Effect of different levels of ethanol extract of Corchorus olitorius on reproductive and growth factors in sword tail (Xiphophorus helleri)

In the present study the effect of different levels of ethanol extract of Corchorus olitorius on reproductive performance and some growth factors in Xiphophorus helleri were studied. Ethanol extract (70%) of plant extracted with microwave and concentrated using the rotary-evaporator. The extract was then powderd using the freez-dryer. The prepared extract was incorporated with the artificial feeds at concentration of 0.0 (A), 200 (B), 400 (C) and 800 (D) mg kg-1 of dry diet and fed to fish for a period of 14 weeks. The results showed that Gonadosomatic index, the weight of female broodstock, length of female broodstock and fry survival was significantly higher in group 3 as compared to other groups (P<0.05). Relative fecundity was lowest in group A. The results of the relative fecundity showed that there was no significant difference (P>0.05) between group A and B and also between C and D. The length and weight of fry in groups 3 and 4 were significantly higher than other groups (P<0.05). The gonadosomatic index was found lower in group 1 and 2 as compared to other groups. Moreover, no significant differences in the sex ratio were observed within the experimental groups (P>0.05).