Previous studies suggest that egg custard, especially when combined with enriched Artemia nauplii, offers a cost-effective diet for Macrobrachium rosenbergii larviculture. While some research reports improved survival and growth with added ingredients to the basic egg and milk powder recipe, there is no consensus on the most effective formulation. In practice, custard feed recipes vary widely across hatcheries.
This study aimed to improve and standardize home-made custard feeds by testing two approaches: (1) adding a nutritional supplement mix (ADD) to the farmer’s existing recipe, and (2) using a complete instant feed (INST) containing the same additives along with egg and milk powders, requiring only water for preparation. Both formulations included selected marine proteins, essential lipids, vitamins, minerals, and carotenoids.
The trial was conducted in a commercial hatchery in Chachoengsao, Thailand, in 3.5-ton tanks from first stage until late PL. All tanks received equal amounts of Artemia, Moina, and custard feed; the only variable was the method of custard preparation. The study evaluated the effects of the ADD and INST treatments compared to the hatchery’s standard protocol.
The ADD and the INST approach yielded better survival and growth than the standard protocol of the hatchery. The results demonstrate the potential to increase culture efficiency of Macrobrachium through upgraded and standardized custard recipes.