Determination of apparent digestibility coefficient in fish by stable carbon isotopes

Abstract

Estimation of the apparent digestibility coefficient ADC(%) of C3 and C4 plants in experimental diets for fingerlings of tambaqui (Colossoma macropomum, Cuvier, 1818) was calculated by applying chromic oxide (Cr2O3) external marker methodology and by a proposed mathematical expression based on the isotopic composition (δ13C). A total of 240 tambaqui fingerlings each weighing ±48.2 g and measuring ±9.8 cm were maintained in eight 500-L aquariums specially designed for faeces collection. The ADC(%) of the C3 and C4 diets did not differ significantly between the two methods, producing results of 75.6%; 76.2% and 74.4%; 72.8%, respectively. The ADC(%) results obtained by isotopic method presented less variation than by chromic oxide. The proposed mathematical expression for calculating the ADC(%) based on δ13C values offers an alternative methodology, which can reduce errors and diminish the effort required to collect biological material. However, it is important to note that this method is limited to analysis of diets or food items with distinct isotopic signals.