Abstract

Abdulkarim, B., Bwathondi, P.O.J. and Benno, B. L.

Seasonal variations in the mineral compositions of three commercial fish species; Lates niloticus, Oreochromis niloticus, Rastrineobola argentea from Lake Victoria were determined using standard method and procedures. Calcium, potassium, phosphorus, sodium and magnesium were significantly higher (p0.05) in the contents of manganese, copper and iron were observed in L. niloticus. Calcium was higher in the wet season but not significantly different. Potassium, phosphorus, sodium, magnesium and zinc were significantly higher (p<0.05) during the wet season, while manganese and iron were significantly (p<0.05) higher during the dry season and copper was unaffected by the seasons in O. niloticus. Calcium, potassium, phosphorus, magnesium, zinc and iron were significantly higher (P<0.05) in wet season, while sodium, manganese and copper were unaffected by seasons in R. argentea. The three species were found to be good sources of dietary minerals such as calcium, phosphorus, iron, copper and zinc which could be recommended to pregnant women, lactating mothers and infants for normal growth and good health. The high levels of the essential minerals during the wet season indicated that the species could be desirable during this period.