Organic Aqua-farming R4de Program in Ilocos Sur Study 4 “organic Salt Uno Crossbreed Tilapia (Oreochromis Molobicus) Production Fed With Formulated Azolla Aquafeed”

This study evaluated the performance of Oreochromis molobicus, a salt-tolerant hybrid of O. niloticus and O. mossambicus, when fed with aquafeeds incorporating Azolla meal and rice bran. The feeds were formulated to meet a 30% crude protein requirement using Azolla (17.6% CP) and rice bran (13% CP) as main protein sources. Among the treatments, groups 3 and 4 demonstrated competitive growth and achieved better feed conversion ratios (FCRs ranging from 1.85 to 1.88), highlighting improved feed efficiency. Interestingly, while the control group recorded the highest final body weight and total length, the experimental groups fed Azolla-based diets had higher survival rates (91–93%) compared to the control (77.67%). These results underscore the potential of Azolla as a sustainable, cost-effective protein alternative in aquaculture. Incorporating Azolla in O. molobicus culture could lower production expenses, boost profits, and promote more resilient and eco-friendly fish farming—especially in saline or resource-limited environments.