Growth performance and feed conversion ratio (FCR) in hybrid fish (Catla catla x Labeo rohita) fed on wheat bran, rice broken and blood meal

Growth performance and feed conversion ratio (FCR) of wheat bran, rice broken and blood meal were evaluated in hybrid fish Catla catla x Labeo rohita. Two replicates for each treatment (ingredient) were followed. The feed was supplied at the rate of 4% of wet body weight of fish fingerlings twice a day. The fish gained higher body weight (1.60 ± 0.14g) on wheat bran, followed by rice broken (1.51 ± 0.07g) and blood meal (1.24 ± 0.09g). The body weight of fish on wheat bran and rice broken was significantly higher (p<0.05) than those fed blood meal, while the difference between the former two groups was non significant. The total length obtained by the fish averaged 5.06 ± 0.03, 5.05 ± 0.09 and 4.96 ± 0.32 cm on wheat bran, rice broken and blood meal, respectively, the difference being non significant. Feed conversion ratio (FCR) was highest (poorest) on blood meal (1.68 ± 0.96), followed by that of rice broken (1.64 ± 0.64) and wheat bran (1.59 ± 0.71). The FCR value for wheat bran was significantly better than that for rice broken and blood meal. It was concluded that efficacy of wheat bran was better for the growth of hybrid fish and this supported the inclusion of this ingredient in the diet of hybrids.