Influence of dietary protein
deficiency on amino acid and fatty acid composition in tilapia, Oreochromis
niloticus, fingerlings
J.O. Ogunji, M. Wirth-2002
Israeli Journal of Aquaculture-Bamidgeh, 54(2): 64-72
(from Current Contents)
Abstract :
The influence of dietary protein deficiency on the
amino acid and fatty acid compositions of tilapia (Oreochromis niloticus)
fingerlings was studied. Two experimental diets (0.81% and 33.32% protein,
dry matter) were prepared. The protein content of fish fed diet 1 (0.81%
protein) decreased from 57.14% to 49.18% in eight weeks. Fish fed diet 2
(33.32% protein) had higher protein and amino acid contents. The lipid
content of fish fed diet I was higher than that of fish fed diet 2,
suggesting that carbohydrates transformed into lipids. The levels of fatty
acids 16:0 and 18:2 n-6 in fish fed diet 1 remained nearly unchanged and did
not reflect the diet, demonstrating that fatty acids in diet 1 may not have
been incorporated into the triglycerides of the tissues. Possible impairment
of lipid secretion from the liver, caused by depletion of protein in the
blood lipoprotein, may have affected the transport of lipids to the muscles.
A dietary protein deficiency results not only in a deficiency of essential
amino acids in the body but also affects transport and storage of lipids
within the fish.
(Ebonyi State Univ; Dept Appl Biol; PMB 53;
Abakaliki; Nigeria, e-mail: Ogunjijo@Yahoo.com)