Rearing performance and hematological profile of Nile tilapia Oreochromis niloticus fed diet with different concentrations of calabash Crescentia cujete L. leaf extract challenged with Pseudomonas aeruginosa

Abstract

Thernincreasing global concern over the adverse effects of excessive antibiotic usernin aquaculture has highlighted the need for natural alternatives that supportrnhealthy and sustainable fish farming while reducing the risk of antibioticrnresistance. This study evaluated the effects of Crescentia cujete CalabashrnLeaf Extract (CLE) on the growth, survival, and hematological profile of Nile tilapiarnOreochromis niloticus challenged with Pseudomonas aeruginosa. Thernresults indicated that CLE did not significantly influence growth performancernor survival rates during the experimental period. However, hematologicalrnparameters in the treatment groups were better maintained compared to therncontrol, which showed significant declines following P. aeruginosarninfection. These findings suggest that calabash leaf extract may serve as arnpromising immunostimulant to enhance disease resistance in tilapia, promotingrnhealthier and more sustainable aquaculture practices.