Comparative floatability rate of extruded and on-farm floating feeds

Abstract

The comparative floatability rate of extruded and on-farm feeds was evaluated in order to produce a higher quality nutritious locally made feed that can compete favourably with the imported extruded feeds at low cost. The on-farm floating feeds were formulated, to contain 35 and 42% crude protein. The feeds were then subjected to floatation test. The results of the test revealed no significant (p>0.05) differences in the ability of the formulated diets to float up to 90 minutes. However, significant (p<0.05) differences were observed in their floatation rates as from 120-270 minutes post soaking. Among the feeds, Eco float and Aqualis had similar (p>0.05) mean floatability rate which was found to be better than the rest of the feeds. The on-farm formulated feeds had similar (p>0.05) mean floatation rate compared to Skretting which is an imported extruded feed. Amongst the imported feed, Skretting had the least floatability rate (70%). Based on the findings of this study, it was concluded that the floatability of fish feed is influence by particle size of the ingredients used, inclusion of a floating catalyst such as yeast, oil, binders and other plant materials.