Abstract

The complex feeding behaviour of Panulirus ornatus remains a major limitation to the development of its aquaculture industry. Feed texture is central to feeding behaviour and is heavily influenced by the choice of binder. This study investigated binder-induced feed textures that enhance feeding behaviour and the apparent feed intake of P. ornatus. Fifty P. ornatus were subjected to five dietary treatments over a 14-day period. Diet 1 (control) was formulated with wheat gluten as the binder, while diets 2 to 5 combined wheat gluten with xanthan gum, guar gum, alginate, and transglutaminase, respectively. Feed texture was quantified using a texture analyzer, while feeding behaviour was assessed using EthoVision XT software. Guar gum exhibited the most durable and firmest pellets. However, wheat gluten alone optimised feeding behaviour, as indicated by the longest cumulative time spent in the feeding zone (87.46 ± 3.63%) and lowest frequency of entries and exits (21.67 ± 2.91 times). Moreover, wheat gluten yielded the highest apparent feed intake (0.98 ± 0.05% BW/day). Pellets produced with other additional binders resulted in decreased feeding behaviour metrics and apparent feed intake. In summary, wheat gluten as a sole binder produced a suitable texture, optimising feeding behaviour and apparent feed intake.

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