Effect of water temperature, feeding frequency, and protein percent in the diet on water quality, growth and behavior of Nile tilapia Oreochromis niloticus (Linnaeus, 1758)

This study evaluated how water temperature (26, 28, and 30 degrees C), number of meals per day (one or two meals), and protein percent in diet (20, 25 and 30%) impact growth performance, biometric indices, and feeding behavior of Nile tilapia, Oreochromis niloticus. Fish were randomly allocated into 18 equal replicate groups. Higher final body weight was observed in fish reared at 30 degrees C and fed one meal per day containing 30% crude protein. Better weight gain, weight gain %, feed conversion ratio, specific growth rate, and condition factor were recorded in fish reared at 26 degrees C and fed one meal per day containing 30% protein. The best length weight relationship was obtained in fish reared at 26 degrees C and fed one meal per day containing 30% crude protein. Shorter feeding duration and duration of appetite inhibition latency were recorded in fish reared at 30 degrees C, fed one meal per day, and given a diet containing 30% protein. The highest proactivity was recorded in fish reared at 30 degrees C, received one meal per day, and with 25% crude protein in their diet. Conclusively, rearing Nile tilapia at 26-30 degrees C with a lower feeding frequency (one meal/day) and a 30% crude protein diet achieved better performance and feeding behavior.