Effect of three different feeds on the growth and survival of sailfin molly Poecilia latipinna (Lesueur, 1821)

The commercial value of ornamental fish is mainly dependent on fast growth and external body colouration. A study was conducted to evaluate the efficacy of three types of feed (Pellet feed, Groundnut oil cake and Dry Tubifex) in the rearing of Sailfin molly. Survival and growth parameters such as length, weight and specific growth rate (SGR) of the fish were determined to evaluate the performance of the feeds. Results showed that Sailfin molly performed better in terms of survival (100%) and SGR (2.8±0.01%) when fed with Dry Tubifex compared to the other feeds. Thus, Dry Tubifex proved to be the best feed for Sailfin molly for increasing the growth and survival of the fish, and has tremendous significance in the ornamental fish industry.