Concepts and Practical Applications of Probiotics, Prebiotics and Synbiotics in Aquaculture

Aquaculture represents a rapidly growing segment of global animal production. However, aquaculture diseases and outbreaks pose significant challenges for this sector. The rampant use of pharmaceuticals within fish and shellfish hatcheries and farms has given rise to antimicrobial-resistant (AMR) pathogens, which potentially threaten biosecurity in the aquatic environment. This chapter covers sustainable proactive measures, particularly the application of biological products such as pro-, pre-, and synbiotics. Probiotics refer to live microbes that colonize or proliferate within their host, subsequently producing natural antimicrobial biocompounds that could stimulate vital growth and immune parameters of their host. These beneficial impacts of probiotics are achieved through multiple mechanisms of action, for example, by competitive exclusion of the host's intestinal mucosa tissue, producing compounds that inhibit microbes, promoting nutrient absorption, exhibiting antiviral activity, and modulating the immune system. As for prebiotics, they serve as energy sources for probiotics residing within the gastrointestinal tract of the host. Prebiotics refer to non-digestible fibers, for example, fructooligosaccharides (FOS), mannanoligosaccharides (MOS), and inulin that help in the development of beneficial gut microorganisms, which in turn improve growth, survival, and immune function. Prebiotics help in the modulation of gut microbiota and its morphology, although some prebiotics may inadvertently stimulate pathogenic bacteria. The addition of probiotics to prebiotics further enhances these benefits, and this combinatory treatment is termed synbiotics. The chapter refers to their use in finfish and shellfish and emphasizes changes in feed efficiency, disease susceptibility, and gut health. Different methods of administration are discussed, such as bioencapsulation in live feed, incorporation into feed pellets, and direct supplementation into culture water. Enhanced molecular methodologies like next-generation sequencing allow for the study of probiotic colonization, providing perspectives into the selection of probiotics. More research is essential to optimize these sustainable approaches for better aquatic animal welfare and production efficiency.

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Sustainability in Aquaculture and Fisheries

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2364-8198

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