NUTRITIONAL VALUE OF INLAND SHELLFISH (CRABS)

Abstract

This study revealed the nutritional status of crab. The sample of freshwater inland crabs was collccted and identificd as Afrithelphosa monodosa. A total of 18 crabs werc collected from their burrows by digging at wetlands of permanent sitc, Federal University of Technology Minna, Gidan Kwano Area in April and June 2021. Crabs were taken to the laboratory of animal biology department, Federal University of Technology Minna, Bosso campus. In the laboratory the crabs were washed to exclude contaminant. The sample morphometric measurement was taken which revealed that carapace width for both samples are between 6.063±0.45 and 5.1800±0.34. Proximate analysis, Ash, fats, fibres, protein and mineral composition was analyscd using standard methods, high Phosphorus content in meat of big and medium crabs recorded are 222.30±9.69 to 204.62±9.69- respectively while there is a least phosphorus content in the small crab which is (18874±9.69). High calcium content in meat of big and medium crabs are 60.92±4.88 to 56.26±4.88, while there is a lcast calciumn content was recorded, a high magnesium content in mcat of big and medium crabs recorded were 26.79±0.73 and 24.87±0.73 respectively with least magnesium content in the small crab which is (24.36±0.73). There is high sodium content in meat of big and medium crabs which are 44.20±0.54 to 44.38±0.54, high potassium content in meat of big and medium crabs recorded are 59.74±2.04 to 63.35±2.04. Moisture content recorded ranged from 6.57±0.27 in the big crab to 7.41±0.27 in the medium crab. The mineral, composition of Afrithelphosa monodosa are Sodium (Na), Phosphorus (P). Potassium (K), Calcium (Ca), Magnesium (Mg). Phosphorus records the highest value ranging from 222.30±9.69 to 216.40±14.93. Phosphorus also shows the highest value in all mineral parameters and distantly followed by potassium with the high value 51.35±2.29 Afritheiphosa monodosa is rich in trace element which would be desirable for healthy functioning of the body as good supplements in food of those with health challenge. It could also be used as additives in animal feed production and replacement to fishmeal. The results from this research shows rich mineral sources such as calcium, potassium, magnesium, sodium, phosphorus and also good source of protein and carbohydrates. Hence, vital for human health.