The parameters observed included phagocytic activity (PA), phagocytic index (PI), extracellular respiratory burst, leucocyte differentiation, super oxide dismutase (SOD), natural agglutination, leucocrit, and hematocrit.

Catfish with an average weight of 15 g were stocked at a density of 50 fish per 50 L/tank, reared for 2 months, and fed thrice a day at a feeding rate of 3% of total boby weight. The various treatments consisted of fermented earthworms supplemented (FE) at at 0%, 2.5%, 5%, 7.5%, and 10% (w/w). The study featured a completely randomized design, with five treatments in quadruplicate. Earthworms were fermented by inoculation with a bacterial mixture of Bacillus spp. The purpose of this study was to determine the effect of fermented earthworms as a feed additive on the non-specific immune response of walking catfish ( Clarias gariepinus). Improvement of the immune status of catfish is a promising preventive approach to control disease.

Catfish which is an important component of global freshwater aquaculture production is also prone to a wide range of diseases resulting in economic losses.

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