Possible Questions and Answer For Title Defense
Possible Questions and Answer For Title Defense
relevant authors. These answers will help you prepare for your defense.
1. Why did you choose Azolla pinnata and green algae as alternative feed
sources over other possible options?
We selected Azolla pinnata and green algae due to their high protein content
and essential amino acids, which are known to enhance growth in fish like
tilapia. Azolla, in particular, has crude protein content ranging from 13% to
30%, making it a cost-effective and nutrient-rich feed option (Mosha, 2018).
Additionally, green algae contain vital proteins, lipids, and vitamins that
support fish development (Vijayaram et al., 2024). Using these plants also
aligns with our aim to promote sustainable and affordable aquaculture feeds.
Our study uniquely focuses on comparing Azolla and green algae for their
effectiveness as alternative feeds specifically for tilapia growth, examining
their impact on growth rate in terms of weight and length. While previous
studies (e.g., by Ibrahim et al., 2014) have examined Azolla as a substitute
for traditional feeds, our study is among the few to test both Azolla and
green algae for tilapia, aiming to highlight a sustainable feed solution that
reduces reliance on fishmeal and fish oil (Mosha, 2018; Ceron et al., n.d.).
This research promotes the use of renewable, plant-based feed sources that
could reduce overfishing pressures associated with traditional fishmeal
production (RB Vala et al., 2024). By demonstrating the viability of Azolla and
algae, our study supports the development of a more sustainable
aquaculture industry with reduced environmental impacts, aligning with
goals to preserve ecosystems while maintaining productivity (Fantatto et al.,
2024).
5. Why did you choose a post-test-only control group design for this
study?
7. What procedures will you use to measure pellet properties like density,
durability, and expansion?
We will assess pellet density by calculating the mass per unit volume of the
pellets. Durability will be tested by immersing pellets in water for a specified
time and recording the percentage that remains intact, which is essential for
reducing waste and nutrient leaching (Haubjerg et al., 2015; El Gamal,
2017). Expansion rate will be measured by recording changes in pellet
volume in response to temperature, which affects buoyancy and feed
efficiency (Yasumaru et al., 2022).
8. How will you control for environmental factors that might affect tilapia
growth, such as water quality or temperature?
Our hypothesis would be supported if tilapia fed with one of the feed sources
(either Azolla or algae) shows significantly higher growth rates in terms of
weight and length. If there’s no significant difference, it would suggest that
both feeds are equally viable alternatives. In this case, we would recommend
either feed as a cost-effective option, providing farmers with flexibility in
feed choice (Ibrahim et al., 2014; Mello et al., 2013).
10. What are the main limitations of using Azolla and algae as feed
sources, and how do you plan to address these in the study?
One main limitation is ensuring water stability and durability of the pellets,
as these factors can affect feeding efficiency and water quality. We will use a
controlled pellet preparation process, including the addition of a binding
agent, to improve pellet stability (Wan Nooraida et al., 2019). Another
limitation is the potential for nutrient leaching; we will test pellets for water
stability to minimize nutrient loss and maintain environmental quality
(Yasumaru et al., 2022).
While studies have shown the benefits of Azolla and algae individually as
feed sources (Mosha, 2018; Vijayaram et al., 2024), few studies directly
compare their effects on tilapia growth. Our research fills this gap by
conducting a direct comparative analysis to determine which feed source
provides better growth results, contributing new insights to the field of
sustainable aquaculture.
12. Have you considered any studies where Azolla or algae was
tested on species other than tilapia, and if so, what insights were
gained?
Yes, studies have shown that Azolla has been effective as a feed for other
fish species, such as carp and catfish, indicating its broad applicability in
aquaculture (Ceron et al., n.d.). Algae, too, has been used successfully in
various species for its protein and lipid content, which supports growth and
immune function (Valente et al., 2016). These studies provide a foundation
for expecting similar benefits in tilapia when using these alternative feeds.