Effect of Capsicum annuum on antioxidant activity, oocyte development and resistance against Aeromonas hydrophila in jewel cichlid (Hemichromis guttatus).

This study aimed to determine the effects of 3%, 7%, 11%, and 15% red pepper () supplementation to diet on antioxidant, oocyte development and disease resistance against A210 of jewel cichlid (). Fifteen fish (3.43 g ± 0.03) were stocked to each aquarium and fed ad libitum for 90 days. At the end of the trial, the number of mature oocytes increased by adding 11% and 15% red pepper to the diets. ( < 0.05). Fish fed diets containing 11% and 15% red pepper showed a significant rise in superoxide dismutase (SOD) activity ( < 0.05). In addition, fish fed diets containing 3% and 11% red pepper showed disease resistance against in jewel cichlids. After challenge with , cumulative mortality rates in fish fed with diets containing 3%, 7%, and 11% red pepper were significantly reduced compared to the control group ( < 0.05). Therefore, using 11% red pepper is appropriate to provide resistance against infections, increase fertility and antioxidant levels in jewel cichlids ).