Comparative study of the proximate compositions of Tilapia and Catfish from wild and pond-bred sources in Ebonyi State, Nigeria

This study investigates the proximate compositions of two widely consumed fish species, Tilapia (Oreochromis niloticus) and Catfish (Clarias gariepinus), obtained from wild and pond-bred sources across Ebonyi State, Nigeria. Fish is a primary protein source in Nigerian diets and is essential for addressing nutritional needs and food security, particularly in rural and developing areas. Understanding the nutritional differences between wild-caught and farmed fish is crucial, as aquaculture continues to expand to meet increasing demand. This research employed a comparative approach, analyzing samples from rivers, lakes, and commercial fish farms within five Local Government Areas using standardized methods established by the Association of Official Analytical Chemists (AOAC). The study focused on assessing moisture, protein, fat, ash, carbohydrate, and crude fibre content, which are fundamental indicators of fish dietary quality. Results showed that Catfish samples generally had higher moisture content, which is associated with a softer texture and increased perishability, as well as greater protein and fat levels, suggesting a higher caloric and energy value. Conversely, Tilapia exhibited slightly higher ash content, reflecting a richer mineral composition, beneficial for addressing micronutrient deficiencies. Crude fibre was also marginally higher in Tilapia, although the fibre content was generally low in both species, as expected for fish. This research underscores the influence of rearing environments on fish nutrient profiles and highlights the potential health and economic implications of these differences for consumers and aquaculture practitioners. The findings offer insights for optimizing aquaculture practices to enhance fish nutritional quality, address dietary requirements and support food security initiatives. Furthermore, this study provides a basis for developing policies that promote sustainable fish farming and informed consumer choices, contributing to improved public health outcomes and nutritional resilience in Nigeria.