Perspectives on utilization of macrophytes as feed ingredient for fish in future aquaculture

Aquaculture activity supplies high-quality protein at affordable cost. A global call for foods of aquatic origin has heightened not only due to the zooming population growth, but also because of a choice of healthier foods for human beings. As the industry expands, it is facing the high cost of feeding because the key ingredients, that is fishmeal and fish oil, of aquadiet are very expensive. Identification of alternate foodstuffs that will remarkably minimize the expense of productivity of animal protein becomes a priority with due regard to environmental footprint. Alternative feed components are vital in partially or completely substituting unsustainable but high-value components or constituents that will otherwise have direct competition with human use. Utilization of aquatic plants as a substitute for fish meal has the potential to revolutionize aquaculture in meeting global protein demand. A lot of money is spent on aquatic weed management, so this research idea tries to integrate both economic aspects and the environmental concerns. Macrophyte-based feed ingredients have promising nutrient profile: crude protein ranges between 11% and 32%; lipid, 2.90% and 16.81%; and ash, 8% and 31%, a good array of amino acids; and a good amount of micro- and macronutrients that make them prosperous substituents for fish feed.

Automated summary

Aquaculture plays a vital role in providing high-quality protein at affordable costs, and the global demand for aquatic foods is increasing. The search for alternative food components to replace expensive fishmeal and fish oil is a current research focus, with the use of aquatic plants as feed substitutes showing great potential.