The effect of using earthworm meal (Eisenia foetida) as protein supplement for the growth of Xiphophorus hellerii juveniles

Many studies have highlighted the possibility of using an alternative source to substitute fish meal, as the protein obtained from earthworm meal. Its special attributes have been demonstrated by chemical analyzes, animal experiments and digestibility test. The aim of this work was the establishment of the effect of supplementation in different proportions the granulated feed of Xiphophorus hellerii juveniles with meal obtained from earthworm biomass (Eisenia foetida). For this purpose the fry from a X. hellerii female were distributed in three aquariums and were fed differently. The fish from the control group were fed with commercial granulated feed, while for the experimental groups, two mixtures of granulated feed which was supplemented with 10% and 20% earthworm meal were used. To evaluate the impact of the earthworm meal supplementation, the fish were weight after 120 days. Analyze of the obtained results was made by comparison of mean body weight and the biggest values were registered at the group fed with 10% earthworm meal.