Carbohydrates (starches and sugars) are the most economical
and inexpensive sources of energy for fish diets.
Although not essential, carbohydrates are included in aquaculture
diets to reduce feed costs and for their binding
activity during feed manufacturing. Dietary starches are
useful in the extrusion manufacture of floating feeds.
Cooking starch during the extrusion process makes it more
biologically available to fish.