Lipid profile and metabolic parameters of tilapia in the finishing phase in earth ponds or using biofloc technology

Tilapia is a species with great growth potential. Its production comes from a semi-intensive system, such as earthen ponds (EP). Recently, biofloc technology (BFT) appears as an option to intensify fish production. The objective of this work was to compare the organosomatic indices, biochemical parameters, and chemical composition of tilapia reared in EP and BFT. Fish were grown for 150 days, with an initial weight of ≅ 2 g and a final weight of ≅ 780 g. Thereafter, tissues and organs were collected to determine organosomatic indices and analyze biochemical parameters, fatty acid, and proximate composition. The carcass yield was higher for tilapia reared in EP than BFT. The production system did not affect the fish fillet yield. The other organosomatic parameters were higher for tilapia reared in BFT. Tilapia reared in EP showed higher content of crude protein and lipids in the fillet. In both production systems, there was no difference in the body lipid profile. Fish in BFT showed a higher concentration of glucose and ammonia in the muscle and amino acids in the liver. Fish reared in EP showed a higher concentration of lactate in the liver compared to those in BFT. In conclusion, the production system alters the metabolism of fish. The biofloc has a considerable amount of fatty acids, which can be considered in the formulation of diets for tilapia in this system.(AU)

Dietary supplementation with soybean oil has not favored the tilapia growth in BFT tanks submitted to feeding restriction

The present work aimed at assessing the possibility of compensatingthe notorious deficiencies of bioflocs in lipids by supplementing the tilapia commercial diet with soybean oil. In the positive control, there was no feeding restriction nor dietary supplementation with soybean oil. In the experimental treatments, the commercial diet was restricted by 25% over the positive control level. In the negative control tanks, there was feeding restriction and the artificial diet had no oil supplementation. In the experimental tanks, soybean oil was mixed dailywith the commercial diet at the levels of 0.6%, 1.2 and 2.4%. Additionally, there were fed-restricted tanks that received a daily supplementation of 1.2% soybean oil mixed withdry molasses, and not withthe commercial diet. In general, only the restriction of the commercial diet affected the water quality. The supplementation of the artificial diet with soybean oil up to 2.4% has not improved the proximate composition of bioflocs, nor thefish growth performance. It wasconcluded that the strategy of supplementing the Nile tilapia juveniles' commercial diet with increasing levels of soybean meal, in BFT tanks submitted to 25%-feeding restriction, was notcapable of avoidingthe fish growth performancedeterioration.(AU)

Dietary net energy levels for growing barrows from 30 to 70 kg / Níveis de energia líquida para suínos machos castrados dos 30 aos 70 kg

This study evaluated the effect of dietary net energy (NE) levels on growth performance and carcass characteristics of barrows from 30 to 70 kg of body weight (BW). Sixty barrows with initial body weight (IBW) of 31.94 ± 3.54 kg and final body weight (FBW) of 71.98 ± 5.99 kg were allotted to one of five dietary NE levels (2.40, 2.45, 2.50, 2.55, and 2.60 Mcal kg-¹), using a completely randomized block design with six replicates and two barrows per replicate. The experimental period was divided into phase I: 30 to 50 kg and phase II: 50 to 70 kg. The variables analyzed were average daily feed intake (ADFI), net energy intake (NEI), digestible lysine intake (LysI), average daily gain (ADG), feed conversion (FC), FBW, digestible lysine conversion:gain (LysI:G), Cost:Gain (C:G), loin eye area (LEA), muscle depth (MD), first backfat layer (BF1), second backfat layer (BF2), total backfat (BFt), lean meat percentage, and carcass bonus index (BI). In phase I, there was a linear increase (P < 0.05) in FBW, ADG, NEI, and LysI with increasing NE levels in the diet. In phase II, increasing dietary NE levels also increased (P < 0.05) FBW, ADG, NEI, LysI, and FC linearly. Overall, there was a linear increase (P < 0.05) in ADG, NEI, LysI, and FC with increasing NE levels in the diet. The other performance variables were not affected (P > 0.05) by the NE levels. There was an increase (P < 0.05) in BF2 with increasing NE levels, but the other carcass characteristics were not altered (P > 0.05). We recommended 2.60 Mcal of NE kg-¹ in the diet for growing barrows from 30 to 70 kg.

Realizou-se este estudo com o objetivo de avaliar níveis de energia líquida (EL), mantendo a relação caloria: nutriente, no desempenho e características de carcaça de suínos dos 30 aos 70 kg. Foram utilizados 60 suínos machos castrados, com pesos iniciais de 31,94 ± 3,54 kg e finais de 71,98 ± 5,99 kg. Os animais foram distribuídos em delineamento experimental de blocos casualizados, em cinco níveis de EL (2,40; 2,45; 2,50; 2,55; 2,60 Mcal de EL kg-¹ de dieta), com seis repetições e dois animais por unidade experimental. O período experimental foi dividido em fase I: 30 aos 50 kg e fase II: 50 aos 70 kg. As variáveis analisadas foram os consumos de ração diária (CRD), energia líquida (CEL) e lisina digestível (CLdig), ganho de peso diário (GPD), conversão alimentar (CA), peso final (PF), conversão de lisina digestível: ganho (CLdig:G), custo: ganho (C:G), área de olho de lombo (AOL), profundidade de músculo (PM), espessura de toucinho da primeira camada (ET1), espessura de toucinho da segunda camada (ET2), espessura de toucinho total (ETt), percentual de carne magra (CM) e o índice de bonificação de carcaça (IB). Dos 30 aos 50 kg, verificou-se aumento linear (P < 0,05) do PF, GPD e dos CEL e CLdig com o aumento dos níveis de EL na dieta. Dos 50 aos 70 kg, o aumento dos níveis de EL na dieta promoveu melhora linear (P < 0,05) do PF, GPD, CEL, CLdig e da CA dos suínos. No período total, verificou-se aumento linear (P < 0,05) do GPD, CEL, CLdig e melhora linear (P < 0,05) da CA de acordo com o aumento do nível de EL na dieta. As demais variáveis de desempenho não foram afetadas (P > 0,05) pelos níveis de EL. Verificou-se aumento (P < 0,05) da ET2 de acordo com o aumento do nível de EL, porém sem alterar (P > 0,05) as demais características de carcaça. Recomenda-se o nível 2,60 Mcal de EL kg-¹ de dieta para suínos machos castrados dos 30 aos 70 kg.

Suplementação da dieta de juvenis de tilápia criados em tanques bft (bioflocos) com dl-metionina / Dietary supplementation of tilapia juveniles reared in bft (bioflocs) tanks with dl-methionine

O presente estudo teve por objetivo determinar os efeitos da suplementação da ração balanceada de juvenis de tilápia do Nilo (peso médio inicial = 2,76 ± 0,06 g), submetidos à restrição na oferta de alimento artificial em tanques BFT de cultivo (18 juvenis/tanque 100 L), com DL-metionina, sobre a qualidade da água, composição dos bioflocos e desempenho zootécnico. Os tratamentos experimentais foram constituídos por dois grupos controle (1 - sem restrição alimentar, sem suplementação com metionina; 2 - com restrição alimentar de 25%, sem suplementação com metionina) e quatro tratamentos experimentais (3 - restrição alimentar de 25%, suplementação da ração com 0,5% de DL-metionina, misturada à ração; 4 - restrição alimentar de 25%, suplementação da ração com 1,0% de DL-metionina, misturada à ração; 5 - restrição alimentar de 25%, suplementação da ração com 2,0% de DL-metionina, misturada à ração; 6 - restrição alimentar de 25%, suplementação do melaço em 1,0% de DL-metionina, misturada ao melaço). A suplementação da ração balanceada com DL-metionina não afetou a qualidade da água de cultivo de juvenis de tilápia do Nilo, em tanques BFT, nem a composição centesimal do bioflocos. Após 8 semanas, o ganho em peso corporal dos peixes mantidos nos tanques com restrição alimentar e suplementação da ração com 1% ou 2% de DL-metionina não diferiu (P>0,05) do observado nos tanques sem restrição alimentar. Concluiu-se que é possível restringir as taxas de arraçoamento de juvenis de tilápia do Nilo, mantidos em tanques BFT de cultivo, em 25%, sem prejuízo zootécnico, desde que se faça a suplementação da dieta com, pelo menos, 1% de DL-metionina.

The present study aimed at determining the effects of dietary DL-methionine supplementation on the water quality, bioflocs composition and Nile tilapia juvenile’s (initial body weight = 2.76 ± 0.06 g) growth performance in BFT rearing tanks (18 fish/100-L tank). Fish were or not subjected to artificial feed restriction. The experimental treatments consisted of two control groups: 1 - no feed restriction, no methionine supplementation; 2 - feed restriction at 25%, no methionine supplementation. There were also four treated groups: 1 - feed restriction at 25%, dietary DL-methionine supplementation at 0.5%; 2 - feed restriction at 25%, dietary DL-methionine supplementation at 1.0%; 3 - feed restriction at 25%, dietary DL-methionine supplementation at 2.0%; 4 - feed restriction at 25%, DL-methionine supplementation of molasses at 1.0. Supplementation of the commercial diet with DL-methionine has not affected either the water quality of the BFT Nile tilapia rearing tanks or the proximate composition of the bioflocs. After 8 weeks, weight gain of fish reared in tanks with feed restriction and dietary DL-methionine supplementation at 1% or 2% has not differed (P>0.05) from the tanks without feed restriction. In conclusion, it is possible to restrict the daily feed allowances of Nile tilapia juveniles reared in BFT tanks at 25%, with no growth performance impairment, if a minimal dietary DL-methionine supplementation of 1.0% is given.

Dietary supplementation of tilapia juveniles reared in bft (bioflocs) tanks with dl-methionine / Suplementação da dieta de juvenis de tilápia criados em tanques bft (bioflocos) com dl-metionina

The present study aimed at determining the effects of dietary DL-methionine supplementation on the water quality, bioflocs composition and Nile tilapia juvenile's (initial body weight = 2.76 ± 0.06 g) growth performance in BFT rearing tanks (18 fish/100-L tank). Fish were or not subjected to artificial feed restriction. The experimental treatments consisted of two control groups: 1 - no feed restriction, no methionine supplementation; 2 - feed restriction at 25%, no methionine supplementation. There were also four treated groups: 1 - feed restriction at 25%, dietary DL-methionine supplementation at 0.5%; 2 - feed restriction at 25%, dietary DL-methionine supplementation at 1.0%; 3 - feed restriction at 25%, dietary DL-methionine supplementation at 2.0%; 4 - feed restriction at 25%, DL-methionine supplementation of molasses at 1.0. Supplementation of the commercial diet with DL-methionine has not affected either the water quality of the BFT Nile tilapia rearing tanks or the proximate composition of the bioflocs. After 8 weeks, weight gain of fish reared in tanks with feed restriction and dietary DL-methionine supplementation at 1% or 2% has not differed (P>0.05) from the tanks without feed restriction. In conclusion, it is possible to restrict the daily feed allowances of Nile tilapia juveniles reared in BFT tanks at 25%, with no growth performance impairment, if a minimal dietary DL-methionine supplementation of 1.0% is given.

O presente estudo teve por objetivo determinar os efeitos da suplementação da ração balanceada de juvenis de tilápia do Nilo (peso médio inicial = 2,76 ± 0,06 g), submetidos à restrição na oferta de alimento artificial em tanques BFT de cultivo (18 juvenis/tanque 100 L), com DL-metionina, sobre a qualidade da água, composição dos bioflocos e desempenho zootécnico. Os tratamentos experimentais foram constituídos por dois grupos controle (1 - sem restrição alimentar, sem suplementação com metionina; 2 - com restrição alimentar de 25%, sem suplementação com metionina) e quatro tratamentos experimentais (3 - restrição alimentar de 25%, suplementação da ração com 0,5% de DL-metionina, misturada à ração; 4 - restrição alimentar de 25%, suplementação da ração com 1,0% de DL-metionina, misturada à ração; 5 - restrição alimentar de 25%, suplementação da ração com 2,0% de DL-metionina, misturada à ração; 6 - restrição alimentar de 25%, suplementação do melaço em 1,0% de DL-metionina, misturada ao melaço). A suplementação da ração balanceada com DL-metionina não afetou a qualidade da água de cultivo de juvenis de tilápia do Nilo, em tanques BFT, nem a composição centesimal do bioflocos. Após 8 semanas, o ganho em peso corporal dos peixes mantidos nos tanques com restrição alimentar e suplementação da ração com 1% ou 2% de DL-metionina não diferiu (P>0,05) do observado nos tanques sem restrição alimentar. Concluiu-se que é possível restringir as taxas de arraçoamento de juvenis de tilápia do Nilo, mantidos em tanques BFT de cultivo, em 25%, sem prejuízo zootécnico, desde que se faça a suplementação da dieta com, pelo menos, 1% de DL-metionina.

Fostering bacterial growth in BFT aquaculture tanks by early Nile tilapia stocking

The current study aimed at fostering bacterial growth in BFT aquaculture tanks by early Nile tilapia stocking. Control tanks had no tilapia but received daily applications of dry molasses (NT+) or had tilapia but no C:N ratio adjustment (T-). Experimental tanks had tilapia and received daily application of molasses to adjust the C:N ratio of water to 15:1 (T+). The development of bioflocs in NT+ was insignificant as demonstrated by low levels of settleable solids (SS) and total suspended solids (TSS). Total ammonia nitrogen (TAN) was significantly higher in NT+ than in T+. In the C:N-ratio adjusted tanks, the presence of fish shortened the control of TAN in several days. As nitrite declined in T+, it increased in NT+. The final concentrations of TSS in T+, T- and NT+ were 236 ± 29 mg L-1, 100 ± 32 mg L-1, and 40 ± 22 mg L-1, respectively (p < 0.05). It can be concluded that stable nitrifying and heterotrophic bacterial communities could be attained in BFT aquaculture tanks, before the end of the 4th week of culture, if the bacterial growth is fostered by early Nile tilapia stocking.(AU)

Fostering bacterial growth in BFT aquaculture tanks by early Nile tilapia stocking

The current study aimed at fostering bacterial growth in BFT aquaculture tanks by early Nile tilapia stocking. Control tanks had no tilapia but received daily applications of dry molasses (NT+) or had tilapia but no C:N ratio adjustment (T-). Experimental tanks had tilapia and received daily application of molasses to adjust the C:N ratio of water to 15:1 (T+). The development of bioflocs in NT+ was insignificant as demonstrated by low levels of settleable solids (SS) and total suspended solids (TSS). Total ammonia nitrogen (TAN) was significantly higher in NT+ than in T+. In the C:N-ratio adjusted tanks, the presence of fish shortened the control of TAN in several days. As nitrite declined in T+, it increased in NT+. The final concentrations of TSS in T+, T- and NT+ were 236 ± 29 mg L-1, 100 ± 32 mg L-1, and 40 ± 22 mg L-1, respectively (p < 0.05). It can be concluded that stable nitrifying and heterotrophic bacterial communities could be attained in BFT aquaculture tanks, before the end of the 4th week of culture, if the bacterial growth is fostered by early Nile tilapia stocking.

Protein requirement for initial rearing phase of pacific white shrimp in biofloc system / Exigência proteica para a fase inicial do camarão-branco-do-pácífico em sistema de bioflocos

This study evaluated the protein requirement of Litopenaeus vannamei post-larvae during the initial rearing phase in a biofloc system. Five different diets were evaluated with increasing concentrations of crude protein: 31.28, 36.29, 41.57, 46.34, and 51.74 g 100 g-¹ CP. Post-larvae (0.16 ± 0.01 g) were stocked at a density of 450 PL m-³ in 400 L tanks. Water quality parameters were maintained within the limits recommended for shrimp farming. After 38 days, a regression analysis revealed that levels of CP content (65.29–72.83%), EE (10.45–11.65%) and body N (10.45–11.64%) increased with increasing protein levels in the diet. A similar trend was observed in the biofloc sludge with respect to CP and N. Survival exceeded 80%, and the shrimp with diets containing 31.28 to 46.34 g 100 g-¹ CP presented an increase in final weight (1.52–2.61 g), productivity (0.69–1.10 kg m-³), weight gain (1.38–2.44 g), and feeding efficiency (77.28–101.68%), whereas these indices decreased to 51.74 g 100 g-¹ CP. Crude protein content from 44.26 to 47.12 g 100 g-¹ provided the best growth performance during the initial rearing phase of Pacific white shrimp L. vannamei in a biofloc system.

Esse estudo avaliou a exigência proteica do Litopenaeus vannamei na fase inicial de cultivo em sistema de bioflocos. Cinco dietas com quantidades crescentes de proteína bruta (31,28; 36,29; 41,57; 46,34 e 51,74 g 100 g-¹ PB) foram avaliadas. As pós-larvas (0,16 ± 0,01 g) foram estocadas na densidade de 450 PL m-³ em tanques de 400 L. A qualidade de água manteve-se dentro dos limites adequados para o cultivo. Após 38 dias, uma análise de regressão revelou que teores de PB (65,29–72,83%), EE (10,45–11,65%) e N corporal (10,45–11,64%) aumentaram com os níveis crescente de proteína na dieta. A mesma análise foi realizada para o lodo do bioflocos, que apresentou aumento crescente de PB e N. A sobrevivência foi superior a 80% e os camarões alimentados com dietas contendo 31,28 à 46,34g 100 g-¹ PB obtiveram aumento no peso final (1,52–2,61 g), produtividade (0,69–1,10 kg m-³), ganho em peso (1,38–2,44 g) e eficiência alimentar (77,28–101,68%), enquanto esses índices decresceram no tratamento 51,74 g 100 g-¹ PB. O conteúdo de proteína bruta entre 44,26 à 47,12 g 100 g-¹ PB proporcionou o melhor desempenho de crescimento durante a fase inicial do cultivo do camarão-branco-do-pacífico L. vannamei em bioflocos.

Protein requirement for initial rearing phase of pacific white shrimp in biofloc system / Exigência proteica para a fase inicial do camarão-branco-do-pácífico em sistema de bioflocos

This study evaluated the protein requirement of Litopenaeus vannamei post-larvae during the initial rearing phase in a biofloc system. Five different diets were evaluated with increasing concentrations of crude protein: 31.28, 36.29, 41.57, 46.34, and 51.74 g 100 g-¹ CP. Post-larvae (0.16 ± 0.01 g) were stocked at a density of 450 PL m-³ in 400 L tanks. Water quality parameters were maintained within the limits recommended for shrimp farming. After 38 days, a regression analysis revealed that levels of CP content (65.29–72.83%), EE (10.45–11.65%) and body N (10.45–11.64%) increased with increasing protein levels in the diet. A similar trend was observed in the biofloc sludge with respect to CP and N. Survival exceeded 80%, and the shrimp with diets containing 31.28 to 46.34 g 100 g-¹ CP presented an increase in final weight (1.52–2.61 g), productivity (0.69–1.10 kg m-³), weight gain (1.38–2.44 g), and feeding efficiency (77.28–101.68%), whereas these indices decreased to 51.74 g 100 g-¹ CP. Crude protein content from 44.26 to 47.12 g 100 g-¹ provided the best growth performance during the initial rearing phase of Pacific white shrimp L. vannamei in a biofloc system.(AU)

Esse estudo avaliou a exigência proteica do Litopenaeus vannamei na fase inicial de cultivo em sistema de bioflocos. Cinco dietas com quantidades crescentes de proteína bruta (31,28; 36,29; 41,57; 46,34 e 51,74 g 100 g-¹ PB) foram avaliadas. As pós-larvas (0,16 ± 0,01 g) foram estocadas na densidade de 450 PL m-³ em tanques de 400 L. A qualidade de água manteve-se dentro dos limites adequados para o cultivo. Após 38 dias, uma análise de regressão revelou que teores de PB (65,29–72,83%), EE (10,45–11,65%) e N corporal (10,45–11,64%) aumentaram com os níveis crescente de proteína na dieta. A mesma análise foi realizada para o lodo do bioflocos, que apresentou aumento crescente de PB e N. A sobrevivência foi superior a 80% e os camarões alimentados com dietas contendo 31,28 à 46,34g 100 g-¹ PB obtiveram aumento no peso final (1,52–2,61 g), produtividade (0,69–1,10 kg m-³), ganho em peso (1,38–2,44 g) e eficiência alimentar (77,28–101,68%), enquanto esses índices decresceram no tratamento 51,74 g 100 g-¹ PB. O conteúdo de proteína bruta entre 44,26 à 47,12 g 100 g-¹ PB proporcionou o melhor desempenho de crescimento durante a fase inicial do cultivo do camarão-branco-do-pacífico L. vannamei em bioflocos.(AU)

Growth and nitrogen uptake by Arthrospira platensiscultured in aquaculture wastewater from Nile tilapia reared in biofloc system

This study aimed to evaluate the growth of Arthrospira (Spirulina)platensiscultivated in Zarrouk culture medium and effluent from Nile tilapia (Oreochromis niloticus) reared in biofloc system. Four treatments were used: Control (100% Zarrouk), E50 (50% Zarrouk + 50% Tilapia effluent), E75 (25% Zarrouk + 75% Tilapia effluent), and E100 (100% Tilapia effluent), and the experiment lasted 10 days. Growth parameters such as maximum cell density (MCD), doubling time (DT), and growth rate (K) were daily evaluated, as well aspH and water temperature. In addition, the concentrations of total ammonia nitrogen (TAN), nitrite-N (NO2-N), and nitrate-N (NO3-N) were analyzed in order to compare nitrogen absorption. Among treatments, E50 and E75 obtained higher maximum cell densities and presented an exponential growth rate similar to the control treatment. Regarding the concentrations of nitrogen compounds, a significant reduction was observed in all treatments, with an NO3-Nuptake of 99%, followed by 80% of TAN and 90% of NO2-N. Thus, giving the results obtained, besides being able to grow in wastewater, A. platensis can also be used in bioremediation processes, confirming the potential of this species.

Growth and nitrogen uptake by Arthrospira platensiscultured in aquaculture wastewater from Nile tilapia reared in biofloc system

This study aimed to evaluate the growth of Arthrospira (Spirulina)platensiscultivated in Zarrouk culture medium and effluent from Nile tilapia (Oreochromis niloticus) reared in biofloc system. Four treatments were used: Control (100% Zarrouk), E50 (50% Zarrouk + 50% Tilapia effluent), E75 (25% Zarrouk + 75% Tilapia effluent), and E100 (100% Tilapia effluent), and the experiment lasted 10 days. Growth parameters such as maximum cell density (MCD), doubling time (DT), and growth rate (K) were daily evaluated, as well aspH and water temperature. In addition, the concentrations of total ammonia nitrogen (TAN), nitrite-N (NO2-N), and nitrate-N (NO3-N) were analyzed in order to compare nitrogen absorption. Among treatments, E50 and E75 obtained higher maximum cell densities and presented an exponential growth rate similar to the control treatment. Regarding the concentrations of nitrogen compounds, a significant reduction was observed in all treatments, with an NO3-Nuptake of 99%, followed by 80% of TAN and 90% of NO2-N. Thus, giving the results obtained, besides being able to grow in wastewater, A. platensis can also be used in bioremediation processes, confirming the potential of this species.(AU)

Performance of pacific white shrimp fed probiotics Lactobacillus plantarum and Bacillus spp. in a biofloc system / Desempenho do camarão branco pacífico alimentado com probiótico Lactobacillus plantarum e Bacillus spp. em sistema bioflocos

The present study evaluated the use of the indigenous probiotic Lactobacillus plantarum and commercial probiotic containing Bacillus spp. in the culture of Litopenaeus vannamei in a biofloc system. Shrimp were fed four diets: L. plantarum, Bacillus spp., L. plantarum + Bacillus spp. and feed with no additives. Growth performance, water quality variables, microbiological counting of water and digestive tract of shrimp were determined. The control group and L. plantarum treatment showed better growth performance. The highest feed conversion ratio (FCR) and the lowest survival were obtained in the L. plantarum + Bacillus spp. treatment, which had significantly higher nitrite values. Vibrio spp. counts in the water were lower in the L. plantarum and L. plantarum + Bacillus spp. treatments and were lower in the intestinal tract in the L. plantarum treatment. Lactic acid bacteria (LAB) was higher in the L. plantarum treatment in the water and digestive tract. The count of total heterotrophic bacteria (THB) deferred only among Bacillus spp. and L. plantarum + Bacillus spp. treatment, being higher in the latter group. In Bacillus spp. treatment, no presence of LAB was detected in the water or intestinal tract. We conclude that the use of L. plantarum combined with Bacillus spp. negatively affected survival, FCR and water quality, but that the use of L. plantarum alone reduced the presence of Vibrio spp., even though it did not change the growth performance of L. vannamei.

O presente estudo avaliou o uso do probiótico endógeno Lactobacillus plantarum e do probiótico comercial contendo Bacillus spp. no cultivo de Litopenaeus vannamei em sistema de bioflocos. Camarões foram alimentados com quatro dietas: L. plantarum, Bacillus spp., L. plantarum + Bacillus spp. e ração sem aditivos. Foram avaliados o crescimento, a qualidade da água e contagem microbiológica na água e intestino dos camarões. O controle e o tratamento com L. plantarum apresentaram melhor desempenho de crescimento. O maior fator de conversão alimentar (FCA) e a menor sobrevivência foram obtidas no tratamento L. plantarum + Bacillus spp., apresentando valores de nitrito significativamente elevados. As contagens de Vibrio spp na água foram menores nos tratamentos L. plantarum e L. plantarum + Bacillus spp. e igualmente foram menores no intestino no tratamento com L. plantarum. As contagens de bactérias ácido lácticas (BAL) foram maiores no tratamento L. plantarum na água e no trato intestinal. A contagem de bactérias heterotróficas totais (BHT) diferiu apenas entre os tratamentos Bacillus spp. e L. plantarum + Bacillus spp., sendo maior no último grupo. No tratamento Bacillus spp. não foi detectada presença de BAL na água nem no trato intestinal. Concluímos que o uso de L. plantarum combinado com Bacillus spp. afetou negativamente a sobrevivência, o FCA e a qualidade da água, contudo o uso de L. plantarum isoladamente reduziu a presença de Vibrio spp., embora não tenha alterado o desempenho de crescimento de L. vannamei.

Performance of pacific white shrimp fed probiotics Lactobacillus plantarum and Bacillus spp. in a biofloc system / Desempenho do camarão branco pacífico alimentado com probiótico Lactobacillus plantarum e Bacillus spp. em sistema bioflocos

The present study evaluated the use of the indigenous probiotic Lactobacillus plantarum and commercial probiotic containing Bacillus spp. in the culture of Litopenaeus vannamei in a biofloc system. Shrimp were fed four diets: L. plantarum, Bacillus spp., L. plantarum + Bacillus spp. and feed with no additives. Growth performance, water quality variables, microbiological counting of water and digestive tract of shrimp were determined. The control group and L. plantarum treatment showed better growth performance. The highest feed conversion ratio (FCR) and the lowest survival were obtained in the L. plantarum + Bacillus spp. treatment, which had significantly higher nitrite values. Vibrio spp. counts in the water were lower in the L. plantarum and L. plantarum + Bacillus spp. treatments and were lower in the intestinal tract in the L. plantarum treatment. Lactic acid bacteria (LAB) was higher in the L. plantarum treatment in the water and digestive tract. The count of total heterotrophic bacteria (THB) deferred only among Bacillus spp. and L. plantarum + Bacillus spp. treatment, being higher in the latter group. In Bacillus spp. treatment, no presence of LAB was detected in the water or intestinal tract. We conclude that the use of L. plantarum combined with Bacillus spp. negatively affected survival, FCR and water quality, but that the use of L. plantarum alone reduced the presence of Vibrio spp., even though it did not change the growth performance of L. vannamei.(AU)

O presente estudo avaliou o uso do probiótico endógeno Lactobacillus plantarum e do probiótico comercial contendo Bacillus spp. no cultivo de Litopenaeus vannamei em sistema de bioflocos. Camarões foram alimentados com quatro dietas: L. plantarum, Bacillus spp., L. plantarum + Bacillus spp. e ração sem aditivos. Foram avaliados o crescimento, a qualidade da água e contagem microbiológica na água e intestino dos camarões. O controle e o tratamento com L. plantarum apresentaram melhor desempenho de crescimento. O maior fator de conversão alimentar (FCA) e a menor sobrevivência foram obtidas no tratamento L. plantarum + Bacillus spp., apresentando valores de nitrito significativamente elevados. As contagens de Vibrio spp na água foram menores nos tratamentos L. plantarum e L. plantarum + Bacillus spp. e igualmente foram menores no intestino no tratamento com L. plantarum. As contagens de bactérias ácido lácticas (BAL) foram maiores no tratamento L. plantarum na água e no trato intestinal. A contagem de bactérias heterotróficas totais (BHT) diferiu apenas entre os tratamentos Bacillus spp. e L. plantarum + Bacillus spp., sendo maior no último grupo. No tratamento Bacillus spp. não foi detectada presença de BAL na água nem no trato intestinal. Concluímos que o uso de L. plantarum combinado com Bacillus spp. afetou negativamente a sobrevivência, o FCA e a qualidade da água, contudo o uso de L. plantarum isoladamente reduziu a presença de Vibrio spp., embora não tenha alterado o desempenho de crescimento de L. vannamei.(AU)

First report: Amazon River Prawn reared in biofloc technology / Primeiro relato: Camarão Amazônico criado com tecnologia de bioflocos

The objective of this work was to evaluate the use of biofloc technology to reared Amazon River prawn (Macrobrachium amazonicum). One hundred Amazon River prawn juveniles were divided into two experimental units (250 L), 50 animals per each. Prawns were fed two times per day, with 3% of the prawn biomass.  Dissolved oxygen and temperature were performed twice a day. Total suspended solids, pH, alkalinity, ammonia nitrogen, nitrite and nitrate were monitored twice a week. Prawns showed 77.67%, survival, 2.98 feed conversion, weekly weight gain of 0.29 g day-1, and yield of 822.0 g m-3 after six weeks of rearing. Dissolved oxygen, temperature and pH were suitable for the species, however, for some weeks, ammonia nitrogen and nitrite were higher than the limits recommended for prawn. In conclusion it is possible to use BFT to maintain and rearing Amazon River Prawn (M. amazonicum), however to improve the performance it is necessary to define nutritional requirements, as well improve the management techniques for this species in BFT.

O objetivo deste trabalho foi avaliar o uso da tecnologia de bioflocos para criar camarão do rio Amazonas (Macrobrachium amazonicum). Cem camarões amazônicos foram divididos em duas unidades experimentais (250 L), com 50 animais por cada. Os camarões foram alimentados duas vezes por dia, com 3% da biomassa dos camarões. Oxigênio dissolvido e temperatura foram mensurados duas vezes ao dia. Sólidos suspensos totais, pH, alcalinidade, nitrogênio amoniacal, nitrito e nitrato foram monitorados duas vezes por semana. Os camarões apresentaram 77,67%, de sobrevivência, 2,98 de conversão alimentar médio, ganho em peso semanal de 0,29 g dia-1, e produtividade de 822,0 g m-3, após seis semanas de criação. O oxigênio dissolvido, a temperatura e o pH foram adequados à espécie, enquanto, por algumas semanas, nitrogênio amoniacal e nitrito foram superiores aos limites recomendados para o camarão. Em conclusão, é possível utilizar o BFT para manter e criar o camarão amazônico (M. amazonicum), no entanto, para melhorar o desempenho é necessário definir requisitos nutricionais, bem como melhorar as técnicas de manejo para esta espécie em BFT.

First report: Amazon River Prawn reared in biofloc technology / Primeiro relato: Camarão Amazônico criado com tecnologia de bioflocos

The objective of this work was to evaluate the use of biofloc technology to reared Amazon River prawn (Macrobrachium amazonicum). One hundred Amazon River prawn juveniles were divided into two experimental units (250 L), 50 animals per each. Prawns were fed two times per day, with 3% of the prawn biomass.  Dissolved oxygen and temperature were performed twice a day. Total suspended solids, pH, alkalinity, ammonia nitrogen, nitrite and nitrate were monitored twice a week. Prawns showed 77.67%, survival, 2.98 feed conversion, weekly weight gain of 0.29 g day-1, and yield of 822.0 g m-3 after six weeks of rearing. Dissolved oxygen, temperature and pH were suitable for the species, however, for some weeks, ammonia nitrogen and nitrite were higher than the limits recommended for prawn. In conclusion it is possible to use BFT to maintain and rearing Amazon River Prawn (M. amazonicum), however to improve the performance it is necessary to define nutritional requirements, as well improve the management techniques for this species in BFT.(AU)

O objetivo deste trabalho foi avaliar o uso da tecnologia de bioflocos para criar camarão do rio Amazonas (Macrobrachium amazonicum). Cem camarões amazônicos foram divididos em duas unidades experimentais (250 L), com 50 animais por cada. Os camarões foram alimentados duas vezes por dia, com 3% da biomassa dos camarões. Oxigênio dissolvido e temperatura foram mensurados duas vezes ao dia. Sólidos suspensos totais, pH, alcalinidade, nitrogênio amoniacal, nitrito e nitrato foram monitorados duas vezes por semana. Os camarões apresentaram 77,67%, de sobrevivência, 2,98 de conversão alimentar médio, ganho em peso semanal de 0,29 g dia-1, e produtividade de 822,0 g m-3, após seis semanas de criação. O oxigênio dissolvido, a temperatura e o pH foram adequados à espécie, enquanto, por algumas semanas, nitrogênio amoniacal e nitrito foram superiores aos limites recomendados para o camarão. Em conclusão, é possível utilizar o BFT para manter e criar o camarão amazônico (M. amazonicum), no entanto, para melhorar o desempenho é necessário definir requisitos nutricionais, bem como melhorar as técnicas de manejo para esta espécie em BFT.(AU)

Cultivation of the seaweed Ulva spp. witheffluent from a shrimp biofloc rearing system: different species and stocking density / Cultivo da macroalga Ulva spp. com efluente de criação de camarão marinho em bioflocos: diferentes espécies e densidade de estocagem

This work evaluated the use of effluent from a marine shrimp biofloc rearing system to cultivate two species of the green seaweed of the genus Ulva. First, the growth of two Ulva species, U. ohnoi and U. fasciata, was evaluated. Second, the best-performing species was cultivated under two different stocking densities (2 g L-1 and 4 g L-1) to evaluate both growth and nutrient uptake rates, considering total ammonia nitrogen, nitrate, and orthophosphate. In both cases, environmental variables were monitored, and the cultivation medium, consisting of 25% biofloc water and 75% seawater, was exchanged weekly. Ulva ohnoi grew significantly better, considering all variables evaluated (p <0.05). The smaller stocking density produced a higher specific growth rate (p <0.05). Yield, however, was unaffected (p ≥0.05). No significant differences in the nutrient uptake rates were observed (p ≥0.05). Overall, this work highlights the importance of species selection for seaweed destined for aquaculture. Additionally, it also optimizes the cultivation of seaweeds, specifically U. ohnoi, using effluent from biofloc systems.

Este trabalho avaliou o uso de água de um cultivo de camarão marinho em bioflocos como fertilizante no cultivo de Ulva. Inicialmente, o crescimento de duas espécies de Ulva, U. ohnoie U. fasciata, foram avaliados. Subsequentemente, a alga com melhor desempenho foi cultivada sob duas densidades de estocagem (2 g L-1 e 4 g L-1), e o crescimento e a absorção de nutrientes (nitrogênio amoniacal total, nitrato e ortofosfato) foram avaliados. Em ambos os casos, variáveis ambientais foram monitoradas e o biofloco na concentração de 25% foi trocado semanalmente. Ulva ohnoi apresentou um crescimento significativamente melhor para todas as variáveis consideradas (p <0,05). A menor densidade de estocagem produziu uma taxa de crescimento específico significativamente maior (p <0,05), embora a produtividade não tenha sido afetada (p ≥0,05). Diferenças significativas na absorção de nutrientes também não foram observadas (p ≥0,05). No geral, este trabalho destaca a importância da seleção de espécies de macroalgas destinadas à aquicultura. Além disso, otimiza a viabilidade de se cultivar macroalgas utilizando água de sistemas de bioflocos.

Cultivation of the seaweed Ulva spp. witheffluent from a shrimp biofloc rearing system: different species and stocking density / Cultivo da macroalga Ulva spp. com efluente de criação de camarão marinho em bioflocos: diferentes espécies e densidade de estocagem

This work evaluated the use of effluent from a marine shrimp biofloc rearing system to cultivate two species of the green seaweed of the genus Ulva. First, the growth of two Ulva species, U. ohnoi and U. fasciata, was evaluated. Second, the best-performing species was cultivated under two different stocking densities (2 g L-1 and 4 g L-1) to evaluate both growth and nutrient uptake rates, considering total ammonia nitrogen, nitrate, and orthophosphate. In both cases, environmental variables were monitored, and the cultivation medium, consisting of 25% biofloc water and 75% seawater, was exchanged weekly. Ulva ohnoi grew significantly better, considering all variables evaluated (p <0.05). The smaller stocking density produced a higher specific growth rate (p <0.05). Yield, however, was unaffected (p ≥0.05). No significant differences in the nutrient uptake rates were observed (p ≥0.05). Overall, this work highlights the importance of species selection for seaweed destined for aquaculture. Additionally, it also optimizes the cultivation of seaweeds, specifically U. ohnoi, using effluent from biofloc systems.(AU)

Este trabalho avaliou o uso de água de um cultivo de camarão marinho em bioflocos como fertilizante no cultivo de Ulva. Inicialmente, o crescimento de duas espécies de Ulva, U. ohnoie U. fasciata, foram avaliados. Subsequentemente, a alga com melhor desempenho foi cultivada sob duas densidades de estocagem (2 g L-1 e 4 g L-1), e o crescimento e a absorção de nutrientes (nitrogênio amoniacal total, nitrato e ortofosfato) foram avaliados. Em ambos os casos, variáveis ambientais foram monitoradas e o biofloco na concentração de 25% foi trocado semanalmente. Ulva ohnoi apresentou um crescimento significativamente melhor para todas as variáveis consideradas (p <0,05). A menor densidade de estocagem produziu uma taxa de crescimento específico significativamente maior (p <0,05), embora a produtividade não tenha sido afetada (p ≥0,05). Diferenças significativas na absorção de nutrientes também não foram observadas (p ≥0,05). No geral, este trabalho destaca a importância da seleção de espécies de macroalgas destinadas à aquicultura. Além disso, otimiza a viabilidade de se cultivar macroalgas utilizando água de sistemas de bioflocos.(AU)

Use of crosses for sustainability in livestock farming in the Brazilian Meio-Norte region

This study evaluated different crosses for sustainable beef production in the Meio-Norte, Brazil. Thirty-four cattle [seven Curraleiro Pé-duro (CPD), six Nellore (NEL), seven ½ ½ , seven » » ½ , and seven » » ½ ] were evaluated on natural pastures in the states of Piauí and Maranhão. The animals were weighed at birth (BW); weaning (WW); 12 (W12), 18 (W18), and 24 months (W24); and slaughter (SW). The morphometric measurements of rump height (RH), withers height (WH), body length (BW), and heart girth (HG) were assessed. Hot carcass weight (HCW), cold carcass weight (CCW), loin-eye area (LEA), backfat thickness (BFT), carcass dressing percentage (DP), water-holding capacity (WHC), cooking loss (CL), shear force (SF), pH, meat color (L*M, a*M, and b*M), and fat color (L*F, a*F, and b*F) were also analyzed. The three-cross animals (F2A and F2S) showed heavier weights from weaning to slaughter as well as higher HCW and CCW. The three-cross cattle produced less methane per kg of meat. The lack of differences between the NEL, F1, F2A, and F2S animals indicates that crossbreeding did not increase their size, which could be detrimental to reproductive efficiency. Loin-eye area, BFT, and DP differed between the genetic groups, with the highest LEA obtained by F2A. Backfat thickness and DP were low in all animals, suggesting a need for increased carcass fatness. Water-holding capacity, CL, SF, pH, a*F, b*F, L*M, and a*M did not differ; therefore, crossbreeding did not affect qualitative or visual aspects of meat and fat. The use of crosses in meat production systems in the Meio-Norte region of Brazil is a viable option to improve sustainability. In this respect, three-cross animals have the best performance.(AU)

Nile tilapia nursery in a biofloc system: evaluation of different stocking densities / Berçário de tilápias-do-nilo em sistema de bioflocos: avaliação de diferentes densidades de estocagem

This trial aimed to evaluate the growth performance and hematological parameters of Nile tilapia (Oreochromis niloticus) GIFT strain during nursery using different stock densities in a biofloc system. The experiment was conducted in circular tanks (400 L) with sexually reversed fish, weighing 6.74 ± 0.37 g, over a period of 35 days. Five treatments with three replicates each were used in a completely randomized design. The treatments were as follows: T1 (200 fishes m-3); T2 (300 fishes m-3); T3 (400 fishes m-3); T4 (500 fishes m-3), and T5 (600 fishes m-3). The fishes were fed four times a day, following a feed table for this species, with adjustments according to fish biomass. The water quality parameters total ammoniacal nitrogen, and unionized ammonia showed a significant difference (p<0.05) between the treatments with lower (T1) and higher stocking densities (T4, T5). Alkalinity was significantly higher in treatments with higher densities (T4 and T5). For hematological parameters, the number of thrombocytes was higher in T5. Hemoglobin concentration was significantly lower in T5 than in T3. The best productive indexes were found in T4, presenting final biomass of 9915.16 ± 14.80 g m-3, apparent feed conversion rate of 1.11 ± 0.02, mean survival of 95.75 ± 0.75%, and daily mean weight gain of 0.43 ± 0.07 g. Overall, the Nile tilapia nursery in a biofloc system showed higher individual growth at densities up to 300 fishes m-3 and increased stocking density up to 500 fishes m-3.

O objetivo foi avaliar o desempenho zootécnico e os parâmetros hematológicos de tilápias-do-nilo (Oreochromis niloticus) linhagem GIFT, utilizando diferentes densidades de estocagem em sistema de criação em bioflocos. O experimento foi conduzido em tanques circulares (400 L), com peixes invertidos sexualmente, pesando 6,74 ± 0,37 g, em um período de 35 dias. Foi utilizado um delineamento inteiramente casualisado com cinco tratamentos e três repetições cada. Os tratamentos foram o T1 (200 peixes m-3); T2 (300 peixes m-3); T3 (400 peixes m-3); T4 (500 peixes m-3) e T5 (600 peixes m-3). Os peixes foram arraçoados quatro vezes ao dia, seguindo a tabela de alimentação específica para a espécie, com ajustes pelas biometrias semanais. Os parâmetros de qualidade de água nitrogênio amoniacal total e amônia não-ionizada apresentaram diferença significativa (p<0,05) entre os tratamentos com menor (T1) e maiores densidades de estocagem (T4, T5). A alcalinidade foi significativamente maior nos tratamentos com maiores densidades (T4 e T5). Dos parâmetros hematológicos, a quantidade de trombócitos foi mais elevada no T5 em relação aos demais tratamentos. A concentração de hemoglobina foi significativamente menor no T5 em relação ao T3. Os melhores índices produtivos foram encontrados no T4, apresentando biomassa final de 9915,16 ± 14,80 g m-3, taxa de conversão alimentar aparente de 1,11 ± 0,02, sobrevivência média de 95,75 ± 0,75% e ganho médio diário de 0,43 ± 0,07 g. O berçário de tilápia-do-nilo em sistema de bioflocos apresentou maior crescimento individual em densidade de até 300 peixes m-3 e aumento de produtividade em densidade de estocagem de até 500 peixes m-3.

Tilapia cultivated in a low-salinity biofloc system supplemented with Chlorella vulgaris and differents molasses application rates / Cultivo de tilápia em biofloco em baixa salinidade suplementado com Chlorella vulgaris e diferentes taxas de aplicação de melaço

The aim of this study was to evaluate the effect of supplementation with Chlorella vulgaris and molasses application rates on water quality, zootechnical performance, proximate composition and health status of Nile tilapia (Oreochromis niloticus) fingerlings cultivated in low-salinity (10 g L-1) biofloc systems. Four treatments were tested in a factorial design (supplemented with microalgae and molasses application rates): BFT-C30 (Biofloc supplemented with C. vulgaris and molasses application rates of 30% of the total daily feed); BFT-30 (Biofloc with molasses application rates of 30% of the total daily feed); BFT-C50 (Biofloc supplemented with C. vulgaris and molasses application rates of 50% of the total daily feed) and BFT-50 (Biofloc with molasses application rates of 50% of the total daily feed), for 70 days. Fingerlings of O. niloticus (initial mean weight of 3.15 ± 0.5 g) were stocked at a density of 680 fish m-3 in experimental units (50L), where 50% of this volume was biofloc previously matured. Throughout the experiment, they were supplemented with C. vulgaris every five days at the concentration of 5x104 cells mL-1. A significant interaction between supplementation with C. vulgaris and molasses application rates for final weight and length, survival, feed conversion ratio, specific growth rate, water consumption, protein efficiency ratio, sedimentation time, planktonic community and hematological indices were observed. The results indicated that the high molasses application rates (50%) in the biofloc system affects the zootechnical performance, water consumption, sedimentation time and the hematological indices of the Nile Tilapia fingerlings, hampering their development. Therefore, molasses application rates of 30% of the total daily feed for the tilapia fingerlings culture in low-salinity biofloc system is recommended.

O objetivo deste trabalho foi avaliar o efeito da suplementação com Chlorella vulgaris e taxas de aplicação de melaço na qualidade da água, desempenho zootécnico, composição centesimal e saúde de alevinos de tilápia do Nilo (Oreochromis niloticus) cultivados em sistemas de biofloco com baixa salinidade (10 g L-1). Quatro tratamentos foram testados em um delineamento fatorial (suplementado com microalgas e taxas de aplicação de melaço): BFT-C30 (Biofloco suplementado com C. vulgaris e aplicação de melaço de 30% da alimentação diária); BFT-30 (Biofloco com aplicação de melaço de 30% da alimentação diária); BFT-C50 (Biofloco suplementado com C. vulgaris e aplicação de melaço de 50% da alimentação diária) e BFT-50 (Biofloco com aplicação de melaço de 50% da alimentação diária), por 70 dias. Alevinos de O. niloticus (peso médio inicial de 3,15 ± 0,5 g) foram estocados na densidade de 680 peixes m-3 nas unidades experimentais (50L), onde 50% deste volume foi de biofloco previamente maturado. Durante todo o experimento, as inoculações com C. vulgaris foram a cada cinco dias na concentração de 5x104 células mL-1. Foi observada interação significativa entre a suplementação com C. vulgaris e as taxas de aplicação de melaço para peso final, comprimento, sobrevivência, fator de conversão alimentar, taxa de crescimento específico, consumo de água, taxa de eficiência proteica, tempo de sedimentação, comunidade planctônica e índices hematológicos. Os resultados indicaram que a alta taxa de aplicação de melaço (50%) no sistema de biofloco afeta o desempenho zootécnico, consumo de água, tempo de sedimentação e os índices hematológicos dos alevinos de tilápia do Nilo, prejudicando seu desenvolvimento. É recomendada a taxa de aplicação de melaço de 30% da alimentação diária para o cultivo de alevinos de tilápias em sistema de biofloco com baixa salinidade.