Azolla, Cheap Natural Feed For Tilapia
A cheap natural feed for tilapia can now replace at most half of the commercial feeds for tilapia production, according to results of a study conducted by the Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources (BFAR) in Cagayan province.
In an experiment conducted at the BFAR experimental farm in Iguig, Cagayan, regional researchers led by Cagayan Valley Regional Director Dr. Jovita Ayson found that small floating plants in fishponds, called azolla or duckweeds, can effectively substitute for half of the commercial feeds for tilapia production. Thus, the use of this floating plant can greatly reduce the cost of feeds and give tilapia raisers a savings of 50% on feed cost.
All that fishpond operators need is to allocate a portion of their ponds for azolla production. Azolla contains 40%-45% protein, according to Dr. Ayson. Fresh azolla can replace half of the commercial feeds. Since it is used in its fresh state, there is no added cost of production, except for the cost of collection.
The BFAR researchers reported that a 50-50 combination of fresh azolla and commercial feeds recorded a higher tilapia growth rate than pure commercial feeds.
<– Azolla Pic from www.aquariummonsters.com.au