Length-Based Growth, Body Indices, Carcass Composition, and Development of Predictive Model for the Growth of Clariobranchus (clarias Gariepinus♀ × Heterobranchus Longifilis♂) Fed Soursop Leaf Meal (annona Muricata) Supplemented Diet.”

This research explored the influence of dietary supplementation with soursop (Annona muricata) leaf powder on the length-based growth, body indices, carcass composition, and nutrient retention of African catfish hybrids (Clariobranchus: ♀Clarias gariepinus × ♂Heterobranchus longifilis). The increasing cost of synthetic feed additives and the global push for sustainable aquaculture solutions necessitate the search for affordable and eco-friendly alternatives. Soursop, a plant known for its diverse pharmacological properties, was evaluated in this context for its growth-promoting potential in aquafeeds.
Five isonitrogenous and isoenergetic diets containing varying levels of soursop leaf powder (0%, 0.5%, 1.0%, 1.5%, and 2.0%) were formulated and fed to juvenile Clariobranchus over an eight-week experimental period. Fish were monitored for growth performance, feed efficiency, morphometric indices, and carcass composition. Data on length–weight relationship (LWR) and condition factors were also analyzed to assess health status and growth patterns.
The findings revealed that fish fed diets with 1.0% inclusion of soursop (DT3) demonstrated significantly higher weight gain, improved feed conversion ratio, and superior lipid retention compared to the control. The LWR analysis indicated isometric to positive allometric growth across treatments, while the condition factor confirmed the physiological well-being of the fish. Carcass evaluation showed that protein and fat deposition were enhanced in the supplemented groups, while ash content decreased, indicating efficient nutrient utilization. However, performance metrics slightly declined at the 2.0% inclusion level, suggesting that excessive supplementation may exert anti-nutritional effects.
These results affirm the potential of Annona muricata leaf powder as a functional feed additive in aquaculture. Its incorporation at moderate levels (1.0–1.5%) improves growth performance, enhances nutrient retention, and supports fish health, making it a cost-effective and sustainable alternative to synthetic additives. This study contributes to the growing body of research on phytogenic feed supplements and supports the integration of natural plant products into commercial fish farming practices for improved food security and economic efficiency in Nigeria and other developing countries.