Protein and energy needs for maintenance and growth of Nile tilapia (Oreochromis niloticus)

A trial was undertaken with juvenile Nile tilapia fed graded levels of dietary protein (0–35% DP) over 7 weeks (28°C). Measurements of nitrogen and energy utilization were made using data on ADC, comparative carcass analyses, nitrogen excretion and oxygen uptake. Data indicate that the daily protein intake for maximum N gain was c. 12 g/kg/d and the maintenance protein requirements were about of 2g/kg/d. The optimal DP/DE ratio was found to be 18mg/kJ. Differences were observed in the data on endogenous nitrogen and energy utilization depending on the dietary treatments as well as on the criteria used.