Comparison of dietary protein and energy utilization in three Asian catfishes (Pangasius bocourti, P. hypophthalmus and P. djambal)

Dietary protein and energy utilization were compared in three Pangasiid species of high economical interest for fish farming in South‐East Asia. Feeding experiments were performed during 4 weeks on Pangasius bocourti, P. djambal and P. hypophthalmus fingerlings, 6.68, 7.69 and 6.41 g mean mass, respectively. A high‐protein diet containing mostly fishmeal was designed to provide proteins without energy limitation. Growth response, variation in body composition and nutrient utilization were compared for fish receiving variable amounts of diet corresponding to increasing protein supply, 0, 5, 15, 25, 35 and 45 g kg^?1 day^?1. The highest specific growth rate was observed for P. bocourti (6.0% day^?1), followed by P. djambal (5.6) and P. hypothalamus (4.1). Pangasius djambal exhibited the highest protein deposition rate, whereas P. bocourti was characterized by a high fat deposition rate even with a low feeding rate. Lower performance was obtained with P. hypophthalmus.