The impact of mixed feed of seaweed Gracilaria sp. and transfer factor formula on the immune response of Nile tilapia (Oreochromis niloticus)

Many efforts are made to improve human health, among which is to pay attention to the content of natural food intake, in order to reduce the intake of chemicals that can damage health. Therefore, it is necessary to provide data about the fish species having a good immune system against bacterial or viral infections, that are either found in their ecosystem or being cultivated. Gracilaria sp. is a type of seaweed that contains antioxidant substances, vitamins and proteins. On the other hand, the egg yolk extract and cow milk in nano size powder particles can stimulate the immune system. These nanosized substances are ingredients of the Transfer Factor Formula (TFF). The mixing of Gracilaria sp. and TFF in Oreochromis niloticus feed is a breakthrough to determine the immune system in O. niloticus. With this mixed feed, it is hoped that the content of the mixed feed has a good effect on the immune system, fish improving the resistance to diseases, in cultured fish. The results showed that Gracilaria sp. and the supplement of TFF affected the immune system in the growth of O. niloticus, which was indicated by the total feed consumed, Feed Conversion Ratio (FCR), Relative Growth Rate (RGR), and Feed Utilization Efficiency (FUE) values for each treatment. The optimal concentrations combination was observed in the feed mixed with seaweed and TFF at a ratio of 958.8:40:1.2 g, generating a feed consumption ratio of 192.45±25.92 g, a FCR of 11.32±1.61%, a RGR of 2.29±0.04%, and a FUE of 8.97±1.39%.