Effect of addition of red spinach leaf extract (Amaranthus tricolor L.) in feed against the level of color brightness of sword platy fish (Xiphophorus helleri)

Department of Aquaculture, Faculty of Marine and Fisheries, Syiah Kuala University, Banda Aceh, 23111. Indonesia

^* Corresponding author: adliwaliul@usk.ac.id

Abstract

Color is important factor ornamental fish, especially sword platy fish, because can affect selling value. One factor influences color brightness is carotenoids. Carotenoids cannot synthesized by fish's body so must be supplied through feed provided. Red spinach is a natural ingredient that contains carotenoids. Aim of research was to determine effect of adding red spinach leaf extract to artificial feed to increase color brightness, growth and survival of Xiphophorus helleri. Research method used a completely randomized design with 4 treatments and 4 repetitions. Concentrations of red spinach leaf extract are 0%, 3%, 6% and 9%. Parameters observed were color brightness, absolute weight, absolute length, survival rate and water quality. Results showed that addition of red spinach leaf extract had a significant effect (P<0.05) on brightness of fish color but had no significant effect (P>0.05) on growth, weight, length and survival rate. Highest increase in color brightness and absolute weight growth was obtained in 9% treatment with an average color brightness score of 6.66, an absolute weight of 0.36 g. Highest absolute length growth occurred treatments C (6%) and D (9%) at 0.41 cm and highest survival rate was obtained treatments A, B and C with a survival percentage of 88%.