Chapter 54 - Amino acid deficiency and toxicity

Abstract

Protein in fish feeds is a key nutrient to support the growth of juvenile fish and for health maintenance. Any investigation of a fish disease should include consideration of improper nutrition especially when the history suggests a significant change to the feed source or to the feeding method which preceded the fish health problem. Essential amino acid (EAA) deficiency can arise from feeds that contain ingredients deficient in specific EAAs relative to the nutritional requirement of a fish species. If feed ingredients with a limit range or amino acids are used as protein sources in fish feeds or if a diet is not compounded properly with a range of amino acid sources, then a deficiency can occur. Toxic amino acids derive from plant-based feed proteins when these are used in the manufacture of fish feeds.