Biochemical Parameters of Catfish Fed Probiotics Fermented Soybean Meal-Based Diet

This study investigated the effects of the probiotics (Saccharomyces cerevisiae) fermented soybean meal-based diet on key biochemical parameters of African Catfish (Clarias gariepinus), namely: alanine aminotransferase (ALT), aspartate aminotransferase (AST), alkaline phosphatase (ALP), total protein, urea, creatinine and glucose. A six-week feeding trial was conducted using 150 Clarias gariepinus juveniles divided into five treatments (A–E). These treatments were replicated thrice and fed diets containing varying levels of probiotics fermented soybean meal (10%, 20%, 30%, 40%, and control). The soybean meal was fermented using Saccharomyces cerevisiae. The fish were fed twice daily at 5% body weight. Blood samples were collected bi- weekly for biochemical analysis. The results showed significant (p ≤ 0.05) variations in the biochemical parameters across treatment groups. Probiotic supplementation influenced liver enzyme activity, with lower ALT and AST levels in groups fed with the formulated diet, indicating improved hepatic function. Total protein levels were higher, indicating enhanced protein metabolism. Creatinine and urea levels varied, suggesting probiotic induced metabolic adjustments. Glucose regulation was also improved, enhancing its role in stabilising energy metabolism. These findings align with previous studies which opines that probiotic fermented soybean meal helps to boost metabolic efficiency and health status of Catfish. The study concludes that probiotics fermented soybean meal is a promising alternative protein source for improved fish health, thereby reducing dependence on conventional protein sources like fishmeal. Further studies are recommended to assess long-term effects in catfish. This study provides valuable insights into the potential of probiotics fermented soybean meal as a sustainable and functional feed ingredient in aquaculture.