Monday, December 15, 2008

Protein

Protein is the single most important nutrient that the fish needs to grow. On a dry-weight
basis, this makes up the maximum weight in their body structure. Amino acids are
derived from proteins and the fish uses them to make new body tissues as well as
enzymes. Fish are very adept at converting food to body tissues. That is why fish need
lesser amounts of food than do most other animals. Carbohydrates are almost nonexistent
in the food intake for many fish species, since energy is also derived from
proteins.
The quantity of protein required for the fish to be healthy depends on a number of
variables like the species of fish, amount of natural food available, growth rate etc. Fry
and larvae require a more protein rich diet to maximize their adaptability and chances of
survival. As the fish grow larger, their dependency on protein reduces. The temperature
of the water also affects protein requirements.

No comments:

Post a Comment