The effect of Spirulina on reproductive parameters, body composition, immune indices and digestive enzyme in dwarf gourami (Trichogaster lalius)

Rearing of ornamental fishes allocated high levels of annual income from the aquaculture industry. Spirulina is a blue-green algae, spiral shape with a diameter of 12 microns and rich source of protein, vitamins, amino acids and essential fatty acids, minerals and antioxidant pigments. Using different levels of spirulina was evaluated on immune indicators, digestive enzymes and reproductive parameters (fecundity and sexual maturation) of dwarf gourami.  One hundred and forty five dwarf gourami with an average weight of 3.6±0.23g were randomly distributed in twenty 12-liter aquarium. Four diets were prepared consisting of spirulina at levels of 3%, 7% and 10% substituted by fish meal and with a control diet. Parameters related to body biochemical, reproductive, digestive enzymes and immune index were measured. Increasing spirulina up to 7% enhance the ovarian weight (p<0.05). Hatching percentage and fecundity working has shown a significant increase with spirulina increased (p<0.05). Lipase, amylase and protease has significantly increased with increasing spirulina (p<0.05). Lysozyme and serum bactericidal have significantly increased with the increase of spirulina (p<0.05). Based on results 3% of spirulina due to improved reproductive factors and 10% to enhance immune indices and digestive enzymes in dwarf gourami considered as the best levels of substitution with fishmeal.