Probiotics: an innovative approach to enhancing aquaculture productivity

Abstract

Probiotics refer to live beneficial microorganisms introduced into the digestive system via food or water, contributing to overall well-being by promoting a balanced internal microbial environment. These probiotic microorganisms produce a variety of substances, including bacteriocins, siderophores, lysozymes, proteases, and hydrogen peroxide, which effectively inhibit the growth of harmful pathogens. Furthermore, these beneficial bacteria generate a diverse set of enzymes, including amylase enzymes produced by Aeromonas spp., Bacillus subtilis, Bacteroidaceae, Clostridium spp., Lactobacillus plantarum, and Staphylococcus sp., as well as protease and cellulase enzymes produced by B. subtilis, L. plantarum, and Staphylococcus sp. In aquaculture, probiotics have several advantages and play a crucial role in improving fish growth rates, disease resistance, immunity, maintaining health, intestinal epithelial integrity, supporting gut microbiota, and enhancing water quality. Furthermore, the practical application of probiotics in fish diets can reduce the negative impact of antibiotics. The incorporation of these supplements into fish feeds would contribute to improving their productivity and efficient feeds utilization, thereby increasing fish production and safeguarding human health. This article provides an overview of the use of probiotic preparations in aquaculture. It presents information about the composition of the innate microflora in fish, as well as historical facts regarding the development of probiotics in aquaculture. The data analysis indicates that probiotics are effective and environmentally friendly, making them suitable for the entire aquaculture system, including primary and supplementary feeding, as well as water purification. They have a positive impact on the health of aquatic organisms and consumers. Additionally, the article discusses the appropriateness of probiotic use in aquaculture for dynamic and environmentally safe fish farming development, aiming to reduce the spread of antibiotic and chemical resistance and address disease treatment and prevention in fish farms.