Ginger (Zingiber officinale) is not just a culinary staple known for its spicy kick. This ancient medicinal herb is gaining ground in the world of aquaculture as a potential natural and sustainable solution to promote fish health.
Researchers from the University of Kashmir (India), Hainan University (China), Sher-e-Kashmir University of Agricultural Sciences and Technology of Kashmir, and Hainan Normal University published a scientific review in the Journal of the World Aquaculture Society that provides a comprehensive summary of studies exploring the effects of ginger in diets on various aspects of fish health, including growth performance, blood parameters, immunity, disease resistance, intestinal morphology, antioxidant status, and molecular mechanisms.
Moreover, the published study emphasizes the need to elucidate the specific bioactive compounds in ginger responsible for its biological functions and their mechanisms of action against infectious diseases in different fish species.
Why Ginger?
Ginger, a medicinal plant increasingly used in aquaculture, is rich in bioactive compounds, including gingerol, shogaols, and various antioxidants. These potent compounds have anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and immune-boosting properties, all beneficial for fish health.
Benefits of Ginger in Aquaculture
Studies exploring the use of ginger derivatives (powder, essential oil, extracts) in aquaculture feeds are yielding promising results:
- Enhanced Growth Performance: Ginger appears to promote faster growth in fish.
- Improved Immunity and Disease Resistance: Ginger’s bioactive compounds can stimulate the fish’s immune system, making them more resistant to infections.
- Antibacterial, Antiviral, and Antiparasitic Properties: Ginger has been shown to combat various pathogens that can harm fish.
- Reduced Stress Levels in Fish: By modulating cortisol levels, ginger can help fish cope with stress caused by factors such as overcrowding or transportation.
How Ginger Works
Ginger’s health benefits for fish are attributed to its unique bioactive compounds, including:
- Zingerone
- Shogaols
- Gingerol
- Polyphenols
- Flavonoids
These compounds are believed to modulate fish physiology and immunity in various ways. For example, gingerol is thought to activate immune cells and increase antibody production.
A Sustainable and Natural Approach
The use of ginger in aquaculture aligns with the growing demand for sustainable and eco-friendly practices. Replacing antibiotics and harsh chemicals with natural alternatives like ginger could be a game-changer for the industry.
Key Findings from the Review
- Ginger Is a Promising Alternative to Antibiotics: Ginger’s bioactive compounds offer various benefits, including immunostimulation, antimicrobial activity, and growth promotion.
- Ginger Can Enhance Fish Health and Performance: Ginger can improve growth, reduce stress, and bolster fish immunity.
- More Research Is Needed: Further studies are required to fully understand the mechanisms of ginger’s action in fish and optimize its use in aquaculture.
Moving Forward: A Promising Future for Ginger in Aquaculture
Research on ginger in aquaculture is still evolving, but the results are promising. Ginger offers a natural, safe, and environmentally friendly alternative to antibiotics. Future studies will focus on:
- Large-Scale Clinical Trials: To validate the efficacy of ginger as a phytopharmaceutical in aquaculture.
- Impact on Overall Fish Health: To investigate the effects of ginger on physiological and metabolic parameters.
- Optimal Dosage and Timing: To determine the best dosage and administration schedule for different fish species.
- Active Components and Mechanisms of Action: To identify the specific compounds in ginger responsible for its benefits and how they work.
- Impact on Intestinal Morphology: To study the effects of ginger on gut health and nutrient absorption.
Conclusion
Ginger represents an attractive alternative to traditional disease management methods in aquaculture. By incorporating ginger into fish feeds, fish farmers can promote fish health, reduce dependence on antibiotics, and contribute to more sustainable aquaculture practices.
Ginger has the potential to be a sustainable and effective approach to fish health management in aquaculture. By incorporating ginger into fish feeds, fish farmers can reduce dependence on antibiotics, improve fish health, and promote overall aquaculture practices.
Contact
Ishtiyaq Ahmad and Imtiaz Ahmed
Fish Nutrition Research Laboratory, Department of Zoology, University of Kashmir
Hazratbal, Srinagar 190006, India.
Email: safish999@gmail.com; imtiazamu1@yahoo.com
Reference (open access)
Ahmad, I., Irm, M., Ahmed, I., Haoran, Y., Taj, S., Bhat, T. A., Khan, S. K., Puswal, S. M., Khalil, H. S., Sopjani, M., Peres, H., Faggio, C., Rather, M. A., & Amin, A. Role of ginger in fish nutrition with special emphasis on growth, health, gut and liver morphology. Journal of the World Aquaculture Society, e13101. https://doi.org/10.1111/jwas.13101
