinensis is a good source of carotenoid, enhancing fish pigmentation.