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Utilization of Talisay (Terminalia catappa L.) Leaves as a Sustainable Natural Shelter for Macrobrachium rosenbergii Post-larval Culture
Summary
This aquaculture study compared natural Terminalia catappa (tropical almond) leaves versus conventional plastic net shelters for farming freshwater prawns, finding that prawn larvae grew significantly larger and heavier with the leaf shelters while survival rates were equivalent. Beyond the performance benefit, the natural shelters eliminate a source of microplastic contamination from plastic nets degrading in water. The findings suggest a practical, low-cost way to reduce plastic use in small-scale aquaculture while improving production outcomes.
The rapid expansion of crustacean aquaculture contributes to global food security and economic development; however, sustainability concerns persist, particularly regarding plastic pollution and the potential microplastic contamination associated with conventional plastic shelters. This study evaluated the use of Terminalia catappa leaves as a natural alternative to plastic shelters in the post-larval culture of Macrobrachium rosenbergii. Result show that post-larvae reared with T. catappa leaf shelter attained significantly greater final length (P<0.004) and final weight (P<0.001) compared to those provided with plastic net shelters, while survival rates did not differ statistically between treatments (P>0.05). Water quality parameters remained within acceptable limits throughout the culture period, with no adverse effects attributed to the use of leaf substrates. These findings demonstrate that T. catappa leaf shelters are a viable substitute for conventional plastic shelters, providing comparable survival and enhanced growth performance, while promoting more sustainable aquaculture practices by reducing reliance on plastic materials.