Sustainable Approach-Based Effects of Microorganisms in Fish AquacultureIf you are interested in products related to the research phase in this field, please contact for further inquiries.
Aquaculture, the farming of aquatic organisms, has become a crucial sector in global food production, accounting for over half of the world's fish consumption. However, as the global population surges towards 10.4 billion by 2100, the industry faces mounting pressures to meet demand while mitigating environmental impacts. Traditional aquaculture practices often lead to overuse of antibiotics, disease outbreaks, and significant environmental degradation. In response, sustainable aquaculture practices are gaining traction, with a particular focus on the use of microorganisms to enhance fish health, improve growth, and reduce environmental footprints.
Fig 1. Effects of microorganisms—bacteria, yeast, and virus—applied in commercial fish. Blue arrows indicate increased effects. Red arrows indicate decreased effects. Black letters indicate the description of effects on fish. (Amillano-Cisneros J. M., et al., 2025)
Probiotics, defined as live microorganisms that confer health benefits when administered in adequate doses, have emerged as a cornerstone in sustainable aquaculture. These beneficial microorganisms, primarily lactic acid bacteria and yeasts, can significantly enhance fish health and growth. For instance, Lactobacillus plantarum has been shown to improve growth rates and immune responses in Nile tilapia (Oreochromis niloticus) and common carp (Cyprinus carpio). Studies indicate that probiotics can enhance immune responses, improve digestive enzyme activity, and increase nutrient absorption, thereby promoting overall fish health and growth.
In Nile tilapia, the administration of Lactobacillus plantarum at a concentration of 1×108 CFU/g significantly improved growth and immune response. Similarly, in common carp, the use of Lactococcus lactis at a concentration of 1×108 CFU/g increased survival rates and enhanced immune parameters. These findings highlight the potential of probiotics to not only improve fish health but also to reduce the reliance on antibiotics, which is a significant step towards sustainable aquaculture practices.
Bacteriophages, viruses that specifically infect and kill bacteria, offer a targeted and environmentally friendly alternative to antibiotics for controlling bacterial pathogens in aquaculture. These phages can be applied prophylactically or therapeutically, demonstrating significant efficacy in reducing mortality rates in infected fish. For example, the bacteriophage AhFM11, which targets Aeromonas hydrophila, has shown 100% survival rates in fish when administered via injection. Similarly, phage therapy has been effective against other pathogens such as Vibrio harveyi and Streptococcus agalactiae, with survival rates reaching up to 80% in some studies.
In Rohu (Labeo rohita), the application of AhFM11 via injection resulted in 100% survival rates, showcasing the potential of bacteriophages as a powerful tool in disease management. In turbot (Scophthalmus maximus), feeding phage cocktails targeting Vibrio harveyi achieved an 80% survival rate, further emphasizing the effectiveness of phage therapy in aquaculture. These results indicate that bacteriophages can provide a sustainable and effective solution to bacterial infections, reducing the need for chemical treatments and minimizing environmental impacts.
Genetically modified microorganisms (GMMs) represent a cutting-edge approach to enhancing fish health and production. GMMs can be engineered to produce beneficial compounds, such as enzymes and antimicrobial peptides, which can improve fish health and reduce the need for chemical treatments. For example, genetically modified bacteria like Escherichia coli and Bacillus subtilis have been used to generate antiviral molecules for treating viral infections in shrimp. Additionally, GMMs can be designed to express specific epitopes that stimulate the immune system of fish, providing protection against viral and bacterial pathogens.
In Nile tilapia, the use of recombinant Bacillus subtilis in the diet enhanced the immune response, demonstrating the potential of GMMs to improve fish health. In rainbow trout (Oncorhynchus mykiss), the application of recombinant Lactobacillus expressing specific epitopes provided protection against infectious pancreatic necrosis virus (IPNV). These studies highlight the potential of GMMs to not only improve fish health but also to reduce the reliance on chemical treatments, contributing to sustainable aquaculture practices.
The use of microorganisms in aquaculture not only enhances fish health and growth but also offers significant environmental and economic benefits. Probiotics and bacteriophages can reduce the need for antibiotics, thereby mitigating the risk of antibiotic resistance in aquatic bacteria. Additionally, these microorganisms can improve water quality by reducing the release of nitrogen and phosphorus, which are common pollutants in intensive aquaculture systems. Economically, the use of microorganisms can lead to higher survival rates and improved growth, resulting in increased yields and reduced production costs.
By reducing the reliance on antibiotics and chemical treatments, microorganisms can significantly mitigate environmental degradation associated with aquaculture. Improved water quality and reduced pollution contribute to a healthier ecosystem, supporting biodiversity and reducing the ecological footprint of aquaculture operations. Economically, the use of microorganisms can lead to higher survival rates and improved growth, resulting in increased yields and reduced production costs. These benefits underscore the potential of microorganisms to contribute to sustainable and economically viable aquaculture practices.
Despite the potential benefits, the use of microorganisms in aquaculture faces several challenges. Regulatory hurdles, public acceptance, and environmental risks must be addressed to ensure the safe and sustainable application of these technologies. Further research is needed to optimize the formulations and delivery methods of probiotics and bacteriophages. Additionally, the development of robust regulatory frameworks and transparent communication strategies will be essential to foster public trust and acceptance.
Advances in biotechnology, particularly in synthetic biology and gene editing, will play a crucial role in the future of sustainable aquaculture. The development of CRISPR-based modifications in probiotics and bacteriophages could enhance their efficacy and specificity, reducing the need for antibiotics. Novel encapsulation technologies may also improve the stability and delivery of probiotics in fish feed. Integrated multi-trophic aquaculture (IMTA) systems, which combine fish farming with complementary species like shellfish and algae, offer a sustainable approach by reducing environmental impacts and improving nutrient recycling.
The aquaculture industry is at a critical juncture, facing the dual challenges of meeting global food demand and ensuring environmental sustainability. The use of microorganisms, including probiotics, bacteriophages, and GMMs, offers a promising solution. By enhancing fish health, improving growth, and reducing the need for antibiotics, these microorganisms can contribute to a more sustainable and environmentally friendly aquaculture sector. However, achieving this potential requires interdisciplinary research, collaboration between academia, industry, and regulatory bodies, and transparent communication with the public. The future of aquaculture depends on our ability to innovate and adapt, ensuring that this vital industry can continue to meet the needs of a growing global population while protecting our planet's resources.
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Reference
| Catalog Number | Product Name | Order | Quantity |
|---|---|---|---|
| A-1054 | Aquaculture Effective Microorganisms | Inquiry |
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| A-1055 | Pond Sludge Remover | Inquiry |
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| A-1056 | Pond Ammonia Remover | Inquiry |
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| A-1057 | Pond Nitrate Remover | Inquiry |
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| A-1058 | Pond Algae Control | Inquiry |
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| A-1059 | Aquaculuture Feed Probiotics | Inquiry |
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| A-1060 | Aquaculture Treat | Inquiry |
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This article is for research use only and cannot be used for any clinical purposes.
