Determination of biochemical composition and meat quality of picarel (Spicara flexuosa, Rafinesque 1810) in the Eastern Black Sea region

This study was conducted to investigate the monthly changes in nutritional composition of picarel (Spicara flexuosa, Rafinesque 1810) in Eastern Black Sea. Sampling was done coast of Artvin and Rize and the samples were obtained from local fishermen nets. Monthly analysis of biochemical composition (dry matter, cude ash, crude protein, and crude lipid), fatty acids and amino acids compositions were done. Meat yield was calculated as maximum (35.33% ) in November and minimum (33.14 %) in June. Maximum dry matter (29.93%) was obtained in April and minimum (24.19%) in July. Maximum crude protein content (19.57 %) of samples was determined in November and minimum (18.27%) in July. Crude lipid content was maximum (9.82%) in April and minimum. (4.71%) in July. Total essential amino acid (ΣEAA) value was calculated as maximum (10885 mg/ 100g), in April and minimum (7940 mg/ 100g) in October. Total non-essential amino acid (ΣNEAA) value was determined as maximum (10875 mg/ 100 g) in May and minimum (7230 mg/ 100 g) in October. Among fatty acids; maximum total saturated fatty acids (ΣSFA) was found (33.35%), in September and minimum (29.20%) in July. In the case of monoansaturated fatty acids,( ΣMUFA) it was maximum (37.15%), in July and minimum (28.48%) in February. Highest polyunsaturated fatty acids (ΣPUFA) was determined (29.62%) in April and lowest (23.57%) in June. It was concluded that the monthly and seasonal changes are affedted on the biochemical composition, amino acid and fatty acids composition of picarel. Keywords: Spicara flexuosa, amino acid, fatty acid, Seasons, Eastern Black Sea