ENHANCEMENT OF COLOR OF PLATY FISH (Xipophorus maculates) BY USING CARROT PEELS AS SOURCE OF CAROTENOIDS

Abstract

Color is one of the major factors which determine the price of aquarium fish in the market world over. Ornamental fishes are acceptable to buyers if they have striking and vibrant colors. The pigmentation of fish results from the pigments in the feed. People involved in the trade of ornamental fish are constantly exploring methods of enhancing skin coloration for which the use of dietary supplements with carotenoids is recommended.  The aim of this research was to develop a feed using a cheap source of carotenoid for enhancing the skin color of Platy fish which could reduce the feed cost of aquarium fish hobbyists. In this study, carrot peel was used as a carotenoid source very successfully and the fish skin color was enhanced.