Tilapia, a versatile and fast-growing fish species, has gained significant importance in aquaculture due to its high productivity and adaptability to various farming conditions. Understanding the intricate relationship between tilapia and its associated microbial communities is essential for optimizing aquaculture practices and ensuring the health and well-being of these fish.
A team of researchers from WorldFish (Malaysia) and KYTOS (Belgium) published a scientific review on the current knowledge of tilapia microbiomes. They also examined studies characterizing the microbial communities present in the farming environment and how they affect tilapia microbiomes and health, shedding light on the various factors influencing tilapia microbiomes, such as developmental stages, organ tissues, and types of farming systems.
The Role of Microbiomes in Fish Health
Microbiomes, the complex communities of microorganisms that inhabit an organism, play a crucial role in the health and performance of fish. Research has shown that the gut microbiome, in particular, influences digestion, metabolism, immunity, and overall well-being. By understanding and managing the fish microbiome, aquaculture producers can potentially reduce reliance on antibiotics and improve fish health.
These microbial communities can influence various aspects of fish physiology, including digestion, immunity, and growth. Research has highlighted the importance of maintaining a balanced microbiome to promote the health and productivity of tilapia.
Characterization of Tilapia Microbiomes
To gain a comprehensive understanding of tilapia microbiomes, researchers have conducted studies to characterize the microbial communities present in different parts of the fish, such as the skin, gills, gut, and internal organs. These studies have revealed the diversity of microorganisms associated with tilapia, including bacteria, archaea, fungi, and viruses.
It is also important to note the existence of tools like SAMBA, which are used to study the microbiomes of aquatic species.
Environmental Factors Influencing Tilapia Microbiomes
Tilapia’s close interaction with its environment significantly affects its microbiome. The microbial composition of the farming environment, such as water quality, sediments, and feed, can directly influence the microbial communities that colonize the fish. Understanding how environmental factors shape tilapia microbiomes is crucial for optimizing aquaculture practices.
Factors Affecting Tilapia Microbiomes
Several factors can influence the composition and function of tilapia microbiomes, including:
- Developmental stages: Microbial communities associated with tilapia can vary at different life stages, from larvae to adults.
- Organ tissues: Different organs within the fish can harbor distinct microbial communities, each with specific functions.
- Farming systems: The type of farming system, such as ponds, cages, or recirculating aquaculture systems, can influence the microbial environment and, consequently, the tilapia microbiome.
- Farm practices: Various aquaculture practices, including diet, feeding regimes, the use of probiotics/prebiotics/symbiotics, vaccination, antibiotic application, disinfection, and pond fertilization, can impact tilapia microbiomes.
Future Research Needs and Applications
Despite significant advances in understanding tilapia microbiomes, more research is needed to unravel the complex interactions between these microbial communities and the fish. Future studies should focus on:
- Identifying key microbial taxa that are beneficial or harmful to tilapia health.
- Developing microbiome-based management strategies to improve the sustainability of tilapia aquaculture.
- Investigating the effects of climate change and environmental stressors on tilapia microbiomes.
By addressing these research questions, we can harness the power of microbiomes to enhance tilapia aquaculture practices and ensure a sustainable supply of this valuable food resource.
Conclusion
‘The current state of the art provides reference information on the dominant members of microbial communities and has identified the core microbiome in the different compartments of a tilapia farming system, such as rearing water, gills, and gut,’ the study authors conclude.
The study was funded by the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation (BMGF) through the project ‘Aquaculture: Increasing Income, Diversifying Diets, and Empowering Women in Bangladesh and Nigeria’ and the CGIAR Initiatives in ‘Aquatic Foods’ led by WorldFish and ‘Protecting Human Health Through a One Health Approach.
Contact
Jonabel Huavas
International Center for Living Aquatic Resources Management, WorldFish
Penang, 11960, Malaysia
Email: jonabelhuavas@gmail.com
Reference (open access)
Huavas, J., Heyse, J., Props, R., Delamare-Deboutteville, J., & Shelley, C. (2024). Microbiomes of Tilapia Culture Systems: Composition, Affecting Factors, and Future Perspectives. Aquaculture Research, 2024(1), 5511461. https://doi.org/10.1155/2024/5511461
