Dietary protein/lipid level and protein source effects on growth, tissue composition and lipid metabolism of blackspot seabream (Pagellus bogaraveo)

A study was carried out to determine the effects of fish meal (FM) replacement by plant protein (PP) on growth, body composition and lipid metabolism of blackspot seabream fed different protein/lipid levels. Four experimental diets were formulated to contain two protein (P) and lipid (L) levels (60P/6L or 50P/10L), varying in their protein source (100% FM or 50% FM: 50% PP). Dietary inclusion of PP did not affect growth of fish fed 60P/6L, although fish fed 50P/10L exhibited lower final body weight and daily growth index. Fish fed 60P/6L presented the highest protein and the lowest lipid content. FM replacement by PP has decreased muscle n-3 whereas the n-6 fatty acids increased. Glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase and fatty acid synthetase (FAS) were depressed in fish fed 50P/10L. FAS was significantly increased with 60P/6L PP which was positively correlated with lipid retention data. Those results suggest the conversion of other nutrient than lipid (protein and/or carbohydrates) into corporal fat. Hepatic lipoprotein lipase activity was lowest in fish fed PP diets. Plasma glucose peaked 1-2 h postfeeding, in all groups and was generally higher with 60P/6L FM. This work shown that besides dietary P/L level, protein source has a strong effect on species lipogenesis and lipid retention. Hence, the 50P/10L FM diet was the most cost-effective for blackspot seabream juveniles.