Fermented calamansi (Citrus microcarpa) waste as a functional feed additive: Nutritional, antioxidant, and anti-nutritional insights for tilapia (Oreocrhromis sp.)
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This study investigates the potential of fermented calamansi, Citrus macrocarpa, waste powder (FCWP), as a sustainable feed additive for tilapia (Oreochromis sp.). Calamansi waste, a byproduct of citrus processing, is often discarded, contributing to environmental pollution. To address this issue, the waste was repurposed as a fish feed additive through fermentation, which enhances nutrient content and bioavailability while reducing anti-nutritional factors. Fermentation trials were conducted with varying molasses concentrations (0, 5, 10, 15, and 20%) and durations (0, 14, and 28 days). The results revealed improved proximate composition (protein: 6.85-10.17%, fiber: 4.96-20.30%, fat: 2.49-3.95%, ash: 5.84-9.02%, carbohydrates: 62.87-77%) and antioxidant activity (TPC: 4.46-12.34 mg GAE/g, TFC: 0.56-1.56 mg catechin/g, DPPH: 5.68-41.57%) while reducing anti-nutritional factors (phytate: 0.06-0.067%, tannin: 11.25-23.97 mg TAE/g), with fermentation optimized at 5% molasses, 28 days. A 30-day feeding trial evaluated the effects of FCWP (0 and 3% inclusion levels) on tilapia growth performance, survival, water quality, gut microbiota, and stress tolerance. The results showed significant improvements in weight gain, specific growth rate (SGR), survival rate, and resilience to osmotic stress in the FCWP-fed group, with no adverse effects on water quality or gut microbiota. FCWP demonstrates potential as a cost-effective and sustainable alternative to conventional feed additives in aquaculture, enhancing fish growth and health while addressing environmental concerns by converting agricultural waste into valuable resources.
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