Effects of different levels of chamomile extract on growth and antioxidant parameters of zebrafish (Danio rerio)

An eight-week feeding trial was conducted to investigate the effects of different levels of dietary chamomile ( Matricaria recutita ) aqueous extract (CAE) on growth performance and antioxidant status of zebra fish, Danio rerio . Fish (initial weight of 0.20±0.02 g) were stocked at 12 tanks (50 fish per tank) and fed with a basal diet (32% protein and 8% lipid) supplemented with 0 (control), 0.5, 1, and 2% CAE in triplicate groups for 8 weeks. The results showed that fish fed 2% CAE had a significantly higher growth and biomass gain compared to the control group ( P <0.05). Condition factor had a significant increase in 2% CAE treatment compared with other treatments ( P <0.05). There were no significant differences in catalase, glutathione peroxidase, and superoxide dismutase activity amongst treatments ( P <0.05). Finally, it seems the use of a 0.5-2.0% CAE can be effective in improving the growth and antioxidant system of zebra fish, D. rerio.