The results obtained from this study have shown that 30%
inclusions of unrefined forms of copra and palm kernel meals do
not negatively affect the feed intake of O. niloticus. The addition
of 30% soybean meal, however, significantly reduced feed intake.
Similarly, water stabilities and dry matter as well as nutrient retentions
were significantly affected by the inclusions of the oilseed
meals. The inclusion of the soybean meal resulted in pellets with
significantly higher bulk density, sinking rate and water stability
compared to the other experimental diets. Nutrient retention efficiencies were also affected by the inclusion of the oilseed meals. The PKM diet resulted in lower protein and lipid retentions relative to the fishmeal-based control diet. Prior treatments of copra and palm kernel meal may be necessary to reduce their high crude fibre contents which appeared to negatively affect pellet water stability and faecal matter production.