Catfish at Cold Temperatures: The Propylene Glycol Advantage

A recent study explored how propylene glycol (PG) affects the growth and health of young striped catfish, also known as Pangasianodon hypophthalmus, when they are raised in chilly waters. The experiment lasted for 60 days and took place in a controlled aquaculture system. This system had a steady water flow and was kept at a cool 18 degrees Celsius. Fish were fed six different diets. Each diet had the same amount of protein and energy but varied in PG levels. The diets ranged from none to 12. 5 milliliters of PG per kilogram of feed. The goal was to see how different amounts of PG in the diet would affect the fish's eating habits and overall growth. The results were clear. Fish that ate PG-enriched diets consumed more food. This was especially true for the group that got 10 milliliters of PG per kilogram of feed. This group also showed the best growth and feed conversion rates. However, the differences between the groups that got 2. 5, 5. 0, and 7. 5 milliliters of PG were not significant. The study also looked at how PG affected the fish's digestive enzymes. The highest levels of protease and amylase were found in the fish that ate 10. 0 and 12. 5 milliliters of PG per kilogram of feed. Lipase activity increased with more PG. The group that ate 10. 0 milliliters of PG per kilogram of feed had the highest metabolic and oxidative stress enzyme activities. Additionally, the fish's serum total protein and albumin levels increased with PG supplementation, peaking at 10. 0 milliliters per kilogram. The findings suggest that adding 7. 5 to 10. 0 milliliters of PG per kilogram of feed can boost feed intake, growth, feed conversion, and metabolic activities in young striped catfish reared in cold waters. This is important because it shows that PG can help fish grow better in less-than-ideal conditions. However, it's crucial to consider the broader implications. While PG seems beneficial, more research is needed to understand its long-term effects on fish health and the environment. It's also important to note that the study was conducted in a controlled setting. Real-world conditions might yield different results. Therefore, while these findings are promising, they should be approached with a critical eye. The aquaculture industry should weigh the benefits against potential risks before widely adopting PG supplementation.