The effect of incorporating Tulsi (Ocimum sanctum L.) into fish feed on the growth, survival rates, biochemical parameters, and histological study of Labeo rohita F. Hamilton, 1822 (fingerlings)
Shrutika S. Kurhekar and Y. D. Akhare
Department of Zoology, Vidya Bharati Mahavidhyalaya, C.K. Naidu Road, Camp, Amravati, Maharashtra, Pincode - 444602 (India) Email: shrutikurhekar333@gmail.com
ABSTRACT
The present study was conducted to investigate the effect of incorporating Tulsi (Ocimum sanctum) leaf extract into the diet of Labeo rohita fingerlings on growth performance, survival rate, biochemical responses, and histological changes. Fingerlings were fed experimental diets supplemented with graded levels of Tulsi extract like 200 mg, 400 mg and 600 mg for a specified duration of 60 days under laboratory conditions. Growth parameters such as weight gain, specific growth rate, and feed conversion ratio showed a significant improvement in treated groups compared to the control. The supplemented diets also enhanced survival percentage, indicating improved disease resistance and stress tolerance. Biochemical analysis revealed positive modulation in serum protein, carbohydrates, lipid and vitamins suggesting improved metabolic and physiological status. Furthermore, histological examination of gill, liver and intestine tissues exhibited healthier cellular architecture with reduced signs of degeneration in treated fish.