Effect of dietary cinnamon supplementation on the growth in length, haematology, serum biochemistry, intestinal microbiota and enzymes and histomorphological changes of the intestine, liver and the kidney of Heteroclarias

Abstract
In a 56-day feeding trial, the impact of dietary cinnamon supplementation on juvenile Heteroclarias (Clarias gariepinus ♀ × Heterobranchus bidorsalis ♂) was examined. Five experimental diets with varying levels of cinnamon powder (ranging from 0% to 2.0%) were formulated. The study found that cinnamon supplementation positively influenced the fish's growth, haematology, serum biochemistry, intestinal microbiota, and enzyme activities. The group fed with 1.5% cinnamon (DT4) showed the highest growth performance, haematological indices, antioxidant, and hindgut enzyme activities. Additionally, the cinnamon-fed groups exhibited a significant reduction in total cholesterol levels, except for the 0.5% cinnamon-fed group (DT2). Blood glucose, blood urea nitrogen, and creatinine levels also decreased significantly in the cinnamon-fed groups compared to the control. Cinnamon supplementation increased bacterial counts, but fungi counts showed diverse effects, with the most favourable diversity indices observed in the 1.5% cinnamon group (DT4). Amylase, cellulase, and trypsin activity in the cinnamon-fed group were significantly higher than in the control group. Notably, all cinnamon-fed groups' intestine, liver, and kidney microstructures remained well-preserved, without any signs of injury. This study demonstrates that cinnamon has the potential to enhance the growth and overall well-being of African catfish hybrids. The optimal outcomes were observed when cinnamon was supplemented at a level of 1.5%, which can have significant implications for improving aquaculture practices and fish health
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