Marine microalgae as a potential source of minerals in fish diets

Abstract

The incorporation of powdered marine microalgae in fish diets can substitute, at least in part, for the addition of minerals to the diet. In diets for freshwater fishes, the incorporation of 33% of powdered marine microalgae can supply some of the mineral element requirements. The incorporation of microalgal powder in diets for marine fishes appears more effective, since lower percentages are needed to cover the mineral requirements. Most mineral needs of turbot can be covered with low percentages of marine microalgal powder in the diet: 3.8% of Tetraselmis suecica, 5.7% of Isochrysis galbana, 3.57% of Dunaliella tertiolecta and 3.9% of Chlorella stigmatophora. Mn and Co must, however, be added. Thus, incorporation of small amounts of marine microalgae in diets can replace a mineral mixture.