Data for: Evaluation of “trash” fish quality used for hybrid grouper (Epinephelus fuscoguttatus × E. lanceolatus) aquaculture

Full description

Abstract: Low value “trash” fish remains the major feed for hybrid grouper (Epinephelus fuscoguttatus ♀ × E. lanceolatus ♂) aquaculture, yet its quality and deterioration under tropical conditions is poorly understood. This study assesses composition, freshness and storage characteristics of trash fish from southern Vietnam (Ba Ria-Vung Tau, Kien Giang, and Ca Mau), and examines the effect of ice-to-fish ratio on storage stability. Twenty-two samples were examined for sensory quality, biochemical indicators (pH, total volatile basic nitrogen (TVB-N), free fatty acids, trimethylamine, lipid oxidation, and biogenic amines), fat-soluble vitamins (A, E, D3), and microbial load. Only minor regional differences were observed, demonstrating samples were of generally comparable quality. TVB-N values ranged between 62.8 and 153.6 mg N 100 g⁻¹, and 91% of samples exceeded 107 CFU g⁻¹ indicating advanced spoilage. Lipid oxidation was also detected, with TBA values of 5.04 to 6.94 mg MDA kg⁻¹. In the storage trial, fish stored at a 2:1 ice-to-fish ratio maintained acceptable sensory, biochemical, and microbiological properties for up to five days, whereas a 1:1 ratio limited acceptable storage to three days. Deterioration aligned with declining odour and appearance. In general, trash fish quality was variable and deteriorated rapidly without proper handling. Improved cold-chain management, including higher ice ratios and shorter storage periods, can reduce spoilage. However, adopting formulated feeds remains important for consistent growth, improved biosecurity, and sustainable grouper aquaculture.

Dataset description: This dataset consists of 6 tabular data (CSV format) and 2 R scripts used to the quality and deterioration of trash fish used for hybrid grouper aquaculture in Vietnam. The data include sensory scores of fish quality from observers, biochemical quailty parameters (pH, TVB-N, TBA, TVC etc.) and species identifications. The datasets are intended to be used in conjunction with the provided R scripts to reproduce the analyses presented in the associated publication.

The full methodology is available in the Open Access publication from the Related Publications link below.

Software/equipment used to manipulate/analyse the data: The R Project for Statistical Computing.

Software/equipment used to manipulate/analyse the data: R Core Team (2024). _R: A Language and Environment for Statistical Computing_. R Foundation for Statistical Computing, Vienna, Austria. .