Effects of dietary inclusion of zeolite (Clinoptilolite) on blood parameters of tilapia (Oreochromis niloticus) infected by Aeromonas hydrophila

In this study, the effects of Zeolite (Clinoptilolite) added feed on some blood parameters of Aeromonas hydrophila infected Tilapia (Oreochromis niloticus L.), were investigated. Fot his purpose, three different experiments were conducted.In the first experiment: fish were fed with %2 clinoptilolite added fish pellets for 60 days. At the end of the 60 days feeding period Aeromonas hydrophila (1,9 x 106 kob/ml) was injected intraperitonally and feeding was continued for 30 days more. In the second experimental group; fish were injected with the same bacteria after 60 days feeding with fish pellets with no additives. Feeding was continued with normal fish pellets for 30 days more after bacteria injection. Fish in the third experimental group were fed with %2 clinoptilolite for 90 days without any bacterial injection. Finally the control groups were fed for 90 days with normal fish pellets without any feed additives. Blood samples from each group were collected on the 7,14 and 21 days after bacteria injection. Blood smears were made and haematocrit (Hct), erythrocyte (RBC), leucocyte (WBC) and haemoglobin values were determined.Results obtained from 3rd experimental and control groups were found similar. Statistically important differences were found for the levels of haematocrit (Hct), erythrocyte (RBC), leucocyte (WBC) and haemoglobin for the first and second experimental groups.