Abstract

This study aimed to evaluate the impact of the Bio-Disc Solar Dryer (BSD) on the proximate composition of Clarias
gariepinus. Fish samples were dried using the solar dryer with and without the bio-disc attachment, and analyses
were conducted according to standard methods. Results indicated that the highest protein content (48.48 ± 1.26%)
was observed in fish dried with the BSD, while the lowest (43.58 ± 0.45%) occurred in fish dried using the solar
dryer without the bio-disc. Although statistical analysis revealed some variations across parameters, the findings
suggest that the BSD can be effectively used for fish drying without significant loss in nutrient quality. Furthermore,
the study recommends additional research, particularly on applying the bio-disc in other preservation methods and
techniques, to enhance the quality and storage potential of fish products.

Key words: Clarias gariepinus, Proximate composition, bio-disc, solar dryer and bio-disc solar dryer.