Tilapia aquaculture is a pillar of the aquaculture industry. However, keeping these little friends healthy and thriving can be a challenge. Researchers have been exploring natural solutions, and a new study reveals the promise of curcumin, a powerful compound found in turmeric.
A team of researchers from Arish University (Egypt), Umm Al-Qura University (Saudi Arabia), Port Said University (Egypt), Mahasarakham University (Thailand), Zagazig University (Egypt), among other academic organizations, examined the effects of different doses of curcumin in the diet on growth indices, feed efficiency, serum metabolites, redox (oxidation) status, immunity, histological evaluation, and genes related to antioxidants in red tilapia (Oreochromis sp, Oreochromis aureus x O. mossambicus).
Curcumin: Nature’s multitasking molecule
Curcumin is a natural pigment known for its vibrant yellow color and impressive health benefits. It acts by interacting with various cellular processes, promoting overall well-being.
Previous research suggests that curcumin might have the following effects on fish:
- Boosts growth: Increases body weight and improves feed efficiency.
- Improves health: Enhances tissue structure and overall health status.
- Acts as an antioxidant: Protects fish from cellular damage.
The study: Feeding tilapia with curcumin
This study investigated the effects of different doses of curcumin (0, 0.4, 0.6, and 0.8 g of curcumin/kg of diet) in red tilapia. The fish were fed diets containing varying amounts of curcumin for 60 days. Here’s what the researchers found:
- Growth boost: Fish fed with curcumin diets showed significant increases in weight gain and growth rate compared to the control group.
- Improved feed efficiency: Fish fed with curcumin utilized their feed more effectively, as indicated by a better feed conversion ratio (FCR).
- Healthier tissues: Examination of the fish tissues revealed improved structure in the liver, pancreas, and intestines in the curcumin-supplemented groups.
- Enhanced antioxidant activity: Curcumin helped the fish combat harmful free radicals, as evidenced by increased levels of antioxidant enzymes.
- Stronger immune response: Fish fed with curcumin showed a more robust immune system, indicated by elevated levels of immunoglobulins (IgM).
Optimal dose of curcumin
The study suggests that between 0.6 and 0.8 grams of curcumin per kilogram of diet produced the most significant benefits for red tilapia.
What this means for tilapia farming
- Better fish health and growth: Curcumin supplementation can promote tilapia’s healthy growth and development.
- Improved feed efficiency: Curcumin can help fish farmers optimize feeding practices, reducing waste.
- Stronger immune system: Fish fed with curcumin could be better equipped to fight diseases, reducing mortality rates.
Conclusion
The study results indicated that dietary curcumin improved growth performance, feed utilization, histological structure, redox status, biochemical parameters, immune response, metabolic parameters, and genes related to antioxidants.
“The findings suggest that curcumin could serve as a beneficial dietary supplement for red tilapia, with recommended inclusion levels between 0.60 and 0.80 g/kg of diet,” the scientists conclude.
This study paves the way for exploring the potential of curcumin as a natural health stimulant for tilapia and other cultured fish. Other research has reported that using curcumin nanoparticles has positive effects on the growth and health of tilapia; however, it is necessary to optimize curcumin administration methods and explore its impact on different fish species.
In conclusion, curcumin shows promise as a natural and sustainable approach to promoting healthy growth and well-being in tilapia aquaculture.
Funding for open access was provided by The Science, Technology & Innovation Funding Authority (STDF) in cooperation with The Egyptian Knowledge Bank (EKB).
Contact
El-Sayed Hemdan Eissa
Fish Research Centre, Faculty of Environmental Agricultural Sciences, Arish University
El-Arish, Egypt
Email: sayedhemd@gmail.com
Reference (open access)
Eissa, ES.H., Awlya, O.F., Abusudah, W.F. et al. Curcumin’s effects on growth indices, histological scores, blood metabolites, redox state, immunity, and antioxidant-related genes of red tilapia (Oreochromis sp.). Aquacult Int (2024). https://doi.org/10.1007/s10499-024-01500-9
