Shrimp aquaculture, primarily Penaeus monodon and Litopenaeus vannamei, is a key pillar in the global food industry. In addition to being a crucial source of protein for the growing world population, it generates significant employment and economic benefits. However, the intensification of aquaculture practices has led to challenges such as poor water quality, stress and malnutrition in shrimp, leading to disease outbreaks and a decline in production.
Traditionally, antibiotics have been the quick response to combat diseases in aquaculture. However, their indiscriminate use has led to bacterial resistance, posing risks to public and environmental health. This, coupled with the growing consumer concern about animal products treated with antibiotics, has driven the search for sustainable alternatives.
In this context, phytobiotics emerge as a promising option. A team of researchers from Universiti Malaysia Kelantan (Malaysia), Mindanao State University-Tawi-Tawi (Philippines), Universiti Malaysia Terengganu (Malaysia), Sylhet Agricultural University (Bangladesh), and Kastamonu University (Turkey) published a scientific review discussing and summarizing the current trend of applying phytobiotics in marine shrimp farming to enhance the immune system, improve growth performance, increase antioxidant capacity, stimulate disease resistance, and mitigate stress.
Challenges in the Shrimp Industry
Intensive shrimp farming has led to increased population density, causing stress in the animals, deteriorating water quality, and consequently, disease outbreaks. Among the most common diseases are vibriosis, white spot syndrome (WSSV), early mortality syndrome (EMS or AHPND), yellow head virus (YHV), gill-associated virus (GAV), infectious hypodermal and hematopoietic necrosis virus (IHHNV), and microsporidiosis caused by Enterocytozoon hepatopenaei. These diseases can cause devastating economic losses.
Traditionally, antibiotics and chemicals have been the first line of defense against these diseases. However, their indiscriminate use has led to bacterial resistance, contaminated the environment, and raised concerns about food safety.
What Are Phytobiotics?
Phytobiotics are bioactive compounds extracted from plants. Unlike antibiotics, their mode of action is broader, ranging from improving digestion to strengthening the immune system. These plant substances can come from various parts of the plant, such as seeds, leaves, stems, and roots.
Thus, phytobiotics offer a natural and sustainable alternative to antibiotics in shrimp aquaculture. These compounds possess antimicrobial, antioxidant, immunomodulatory, and anti-inflammatory properties, making them valuable allies in improving shrimp health and welfare.
Benefits of Phytobiotics in Shrimp Aquaculture
Recent research has shown that phytobiotics play a crucial role in optimizing shrimp production. Their main benefits include:
- Improved Growth and Performance: Phytobiotics can stimulate appetite, improve food digestibility, and optimize nutrient absorption, leading to faster and more efficient shrimp growth.
- Increased Antioxidant Capacity: These natural substances possess antioxidant properties that protect shrimp from damage caused by free radicals, strengthening their immune system and reducing oxidative stress.
- Immune System Enhancement: Phytobiotics stimulate the production of immune cells, increasing shrimp resistance to infectious diseases.
- Disease Prevention: Some research suggests that phytobiotics can inhibit the growth of pathogenic bacteria, thus reducing the incidence of diseases in shrimp farms.
- Stress Mitigation: Phytobiotics can help shrimp overcome stress caused by adverse environmental factors, such as changes in water quality or population density.
Implications for the Shrimp Industry
The incorporation of phytobiotics in shrimp feed represents a significant step towards more sustainable and environmentally friendly aquaculture. By reducing reliance on antibiotics and improving the health and welfare of animals, phytobiotics contribute to the production of safe and high-quality food.
However, it is important to note that more research is needed to fully understand the mechanisms of action of phytobiotics and optimize their use in shrimp aquaculture. As research progresses, we can expect a future where phytobiotics become an essential component of aquaculture production strategies.
Conclusion
Phytobiotics are emerging as a valuable tool to overcome the challenges of shrimp aquaculture. Their ability to improve growth, strengthen the immune system, and reduce stress offers a holistic approach to shrimp health and welfare. As research advances, we expect further development and application of these natural compounds in the aquaculture industry, contributing to a more sustainable and productive future.
The study was funded by Universiti Malaysia Kelantan Matching Grant and the Ministry of Higher Education, Malaysia, under the Niche Research Grant Scheme (NRGS).
Contact
Lee Seong Wei
Department of Agricultural Sciences, Faculty of Agro-Based Industry, Universiti Malaysia Kelantan
Jeli Campus, 17600, Jeli, Kelantan, Malaysia.
leeseong@umk.edu.my
Reference (open access)
Seong Wei, L., Mohamad Sukri, S. A., Tahiluddin, A. B., Abdul Kari, Z., Wee, W., & Kabir, M. A. (2024). Exploring beneficial effects of phytobiotics in marine shrimp farming: A review. Heliyon, 10(14), e31074. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.heliyon.2024.e31074
