Effect of Spinach Powder Supplementation in Feed on the Growth and Survival of Mud Crabs

Abstract

This study aimed to evaluate the effect of different doses of spinach (Amaranthus spp.) meal in artificial feed on the growth and survival of mud crab (Scylla olivacea). The experiment was conducted at a pond in Bontoa District, Maros, while feed preparation was carried out at the Brackishwater Aquaculture Research Center and Fisheries Extension Center in Maros, South Sulawesi. A Completely Randomized Design (CRD) was used with six treatment levels of spinach meal: 0%, 10%, 12.5%, 15%, 17.5%, and 20%, each with three replications. Observed parameters included molting percentage, absolute growth in body weight and carapace width, survival rate, feed conversion ratio (FCR), and water quality (temperature, pH, dissolved oxygen, ammonia, and nitrite). The results showed that spinach meal significantly affected growth performance and feed efficiency. The 10% dose yielded the highest molting percentage (86.67%), absolute weight gain (45.80 g), specific carapace width growth (1.57 cm), and the lowest FCR (4.47). In contrast, the 20% dose produced the lowest values for all growth parameters. The highest survival rate (86.67%) was observed at 10%–17.5% doses, while the lowest (80.00%) was recorded at 0% and 20%. Water quality remained within tolerable limits for mud crab throughout the study. In conclusion, the inclusion of 10% spinach meal in artificial feed is recommended as the optimal dose to enhance the growth and survival of Scylla olivacea effectively.