Impact of Chromolaena odorata Leaf on Growth and Reproductive Performance of Clarias gariepinus Broodstock

Abstract

This study was conducted to assess the effects of Chromolaena odorata leaf (COL) on the growth and reproductive performance of Clarias gariepinus broodstock. The feeding trial was carried out in an earthen pond unit with 24 net-hapas (0.6 m x 1.1 m x 1.2 m (LBH) suspended within the pond. Forty-eight table-sized Clarias gariepinus (Age = 7 months; Sex = 24 males, 24 females) were randomly stocked and allotted to four dietary treatments [0%- Control 1, 0.5%-COL 2, 1%-COL 3, and 1.5%- COL 4], at two fish (both sexes) per net-hapa in six replicates. Chromolaena odorata leaf paste was prepared using standard procedures, mixed into each diet, and pelletized to 6 mm. The feeding trial lasted 16 weeks. The growth performance and reproductive parameters (relative fecundity-RF, gonadosomatic indices-GSI, hepatosomatic index of liver-HSI) of the fish and hatchability of eggs were evaluated. The results showed that broodstock fish fed diets containing Chromolaena odorata leaf had better growth compared to those fed the control diet. Weight gain, relative fecundity, and weight of the ovaries and testes of the fish increased as the inclusion levels of Chromolaena odorata leaf in the diets increased. Broodstock fish fed diets containing Chromolaena odorata leaf had a higher gonadosomatic index than those on the control diet. Inclusion of Chromolaena odorata leaf up to 1.5% in diets reduced the fish gonadosomatic and hepatosomatic index. Hatchability rate was highest (49.66%) in fish fed diets containing Chromolaena odorata leaf. In conclusion, inclusion of Chromolaena odorata leaf in the fish diet improved the growth and reproductive performance of Clarias gariepinus broodstock.