Pages: (1-6 )
Abstract
The proximate composition and fatty acids profile of the African catfish, Clarias gariepinus, from Lekki Lagoon fishing grounds in Lagos, south-western coast Nigeria, were investigated with a view to provide nutritional data for dietary planning. Mean values for the proximate composition (wet basis) were: protein 19.64%, lipid 1.15%, moisture 76.71% and ash 1.23%. There were no seasonal changes (P>0.05) in the mean monthly proximate composition of the fish over two-year period. A total of twenty-seven different fatty acids were obtained in the muscle. The fish belonged to high- protein low- oil category. Palmitic and oleic acids were the main saturated and monounsaturated fatty acids respectively. The principal acids in the polyunsaturated group were linoleic, eicosapentaenoic and docosahexaenoic acids. C. gariepinus thus constitutes a source of high protein and polyunsaturated fatty acids, as well as an ideal dietetic fish food.
Keywords: African catfish, proximate composition, protein, fatty acids, polyunsaturated fatty acids, Lagos Lekki Lagoon,