Analysis of feed composition and growth parameters of Penaeus monodon supplemented with two probiotic species and formulated diet

Abstract

A feed trial was conducted in Penaeus monodon to evaluate the efficacy of two probiotic strains Bacillus coagulans and Bacillus firmus. The marine shrimp, P. monodon was fed with probiotics in live, lyophilized forms, and also formulated feeds incorporated individually with spirulina and yeast. Results manifested that the two probiotic - live or lyophilized, independently or in combination could bring about highest gross energy 3585.3 kcal/kg in the shrimps. Growth parameters such as weight gain % (163.84%), length gain % (95.91%), DWG (12.6 mg), SGR (2.76), FCR (3.60 g), feed intake (2.53 g) and survival (26.6–66.6%) significantly increased with the combined probiotic diet. SEM observations showed the presence of peritrichous pili-like attachment by the probiotic bacteria clinging to the stomach lining. It could be inferred that administration of two probiotic strains in all the three forms, viz., live, lyophilized or in combined form impart beneficial effects on the growth, survival, and for their establishment in the gut microbiota of P. monodon.