Green Boost for Nile Tilapia, Oreochromis niloticus: Unveiling the Multifaceted Effects of Chenopodium album Leaves Powder on Growth, Hematology, Antioxidant Defense, Nonspecific Immunity and Tolerance Against Aeromonas hydrophila

Abstract

This study assessed the impact of dietary Chenopodium album leaf powder on various aspects of Nile tilapia (Oreochromis niloticus), including growth performance, hematological and biochemical profiles, antioxidant status, nonspecific immune response, and resistance to Aeromonas hydrophila infection. A 60-day feeding trial was conducted with 180 Nile tilapia fingerlings, with an initial average weight of 11.79 +/- 0.23 g, fed diets supplemented with increasing levels of C. album at 0, 10, 20, and 30 g/kg. After feeding, the fish underwent an experimental challenge with the pathogen A. hydrophila. Following the challenge, the fish survival was monitored for 14 days. The results demonstrated that as the level of C. album supplementation increased, there were significant (p < 0.05) improvements in growth performance and a reduction in the feed conversion ratio (FCR). The hematological and biochemical profiles showed significant (p < 0.05) enhancements in the groups that received C. album-supplemented diets. Additionally, the antioxidant status in the fish serum significantly (p < 0.05) improved, as evidenced by increased activities of superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase (CAT), and reduced glutathione. The nonspecific immune response, including lysozyme activity, phagocytic activity, and fish survival, also exhibited significant (p < 0.05) enhancements, particularly in the groups receiving 20-30 g/kg of C. album. Furthermore, there was a significant decrease in serum glucose and cortisol levels in the groups fed with 20-30 g/kg of C. album. In conclusion, C. album supplementation at 20-30 g/kg improved growth, immune response, and disease resistance in Nile tilapia. This diet also reduced stress markers, enhancing overall health.