Applied Nutrition in Freshwater Prawn,Macrobrachium rosenbergii, Culture

The freshwater prawn, Macrobrachium rosenbergii, commonly called ‘scampi,’ is the most important culturable freshwater species of prawn with a fairly high growth rate, wide range of temperature (15-35°C) and salinity tolerance. The nutrients required by this species for growth and associated physiological functions are similar to those required by other crustaceans. Current data suggest that a digestible protein level of above 30 is required for maximum growth and protein efficiency. Ingredients such as mussel meat meal, squid meal, and shrimp meal serve as potential sources of protein in formulated diets. The complete quantitative requirements for all the essential amino acids for this prawn species have not yet been worked out. With respect to non-protein energy supply in the form of carbohydrate, studies indicated that scampi is capable of utilizing various carbohydrate sources efficiently. Dietary carbohydrate in the form of complex polysaccharides appears to be more effective as an energy source. Like other crustaceans, scampi also has limited ability to synthesize sterol from acetate and mevalonic acid. Quantitative estimates of the essential fatty acid requirements have been made in post-larval scampi. Data on vitamin and mineral requirements are scarce. Recent developments in diet formulation, practical feeding practices and the aquaculture potential in India have been indicated with emphasis on sustainable production.