Possibility of using basil (Ocimum basilicum) supplementation in Gilthead sea bream (Sparus aurata) diet

This study was carried out on sea bream (Sparus aurata) with initial fish weight of 1.9 ± 0.1 g to evaluate the effect of addition of basil (Ocimum basilicum), in different forms on; growth performance, feed utilization, body composition, biometric indices and some serum constituents. Four experimental diets were formulated; Diet 1: control diet (without basil, CTR); Diet 2: 2% dried basil leaves, (BL), Diet 3: 2% dried basil seeds, (BS) and Diet 4: 2% soaked and dried basil seeds, (BSS). Fish were fed experimental diets twice a day until visual apparent satiation, 7 days a week for 84 days. The results showed an improvement in fish growth and feed utilization indices when fed diets were supplemented either with BS or BSS respectively. Feeding of either BL or BS resulted in an enhancement in protein retention coinciding with depression in lipid content. Digestive enzyme (amylase and lipase) activities and serum total protein were elevated by the administration of basil in all forms to sea bream diet as compared to the control.