Email this article (Login required)
Email the author (Login required) Matali (Tradescantia zebrina) addition in diets for juveniles of two-band cichlid (Vieja bifasciata Steindachner, 1864): effects on growth and digestive morphology
Submited: 2025-12-15 22:35:24 | Published: 2026-06-30 22:44:54
DOI: https://doi.org/10.3856/vol54-issue3-fulltext-3591
Abstract
Herbaceous plants have attracted increasing attention in the aquaculture industry for their beneficial effects on the growth, health, and physiology of several fish species. Matali (Tradescantia zebrina) is a medicinal herb widely distributed in southeastern Mexico and recognized for its diverse pharmacological properties. This study aimed to evaluate the effects of T. zebrina on growth performance, cytotoxicity, and digestive morphology in the two-band cichlid (Vieja bifasciata), a native species with aquaculture potential. Cytotoxicity of the aqueous extract of T. zebrina was assessed using Artemia nauplii exposed for 24 h to serial dilutions ranging from 100 to 0.78 mg mL-1. Subsequently, diets supplemented with 0% (T1), 5% (T2), 10% (T3), and 15% (T4) T. zebrina were evaluated for their effects on growth performance and digestive morphology in V. bifasciata over a 45-day feeding trial. The results demonstrated that the aqueous extract of T. zebrina was non-toxic, suggesting that its inclusion in fish diets is safe. The highest weight gain was recorded in T2 (2.28 ± 0.43 g), whereas the greatest total length was observed in T3 (5.07 ± 0.04 cm). Survival was highest in T4 (100%). Based on weight gain, specific growth rate, and feed conversion ratio, T2 was identified as the most effective treatment for promoting growth (P < 0.05). In addition, dietary supplementation with T. zebrina produced modifications in digestive morphology. Overall, the inclusion of 5-10% T. zebrina in the diet can serve as a feed supplement without adversely affecting V. bifasciata growth. Further studies involving gene expression, immunological responses, and enzymatic activity are recommended to validate additional potential benefits of T. zebrina in aquaculture.
