Biochemical composition of Predatory carp (Chanodichthys erythropterus) from Lake Dianshan, Shanghai, China

Information related to the chemical composition of fish species is very much necessary to ensure that they meet requirements of man's diet. This study is focused on providing nutrient contents information of the wild east Asian native species Predatory carp (Chanodichthys erythropterus). The specimens were collected from Lake Dianshan, Shanghai-China. The body muscles of randomly selected fish species were dried at 105 °C in an oven and used for biochemical analysis. Protein, carbohydrate, ash, and moisture contents found in the experimental fish and their proportions were 48.7%, 14.1%, 5.1%, and 9.4%, respectively. Methionine is the major essential acid determined whiles Alanine was also the abundant for non-essential amino acids although ten of the most essentials were present. Stearic acid, a saturated fatty acid had the highest proportion while oleic acid was the main monounsaturated fatty acid. Alpha-linolenic acid was the dominant polyunsaturated fatty acid determined. The ratio of n3/n6 fatty acids was 2.82 showing that this species meat is optimal for nutritional purpose. The results of this study showed Chanodichthys erythropterus muscle is a valuable food with high quality protein and well balanced amino acids for promoting good health, prevention and healing of diseases in the human body.