Partial replacement of fish meal with hydrolised feather meal in the diet of giant river prawn (Macrobrachium rosenbergii) during the nursery phase

This study evaluates the effects of hydrolysed feather meal (HFM) inclusion in giant river prawn (Macrobrachium rosenbergii) post larvae diets, assessing growth performance, digestive enzyme activity, antioxidant status, and whole-body composition. Hydrolysed feather meal inclusion up to 6% improved growth performance, feed conversion, and welfare in giant freshwater prawns without compromising digestive enzyme activity or antioxidant status. These findings suggest that HFM is a viable alternative protein source that supports efficient digestion and shrimp health. Additionally, its use promotes circularity also in crustacean aquaculture by valorising poultry by-products, reducing reliance on traditional protein sources, and enhancing the sustainability of prawn production.