Optimization of phosphorus content in high plant protein practical diets for Senegalese sole (Solea senegalensis, Kaup 1858) juveniles: influence on growth performance and composition of whole body and vertebrae

Practical diets containing PP sources were elaborated. Increasing levels of di‐calcium phosphate were added to diets leading to five different dietary available P levels: 2.5, 3.2, 6.0, 6.5 and 8.0 g kg−1 dry diet. The dietary treatments were tested in 13.5 g Senegalese sole juveniles throughout an 82‐day experimental period. Dietary P content had no effect on the productive parameters, while nutrient intake was also similar among dietary treatments, except P intake. Dry matter ADC ranged between 54.9% and 64.0%, and the highest P ADCs value (47.2 ± 0.7%) was achieved in fish fed AP6.0. Dietary phosphorus level significantly influenced body lipid and P compositions. Regression analysis performed on whole‐body P and ash contents fitted to quadratic models. Vertebral bone P content was low but increased significantly with increasing dietary P levels. Bone density and deformities occurrence were, however, similar between experimental conditions. An altered status of bone formation–resorption processes in soles fed the lowest P content diet might be inferred from ALP and TRAP activities. In conclusion, overall results state a high tolerance of Senegalese sole to low P content diets and support the utilization of practical diets with high plant protein content.