Phototrophic Bacteria as Fish Feed Supplement

Abstract

Single cell of an indigenous phototrophic bacterium, Rhodovulum sulfidophilum, was incorporated in commercial fish feed for Oreochromis niloticus. The bacterial cell was analyzed for nutritional value and tested for toxicity and acceptability as an aquaculture feed supplement. The results showed higher survival rate and significantly higher growth rate (p<0.001) in O. niloticus fed with the bacteria incorporated fish feed. It is suggested that R. sulfidophilum can be utilized as an aquaculture feed supplement.