Authors : O.A. Akinrotimi , U.U. Gabriel , N.K. Owhonda , D.N. Onunkwo , J.Y. Opara , P.E. Anyanwu and P.T. Cliffe
Abstract: Over the last decade, aquaculture in Nigeria has witnessed a lot of growth. It is unequivocally agreed that aquaculture production will continue to increase. As aquaculture production becomes more intensive, fish feed will be a significant factor in increasing the productivity and profitability of aquaculture. Feed management accounts for at least 60% of the cost of production. Given that feed is the biggest source of nutrient loading in aquaculture production, clear understanding of its impact on the environment is highly essential for sustainable development. This will help to reduce negative impacts and improve predictability of environmental effects. Present knowledge and understanding of the environmental impacts of aqua feed among fish culturists and fish nutritionists is very low and needs further refinement, as much emphasis before now has been on the formulation of fish feed, that will enhance fast growth within a limited period of time without taking cognizance of its impact on the environment. Potential pollutants from aqua feed are Phosphorous and Nitrogenenous substances as well as organic matter and these are release to the environment majorly through excretion of faecal loss misuse of medicated feed and uneaten feed. This study however, reviewed the importance of formulating an environmental friendly fish feed for sustainable aquaculture. Inter relationship among various factors namely, fish feed production, feeding methods and regimes, influence of feed on water quality and environment are thoroughly discussed. Also, various strategies in dealing with aqua feed induced environmental pollution which include formulation of diets with reduced Food Conversion Ratio (FCR), balanced formulation of diet, utilization of high energy diets, reduction of nitrogen and phosphorus level and control of feeding regimes are critically analyzed.
O.A. Akinrotimi , U.U. Gabriel , N.K. Owhonda , D.N. Onunkwo , J.Y. Opara , P.E. Anyanwu and P.T. Cliffe , 2007. Formulating an Environmental Friendly Fish Feed for Sustainable Aquaculture Development in Nigeria . Agricultural Journal, 2: 606-612.