| Abstract: | Discus (Symphysodon spp.), a valuable ornamental species (mean initial weight 4.40–4.65 g) were fed five isoenergetic (gross energy: 200–209 kJ g–1), semipurified diets (casein, gelatine and Danish fish meal as protein sources) twice a day to satiation for 12 weeks. Five levels of protein were evaluated (350, 400, 450, 500 and 550 g kg–1 diet) and each fed to four replicates. Growth rate increased significantly with protein level up to 500 g kg–1 diet and then decreased. Feed conversion rates (FCRs) ranged from 2.2 to 3.8, varying inversely with observed growth rate. A similar trend was also observed in the efficiency of protein utilization (PER). Analysis of dose (protein level)‐response (growth rate) with second order polynomial regression suggested a requirement of 449–501 g kg–1. |
