Closing date: 02 Apr 2024

Background

Nile tilapia (Oreochromis niloticus) is a commonly farmed freshwater fish species known for its rapid growth and nutritional value. Black soldier fly larvae (Hermetia illucens) have emerged as a promising alternative protein source for aquafeeds due to their high protein content and ability to convert organic waste into valuable biomass. However, the nutritional composition of black soldier fly larvae can be further enhanced to meet the specific dietary requirements of Nile tilapia, particularly in terms of essential fatty acids. Omega-3 fatty acids specifically Linoleic Acid, EPA and DHA are essential nutrients that play a crucial role in the growth, development, and health of fish. They are known to enhance growth performance, improve feed conversion efficiency, and enhance disease resistance in fish. However, the influence of omega-3 fatty acid supplementation in black soldier fly larvae diets on the growth performance and nutrient utilization of Nile tilapia has not been extensively studied. This research project aims to evaluate the effects of omega-3 fatty acid supplementation on Nile tilapia growth and nutrient utilization with black soldier fly larvae diets. This project will assess the growth performance (weight gain, specific growth rate, and feed conversion ratio) of Nile tilapia fed diets enriched with varying levels of omega-3 fatty acids. The project will also evaluate the nutrient utilization efficiency (protein efficiency ratio, protein retention efficiency, and lipid retention efficiency) of Nile tilapia fed diets enriched with varying levels of omega-3 fatty acids. The study will determine the fatty acid profile of Nile tilapia fillets derived from diets enriched with varying levels of omega-3 fatty acids. The outcomes of this research will enrich our comprehension of the nutritional needs of Nile tilapia and the viability of omega-3 fatty acid supplementation in augmenting growth performance and nutrient utilization. The results will also provide substantial insights into the most efficient levels of fat-soluble vitamins enrichment to improve the nutritional value and consumer acceptance of Nile tilapia fillets.

The scholarship is fully funded for 1 year, during which the student will conduct fieldwork in Kenya. 

 

Eligibility criteria

• Candidates should hold a Bachelor’s degree in a relevant field, such as Aquaculture, Fisheries Science, Animal Science, Biology, Environmental Science, or a related discipline, and scored at least a second-class (upper division).
• Experience with experimental design, data collection, and statistical analysis.
• Familiarity with research methodologies specific to aquaculture or animal nutrition would be advantageous.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills and ability to articulate research findings, prepare detailed reports.
• Candidates who are staff members of a public university, or considered for university teaching or research staff recruitment, are encouraged to apply.
• Qualified female candidates and candidates from less privileged regions or groups as well as candidates with disabilities are especially encouraged to apply.
• Already registered for MSc in a recognized University.
• Completed coursework/year one of study, awaiting research.