Researchers at Volgograd State Agrarian University have developed a highly efficient fish feed derived from southern reed. This reed, typically considered a waste material of the fourth danger class, is being repurposed into a nutritious staple for aquaculture. The breakthrough was shared with socialbites.ca through communications from the Ministry of Science and Higher Education of Russia.
The initial test batch of this reed-based bait has already been produced. The formula delivers a balanced profile featuring roughly 11 percent protein, 3 percent fat, 36 percent carbohydrates, and 5 percent sugar. It is also rich in essential vitamins including A, C, B1, B2, D, and E, and supplies trace minerals such as potassium, calcium, phosphorus, magnesium, nitrogen, copper, zinc, manganese, cobalt, and iodine. In terms of nutritional value, the reed-based feed compares favorably with traditional wheat-based feeds, presenting a compelling alternative for fish growth and health.
Southern reed, while a beneficial resource in ecological cleanup projects, is commonly viewed as a weed that blocks waterways and farmland and can heighten fire risk. The new feed concept turns this invasive plant into a sustainable feedstock option, offering a practical way to utilize reeds after lake and river management operations. This approach aims to support popular aquaculture species such as common carp, grass carp, silver carp, and other carp varieties by providing a dependable and nutritious food source sourced from local plant matter.
These fish are widely consumed by residents across Russia and are valued for their role in aquaculture. However, producers face elevated costs when relying on conventional feeds, particularly in large-scale pond operations. Transforming reed waste into a cost-effective feed solution can help reduce overall production expenses and potentially lower market prices for fish without compromising nutrition or growth performance. The shift toward plant-based, low-cost feed aligns with broader efforts to improve farm profitability and sustainability in the sector.
According to Roman Skokov, who leads a scientific group within the Department of Management and Logistics, the reed-based feed could halve the cost of per kilogram feed for herbivorous species. He notes that current feed prices start around fifty rubles per kilogram, while Reed feed is projected to be available at roughly twenty-five rubles per kilogram. This price advantage could encourage farmers to adopt more precise feeding practices, leading to healthier growth rates and steadier yields. The team emphasizes that accurate feeding can maximize output, and the intended economics should make responsible feeding practices reachable for a broader base of producers.
At present, multiple formulations of the reed-derived feed are undergoing testing in controlled, artificial environments to assess performance, digestibility, and long-term health effects on target species. The ongoing experiments aim to determine the most effective blend of reed components, vitamins, and minerals that support robust growth, efficient feed conversion, and resilient fish health under farming conditions. Findings from these tests will guide scale-up decisions and adoption timelines for the aquaculture industry, particularly for species favored in regional markets. Independent evaluations and peer-reviewed results are expected to further validate the approach and inform best practices for farmers seeking economic and ecological benefits from repurposed plant materials.