A Comparison of Inert Markers Used to Estimate Protein Digestibility in the Leader Prawn <i>Penaeus monodon</i>

Abstract

Abstract.— Acid insoluble ash, chromic oxide and ytterbium acetate were evaluated as digestibility markers in practical diets for leader prawns Penaeus monodon . Apparent protein digestibility coefficients ranged from 79.4% for chromic oxide to 82.6% for ytterbium acetate and were similar regardless of the marker used (P &lt; 0.05). Coefficients of variation of protein digestibility coefficients ranged from 2.1% for ytterbium acetate to 4.9% for acid insoluble ash. Methods for selecting dietary markers for use are discussed.