Jatropha meal, a promising plant protein source in aquafeed development

摘要

Jatropha curcas (L.) (physic nut) is a multipurpose, drought resistant shrub or small tree that normally reaches a height of 3-5 m, but can reach a height of 8-10 m under favorable conditions (Figures 1, 2 and 3). It is found throughout the tropics and sub-tropics. It is a hardy plant, thriving on degraded land and requiring limited amounts of nutrients and water. Its seeds have been extensively investigated as a source of oil. The Jatropha kernel meal is obtained after the oil is extracted. The seedkernel contains about 60 percent oil that can be converted into biodiesel fuel of high quality upon trans-esterification and used as a substitute for diesel fuel (Makkar et al. 2007). The kernel meal obtained after oil extraction is an excellent sourceof nutrients, containing 58 to 65 percent crude protein (Kumar et al. 2010a). Furthermore, the levels of essential amino acids (EAA), except lysine, are higher in Jatropha kernel meal than soybean meals (Kumar et al. 2010a). However, the presence of high levels of antinutrients (Mak-kar et al. 2008) and major toxic components (Makkar et al. 1997) restrict their use in fish feed.