Document Type : Original Article
Authors
1
33 st Tahrir
2
Department of Animal Production, Agricultural and Biology Institute. National Research Centre, 33 El-Bohouth Street, P.O:12622, Dokki, Giza, Egypt.
3
Department of Animal Production, Agricultural and Biology Institute. National Research Centre, Dokki, Giza, 12622, Egypt.
4
1Animal Production Department, National Research Centre, 33 El-Bohouth Street, P.O: 12622, Dokki, Giza, Egypt.
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Dep of Hydrobiology, Vet Res Div National Research Centre
6
Cell Biology Department, National Research Centre, Giza, Egypt
7
National research centre
10.21608/ejabf.2025.432749.6790
Abstract
Insect-based feed ingredients offer a sustainable approach to enhancing aquaculture productivity. This study examined the effects of dietary black soldier fly larvae meal (BSFLM) at 0, 15, 30, and 45% on growth performance, feed efficiency, blood biochemical parameters, and growth-related gene expression in the Nile tilapia (Oreochromis niloticus). A total of 120 fingerlings (36.5 ± 0.68 g) were distributed into 12 aquaria (10 fish per tank) and fed the experimental diets. BSFLM contained 35.4% crude protein, 30% ether extract, 17.95% ash, and 5511 kcal/kg dry matter. Fish receiving 15–45% BSFLM showed significant improvements in final weight, daily gain, specific and relative growth rates, feed intake, protein intake, protein efficiency ratio, and feed conversion ratio. Biochemical analysis revealed elevated serum protein and globulin levels, while ALT, AST, uric acid, creatinine, and glucose were reduced in the 15% BSFLM group. Cholesterol remained stable at 15% inclusion but increased at higher levels. Gene expression analysis indicated no significant upregulation of IGF1, with the highest levels in control and 15% groups, whereas GH expression peaked at 45% BSFLM. These results suggest that BSFLM enhances growth performance, feed utilization, and metabolic health of the Nile tilapia, with 15% dietary inclusion being optimal.
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