Research Article: Chaya leaf meal as a substitute for soybean meal in climbing perch (Anabas testudineus Bloch, 1792) diet

The sustainability and cost-effectiveness of aquafeeds are crucial research focus in the aquaculture industry. This study investigates Chaya leaf meal (CLM; Cnidoscolus aconitifolius) as an alternative to soybean meal (SBM) in climbing perch (Anabas testudineus) diet. Over a three-month feeding trial, three dietary modifications were tested, incorporating 0% (CLM 0, control group), 20% (CLM 20), and 40% (CLM 40) Chaya leaf meal. The growth performance parameters indicated no significant differences between the dietary groups (p 0.05). However, 20% CLM diet led to significantly improved survival rates (p 0.05). Detailed analysis of organosomatic indices, body composition, fillet proximate composition, hematological, and blood chemical indices demonstrated overall consistency across experimental diets (p 0.05), except for a notable variance in the crude lipid content. Likewise, digestive enzymes activity remained stable across the dietary groups. From an economic standpoint, 20% CLM diet exhibited a competitive profit index compared to the control, significantly outperforming 40% CLM diet (p 0.05). These findings support the viability of 20% CLM as a partial substitute for soybean meal in climbing perch diets, providing environmental and economic advantages. Nevertheless, additional research is essential to determine the optimal CLM inclusion level and understand its long-term impact on fish health and productivity.