Dietary protein/lipid level and protein source effects on growth,tissue composition and lipid metabolism of blackspot seabream (Pagellus bogaraveo)

A study was carried out to determine the effects of fish meal (FM) replacement by plant protein (PP) on growth, body composition and lipid metabolism of blackspot seabream fed different protein/lipid levels. Four experimental diets were formulated to contain two protein (P) and lipid (L) levels (60P/6L or 50P/10L), varying in their protein source (100% FM or 50% FM: 50% PP). Dietary inclusion of PP did not affect growth of fish fed 60P/6L, although fish fed 50P/10L exhibited lower final body weight and daily growth index. Fish fed 60P/6L presented the highest protein and the lowest lipid content. FM replacement by PP has decreased muscle n‐3 whereas the n‐6 fatty acids increased. Glucose‐6‐phosphate dehydrogenase and fatty acid synthetase (FAS) were depressed in fish fed 50P/10L. FAS was significantly increased with 60P/6L PP which was positively correlated with lipid retention data. Those results suggest the conversion of other nutrient than lipid (protein and/or carbohydrates) into corporal fat. Hepatic lipoprotein lipase activity was lowest in fish fed PP diets. Plasma glucose peaked 1–2 h postfeeding, in all groups and was generally higher with 60P/6L FM. This work shown that besides dietary P/L level, protein source has a strong effect on species lipogenesis and lipid retention. Hence, the 50P/10L FM diet was the most cost‐effective for blackspot seabream juveniles.