4. Discussion
This is the first demonstration that FM in diets for C. striataand
C. micropeltesfingerlings diets can be replaced by SBM without affecting
the growth performances, feed utilizations and survival of the two
species. Up to 40% offish meal can be replaced, as long as phytase and
the EAA's lysine, methionine and threonin are added to the diet, or up
to 30% can be replaced if only those EAA's are added. We assume that
the phytase caused phosphates to be released from their phytin binders,
thus making phosphorus more available to thefish. This is a useful step
in the quest to change the habits of the snakehead aquaculture industry
away from reliance on small-sizefish. The fact that there are economic
benefits as well from substituting SBM for FM should aid the industry