Artificial food effects on growth, survival and gonad development of Indonesian Eel (Anguilla bicolor bicolor McClelland, 1844)

Indonesian eel (Anguilla bicolor bicolor) is one of native Indonesian fish and among very important species in international market for it high protein content of 16.4 and also for vitamin A of 4700 IU. Until recently, this fish production is mainly relying on nature or wild capture. Therefore, it existence is threatened due to massive exploitation which probably lead to extinction. Considering it economic potential, the cultivation of eel is considered as one of priority to be conducted. However, until recently the cultivation method is remaining not well defined, due to lack of knowledge and low number of researches on the said specific area. One important factor that enhances growth speed and gonadal development of Eels is appropriate food with high protein content. This study aims to determine the artificial food suitable for the growth of A. bicolor bicolor, it impact on the eel survival and on gonadal development especially on elver stage of the eel. This research will be conducted using elver stage of A. bicolor bicolor which be treated with three types of artificial food. The food is containing of different protein concentration, which are low, moderate and high respectively. In inaddition, a commercial food with a protein content of 30, also will be used control food. Parameters measured were growth of fish; the length and weight of the Ell, survival rate, and the development of eel gonads which will be observe with histological preparations. The results showed that the four feed treatments did not give a significant effect on the growth, stability and development of eel gonad. All four feeds have the same effect in enhancing the growth, stability and development of the gonads. © 2020 Elsevier B.V., All rights reserved.