(Department Of Fishery, Nasarawa State University Keffi., 2016-03-03) Nege, S. A.; Ayuba, V. O.
Amino acid and proximate analysis of Clarias gariepinus from Lower Benue River and the earthen ponds were carried out using
standard methods. Apart from Leucine, all the other 16 amino acids analyzed did not vary statistically between C. gariepinus from
Lower Benue River and the cultured one. Proximate compositions of the fish samples indicated a statistical variation in fat, ash,
crude protein and moisture contents as C. gariepinus from Lower Benue River was higher in crude fat
(5.99±0.015%than3.40±0.055%) and ash content (2.74±0.035%than 1.91±0.010%). Higher values of crude protein
(16.73±0.030%than 15.97±0.035%) and moisture content (80.65±0.150than 77.24±0.015) were recorded. The results of this study
clearly indicate that fish sampled from these two sources have adequate protein and amino acid levels required by man on daily
basis as stated by FAO/WHO/UN in about 10g weight.