Abstract

Background:
The pumpkin (Cucurbita pepo) is a promising medicinal plant that has garnered considerable scientific attention. It is a widely cultivated plant with high nutritional value and has potential as an alternative feed additive.

Aim:
This study aims to examine the effects of a pumpkin flesh flour (PFF) diet on common carp (Cyprinus carpio) infected with Vibrio parahaemolyticus. The research focuses on growth performance, biochemical and immunological parameters, antioxidant capacity, and the functions of the liver and kidneys.

Methods:
V. parahaemolyticus was identified in infected common carp through molecular and biochemical analysis. PFF was added to the diet of infected fish at various percentages (0, 0.5, 1.0, 1.5, and 2.0%) over 70 days. Growth, haematological, and biochemical parameters, feed efficiency, immune responses, and antioxidant indices were measured.

Results:
After 70 days, the growth performance indicators (final body weight, weight gain, and specific growth rate) showed significant differences (P

Key words: Cucurbita pepo; Cyprinus carpio; Pumpkin flesh flour; V. parahaemolyticus.