Performance of Clarias gariepinus Fingerlings Fed Baobab and Tamarind Pulp Powders as Sustainable Alternatives to Synthetic Vitamin-Mineral Premix

This study assessed the potential of baobab (Adansonia digitata) and tamarind (Tamarindus indica) pulp powders as sustainable replacements for synthetic vitamin-mineral premixes (SVMPs) in Clarias gariepinus fingerling diets. A completely randomized design was used to assess growth performance, hematological indices, and water quality across five dietary treatments: 3% Synthetic vitamin-mineral premix (SVMP) (control), 5% and 7% baobab pulp powder, and 5% and 7% tamarind pulp powder. A total of 300 fingerlings were randomly assigned to 15 experimental units and fed at 3% of body weight twice daily for 12 weeks. Fish fed baobab-based diets (5% and 7%) exhibited comparable weight gain and feed efficiency compared to those fed SVMP-based diets, while lower growth rates and reduced feed conversion efficiency were recorded for fish fed tamarind-based diets, suggesting poor nutrient utilization. Hematological analysis revealed no significant differences in red blood cell counts, hemoglobin concentration, or packed cell volume between fish fed baobab-based diets and those fed on SVMP diets, indicating adequate oxygen transport and immune function. However, fish fed tamarind-based diets exhibited significantly lower hematological values, suggesting anemia and physiological stress, possibly due to tannins and phytates impairing nutrient absorption. Water quality varied significantly among treatments. Diets containing SVMP (3%) and baobab pulp powder (5% and 7%) maintained stable pH and dissolved oxygen levels. In contrast, tamarind-based diets led to increased total dissolved solids and reduced dissolved oxygen, likely due to higher rate of organic matter decomposition and increased microbial oxygen demand. Baobab pulp powder demonstrated potential as an effective SVMP alternative, maintaining growth performance, hematological stability, and favorable water quality. However, tamarind pulp powder requires additional processing to mitigate its anti-nutritional factors. Future research should explore fermentation and enzymatic treatments as strategies to enhance nutrient bioavailability and feed efficiency in aquaculture.