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Project partners: AlzChem Group AG, Dr.-Albert-Frank-Str. 32, D-83308 Trostberg, Germany.
Function of the Project Partner: Partner

BOKU Research Units: Institute of Animal Nutrition, Livestock Products, and Nutrition Physiology (TTE)

Abstract: In fish feeding, processed compound feed is used to optimize nutrient and energy availability. Especially the utilization of fish meal and fish oil have to be reduced for a sustainable aquaculture production. The challenge is to use plant-based protein and energy sources in aquaculture, like starch and plant oils as well as expellers from oil seeds as protein source as suitable alternatives. Creatine does not occur in all cells but is limited to high-energy-expenditure cells, particularly muscle cells. Whereas birds being fed with vegetable diets rely on the endogenous synthesis of creatine, which requires amino acids, some of which, for example arginine (Arg), are considered essential for several physiological and metabolic functions, less is known about the creatine metabolism in aquaculture species. In this regard, the objective is to investigate the use of creatine and precursors for the growth of fish, aiming to optimize the nutrient and energy use of compound feeds. In feeding trials, the objective is also to establish feeding conditions to improve zootechnical performance and product quality.

Keywords: Microbiology; Nutritional sciences; Feed analysis; Animal nutrition; Laboratory animal science; Veterinary histology;; salmon; protein supply; feed processing;