Addition of ascorbil polyphosphate as source of vitamin C in diets of the pintado Pseudoplatystoma coruscans fingerlings (Agassiz, 1829)

Abstract

During three months Ascorbil polyphosphate (AP) was used as source of vitamin C in diets of the pintado, Pseudoplatystoma corsuscans (Siluriformes, Pimelodidae) fingerlings. 500, 1000, 1500, 2000 and 2500 mg of AP/kg diet were added to basic diet (0 mg AP/kg diet). No difference in weight gain, total length, specific growth ratio, feed conversion ratio and hematological analyses were reported. Occurrence of deformities and parasite infestation in fishes fed on diet without vitamin C were worse than those on other diets. No polynomial regression effects were observed in diets above 500 mg/kg, albeit results of food intake showed linear regression (P < 0,01). Thus 500 mg AP/kg diet was sufficient to prevent the occurrence of deformities and parasite infestation. Satisfactory development of the pintado fingerlings was ensued.