Effect of microencapsulated extract of Ficus bemghalensis on growth and reproductive performance in sword tail (Xiphophorus helleri)

These experiments were performed to determine the effects of encapsulated extract of Ficus benghalensis on growth and reproductive performance in Xiphophorus helleri. For this purpose, the extract was encapsulated using gum Arabic and maltodextrin. Encapsulated extract was then incorporated with the artificial feeds at concentration of 0.0 (A: control), 200 (B), 400 (C) and 800 (D) mg kg-1 of dry diet and fed to male fish for a period of 14 weeks. Females were fed with control diet. Results showed that the number of larvae per female in all treatments were not significantly different (P>0.05). Fry survival was significantly higher in group 4 compared to other groups (P<0.05). Moreover, no significant differences in the weight of fry were observed within the experimental groups (P>0.05). The gonadosomatic index was found higher in group 4 as compared to other groups (P<0.05). Estradiol levels in group 1 and 2 were significantly higher than group 3 and 4 (P<0.05). The levels of progesterone and testosterone were significantly higher in group 3 and 4 as compared to the group 1 and 2 (P<0.05). Results also showed that the highest and lowest level of total serum protein observed in group 4 and 1 respectively. Also the WBC, RBC and hematocrit level in group 3 and 4 were higher than group 1 and 2. Overall, the survey results showed that Ficus benghalensis encapsulated extract can increase reproductive performance.