Aquatic feeds for farmed fish and shrimp are made from raw
materials similar to those used in the feeding of livestock animals. The
major difference is the need for protein-rich ingredients since the
dietary concentration of crude protein (CP) in aquatic feeds is generally
higher compared to feeds for terrestrial animals. A large number of
protein ingredients can be used to manufacture aquatic feeds, but
historically fish meal has been the protein source of choice. The reason
is due to its nutrient value, especially in regard to the high levels of
digestible CP and the balanced essential amino acid (EAA) profile that
approximate fish and crustacean requirements. However, with the
rapid growth of aquaculture, global fish meal supplies have reached a
plateau. As a consequence, it has becomeless available andmore expensive
to use as a major protein component in aquatic feeds.