Application of prospective probionts at early stages of Atlantic cod (Gadus morhua L.) rearing

Abstract

This work aimed at validating the use of two prospective probionts (Arthrobacter sp. and Enterococcus sp.) at early stages of cod (Gadus morhua L.) rearing. Ova at late post-fertilized stage and larvae during their first 4 weeks of life were bathed with both probionts, isolated previously from the cod-rearing environment. This treatment was compared with groups fed rotifers supplemented with a commercial probiotic (Remus®) and those untreated. Microbiological analyses (total viable counts, presumptive Vibrio and lactic acid bacteria) were performed in rearing systems and larval survival, growth and development were assessed. Larval development was evaluated by proteolytic activity of larval lysates and immunological analysis of important proteins: apolipoprotein A-I, haemoglobin, C-reactive protein, C3 and cod serum proteins. Bacterial bathing led to a significantly higher larval weight, length and culturable microbial load in larval gastrointestinal (GI) tract when compared with the control and Remus groups. Development occurred earlier in bathed larvae. However, their survival was negatively affected compared with the control group, but was significantly higher than for the Remus group. The non-pathogenicity of both probionts was demonstrated by intraperitoneal injection of 13 g cod juveniles. The results suggest that Arthrobacter and Enterococcus probionts affected the larval GI microbiota and contributed to growth, development and digestion, either directly or indirectly.