PREPARATION OF LOCALLY FISH FEED FORMULATION

This study evaluated the growth performance and survival of fish fed with locally formulated feed and industrial feed over a three-month period. The experiment aimed to determine the viability of locally formulated feed as a cost-effective alternative to industrial feed in aquaculture. Results revealed that both feed types supported appreciable growth and high survival rates, with slight variations in their performance across different stages. During the first month, fish fed with industrial feed exhibited higher weight gain (195g) compared to those on locally formulated feed (170g), likely due to the industrial feed's superior nutrient balance and digestibility. However, in the second month, fish fed with locally formulated feed outperformed those on industrial feed, gaining 75g versus 30g, suggesting improved feed utilization as the fish adapted to the local feed. By the third month, growth performance was comparable, with weight gains of 55 g and 50g for industrial and locally formulated feeds, respectively. Survival rates were high for both groups, with minor differences (98% for industrial feed and 96% for local feed), indicating the safety and adequacy of both feed types. Environmental factors were maintained within optimal ranges to ensure that growth differences resulted primarily from feed type. The findings highlight the potential of locally formulated feeds to serve as an affordable alternative for small-scale aquaculture, provided they are well-prepared and nutritionally balanced. Recommendations include optimizing local feed formulations, providing training for fish farmers, and conducting long-term studies to further assess the economic and nutritional viability of locally formulated feeds.