Biofloc system improves protein utilization efficiency and growth performance of Nile tilapia, <i>Oreochromis niloticus</i> fry: Experimental evidence

This study evaluated the effect of biofloc technology (BFT) on protein utilization and growth performance Oreochromis niloticus fry under green house for 14 weeks a 3 × 2 factorial design involving three crude (CP) levels (22, 27 35%) two different carbon sources. Molasses glucose were independently used as sources in BFT tanks with aeration using air stones. Mono-sex fish mean weight 0.07 ± 0.01 g total length 13.1 mm stocked at density 1 per litre. The fishes fed commercial diets that randomly assigned triplicates, control treatment being 35% CP. Feeding was done twice daily 5% body weight, while sludge siphoned weekly. Calculations specific rate (SGR), efficiency ratio (PER), food conversion (FCR), survival measurement water quality parameters also performed. Protein had significant effects (p < 0.05) dissolved oxygen (DO) NH3 interaction pH. There significantly higher FCR (0.89) than (0.56–0.57) molasses (0.59–0.63) bioflocs; furthermore, it between PER (8.42) (5.03–7.99) (4.81–7.23) bioflocs. No interactions > recorded PER. However, affected by dietary level, source, or their observed SGR condition factor. lower (2.91) (3.52–3.59) (3.49-3.56) factor (0.81) (1.72–1.83) (1.82–1.84) Survival rates (>97%) (>94%) value 74.7%. increased efficiency, which improved enhanced even level. Further studies should evaluate applicability outdoor cultures.