The Hematological Responses to Soya, Crayfish, Insects and Fish Meal Diets in Albino Rats

ABSTRACT This study investigates the impact of different feed types on the hematological parameters of albino rats, focusing on diets based on soya bean, groundnut, fish, crayfish, and edible insects. The analysis revealed significant variations in key hematological indices, such as white blood cell (WBC) count, lymphocytes (LYMP#), monocytes (MID), granulocytes (GRAN), red blood cell (RBC) count, hemoglobin (HGB) levels, hematocrit (HCT), mean corpuscular volume (MCV), mean corpuscular hemoglobin (MCH), mean corpuscular hemoglobin concentration (MCHC), platelet (PLT) count, mean platelet volume (MPV), platelet distribution width (PDW), and plateletcrit (PCT). The SOYA WB group exhibited the highest WBC count (13.9 ×10⁹/L), RBC count (8.93 ×10¹²/L), and HGB levels (14.9 g/dL), indicating enhanced immune function and red blood cell production due to the high protein and omega-3 fatty acids in fish. Conversely, the CRAYFISH 1 group showed the lowest values in these parameters, suggesting nutritional deficiencies or imbalances. The edible insect-based diet (CIRINA FORDA 2 WB) provided balanced hematological outcomes, making it a promising alternative protein source. Comparative analysis with global literature showed consistency in findings, supporting the nutritional efficacy of fish and soya-based diets in enhancing hematological health. Recommendations include incorporating fish-based diets for their immune-boosting properties, supplementing crayfish-based diets to prevent anemia, promoting edible insects as sustainable protein sources, and ensuring balanced diets with a variety of protein sources. Further research is suggested to explore long-term effects on other physiological aspects and across different species. Overall, the study underscores the significant influence of diet on hematological health and provides insights for optimizing nutrition in both animal husbandry and human dietary practices.