Inclusion of natural carotenoids in diets for gilthead sea bream broodstock (Sparus aurata L.) and its effect on spawning

Abstract

It is known that several nutritional factors are associated with reproduction in Teleosts, being the portion size, nutrient levels and type the most important ones. Nowadays the feed pellet industry for aquaculture is in continuous search for alternative sources, based on high quality plants ingredients. The aim of this study was to determine the inclusion effect, of natural carotenoids both animal and plant, in diets for gilthead sea bream broodstock, and its effect on the spawning quality. Thus, four isoproteic diets were formulated, using squid and fish meal, with two lipids levels of (20 and 15%). In addition, two types of natural carotenoids were included: paprika powder and shrimp meal. The denomination and ingredients used in experimental diets is: 20: without carotenoids added; 20 P: with carotenoids, paprika powder (P); 15: commercial diet for broodstock; 15 L: with carotenoids, shrimp meal (L).