The effect of parasitism on the protein and fatty acid content of the Nile tilapia, <i>Oreochromis niloticus</i> and African catfish, <i>Clarias gariepinus</i> (Teugals) in River Kaduna, Nigeria

Abstract

The effect of parasitism on the protein and free fatty acid of the Nile tilapia, Oreochromis niloticus and African catfish, Clarias gariepinus from swimming pool end of River Kaduna was investigated. Nematodes were seen to parasitize the two fish samples and this resulted in lower values of free fatty acid and crude protein content in the two fish types. Water quality parameters showed variation but these are regarded as affecting the parasitized and unparasitized fish samples equally. Proper examination of fish obtained from River Kaduna before consumption is recommended.


Key words: Clarias gariepinus, fatty acid, Oreochromis niloticus, parasites, protein, River Kaduna.


Journal of Aquatic Sciences Vol.17(2) 2002: 128-130