Utilization of Locally Available Resources for the Development of Low Cost Aquafeeds

Dipangka Saikia

Abstract:

Aquaculture contributes significantly to global food production and livelihood generation particularly in countries where fish is a major source of animal protein. However, feed cost accounts for the highest operational expenditure in aquaculture and dependency on scarce and expensive conventional ingredients like fishmeal and soybean meal affects economic viability. The identification and utilization of locally available low-cost feed resources provide opportunities to minimize production costs and ensure sustainability. Different categories of locally sourced materials including cereal by products oilseed cakes aquatic plants insects market wastes and agro industrial residues possess considerable nutritional value for aquafeed development. Techniques such as drying grinding heat treatment pelleting and fermentation improve nutrient availability and digestibility of unconventional ingredients. The integration of these resources strengthens local feed production resource recycling and employment generation while reducing ecological pressure on marine ecosystems. Continuous evaluation of nutrient composition feed formulation and processing methods strengthens the feasibility of low-cost feed adoption by farmers.