Growth Performance Response Research Articles

Impact of dietary Spirulina on performance, antioxidant status, carcass traits and pathological alteration in broilers exposed to ochratoxin A stress

IntroductionThis study examined the influence of Spirulina platensis, ochratoxin A (OTA), and their combination on growth, antioxidant status, liver and kidney functions, immunity, and carcass traits of broiler chickens.Methods160 unsexed 1-day broiler chicks were divided into four treatment groups, each consisting of 4 replications of 10 chicks. The duration of this study was six weeks, during which the experimental groups were organized as follows: G1 consumed a basal diet (control), G2 consumed a basal diet treated with OTA at a level of 1 mg/kg of diet, G3 consumed a basal diet treated with Spirulina platensis at a level of 1 g/kg of diet, G4 consumed a basal diet treated with OTA at a level of 1 mg/kg of diet and Spirulina platensis at a level of 1 g/kg diet.Results and discussionThe results illustrated that OTA-contaminated feed resulted in a significant elevation in total cholesterol, triglyceride, low- and very low density lipoprotein, and malondialdehyde, along with a significant reduction in antioxidant status and immunological response. On the other hand, Spirulina supplementation significantly enhanced performance performance (body weight, body weight gain and feed conversion ratio). Lipid profile was significantly decreased by Spirulina supplementation. Antioxidant activity (superoxide dismutase, catalase, total antioxidant capacity, and glutathione peroxidase) of broilers exposed to OTA was significantly increased by Spirulina supplementation. Finally, supplementing Spirulina platensis in broiler chickens fed on OTA contaminated diet attenuated the harmful effects of OTA, while improving the growth performance, antioxidant activity, lipid profile, and immune response of broiler chickens.

Supplementation of Enzymatic Hydrolysate in Low-Fishmeal and Low-Crop Diet Improves Growth, Antioxidant Capacity, and Immunity of Juvenile Sea Cucumber Apostichopus japonicus (Selenka)

As the global demand for aquafeed ingredients continues to rise, sourcing sustainable alternatives is crucial for aquaculture industries. This study aimed to explore the potential of enzymatic hydrolysate as a substitute for traditional fishmeal and soybean meal in diets for juvenile sea cucumbers (Apostichopus japonicus). Three isonitrogenous (15% crude protein) and isolipidic (2.4% crude lipid) diets were formulated: a control diet containing 10% fishmeal and 5% soybean meal and two experimental low-fishmeal (8%) and low-soybean meal (0%) diets, supplemented with either 8% enzymatically hydrolyzed fish stickwater (EFS) or 8% enzymatically hydrolyzed chicken pulp (ECP), designated as Control, EFS, and ECP, respectively. Juvenile sea cucumbers (initial body weight, 0.25 ± 0.01 g) were fed these diets for 84 days to evaluate the effects of ECP and EFS on their growth performance, antioxidant capacity, and inflammatory responses. The results revealed significantly higher final weights and specific growth rates in both experimental groups than the control (p < 0.05). The proximate chemical compositions of sea cucumber were less affected by the diets (p > 0.05). Compared with the control group, significantly elevated levels of digestive enzymes, antioxidants, and lysozyme, together with lower malondialdehyde levels, were recorded in the experimental groups (p < 0.05). ECP appeared to exhibit greater potency than EFS in enhancing growth performance and antioxidant capacity. Similar trends were observed in the mRNA expression of SOD, CAT, and inflammation-related genes across the groups. In a nutshell, both ECP and EFS supplemented in a low-fishmeal and low-soybean meal diet could effectively promote the growth and health of A. japonicus, with ECP showing a superior effect over EFS. These findings suggest that enzymatic hydrolysate demonstrates potential as a viable alternative to traditional fishmeal and soybean meal in diets for sustainable sea cucumber aquaculture. Further investigations are warranted to reveal its underlying mechanism.

Co-Supplementation of Diet with Saccharomyces cerevisiae and Thymol: Effects on Growth Performance, Antioxidant and Immunological Responses of Rainbow Trout, Oncorhynchus mykiss

This study assessed the effects of thymol and yeast Saccharomyces cerevisiae on the growth performance, antioxidant capacity and immunological responses and gut immunological transcripts in rainbow trout, Oncorhynchus mykiss. Two hundred and seventy fish (6.62 ± 0.18 g) were distributed in 18 aquaria (15 fish per aquarium) as a 2 × 3 factorial design. The fish were fed on diets containing 0 and 1 × 108 cfu/g of yeast and 0, 250 and 500 mg/kg of thymol for 60 days. The results showed that dietary yeast supplementation led to significantly improved fish weight gain and feed efficiency (p < 0.05). Thymol and yeast supplementation affected the hepatic antioxidant status, leading to lower lipid peroxidation and higher glutathione reserves (p < 0.05). Thymol and yeast supplementation led to significantly lowered plasma aspartate aminotransferase levels (p < 0.05). Dietary yeast supplementation led to significantly elevated plasma and mucus lysozyme, plasma alternative complement, immunoglobulin and mucus alkaline phosphatase levels. In contrast, thymol supplementation led to significantly increased plasma lysozyme and mucus alkaline phosphatase levels (p < 0.05), whereas it had no significant effects on other immunological parameters. The mucus bactericidal activities were improved by dietary yeast but both supplements enhanced the plasma bactericidal activity (p < 0.05). Thymol and yeast supplementation significantly up-regulated the expression of tumor necrosis factor-alpha, interleukin-1 beta, transforming growth factor-beta, beta-defensin and heat shock protein-70 in the hindgut (p < 0.05). In conclusion, dietary yeast supplementation was particularly effective in enhancing fish growth performance and non-specific immunity, while thymol supplementation primarily led to improved antioxidant capacity. Notably, a dietary dose of 250 mg/kg of thymol alone failed to affect the gut transcription as much as 500 mg/kg; however, the co-supplementation of 250 mg/kg of thymol and yeast led to comparable results.

A comparative study of the genetically improved Abbassa Nile tilapia strain (GIANT-G9) and a commercial strain in Egypt: growth vs. stress response

Selective breeding is a potent method for developing strains with enhanced traits. This study compared the growth performance and stress responses of the genetically improved Abbassa Nile tilapia strain (G9; GIANT-G9) with a local commercial strain over 12 weeks, followed by exposure to stressors including high ammonia (10 mg TAN/L), elevated temperature (37 °C), and both for three days. The GIANT-G9 showed superior growth, including greater weight gain, final weight, length gain, specific growth rate, and protein efficiency ratio, as well as a lower feed conversion ratio and condition factor compared to the commercial strain. The expression of growth hormone in the brain of the GIANT‐G9 increased significantly after 6 weeks, although it slightly decreased after 12 weeks. Growth hormone receptor 1 expression also increased significantly after 6 weeks. Muscle insulin-like growth factors (igf1 and igf2) levels up-regulated significantly only after 12 weeks in the GIANT‐G9. Under stress, serum enzymes (alanine aminotransferase, aspartate aminotransferase, and alkaline phosphatase (ALP)) were significantly higher in the GIANT‐G9, while the commercial strain had lower levels. No significant changes were observed in liver ALP activity among stressed strains. Under stress, the GIANT‐G9 exhibited marked upregulation of splenic Toll-like receptors (tlr2, tlr9, tlr21), myeloid differentiation primary response protein 88 (myd88), nuclear factor kappa B (nf-κB), interleukin (il) 1β, and il6. Notably, il6 expression was higher than il1β in the spleen, with the opposite pattern in the head kidney. In response to immune stimulation, globulin levels significantly increased in the GIANT‐G9 but with similar values to the stressed commercial strain. Myostatin expression increased in the spleen of the stressed GIANT‐G9. The commercial strain exhibited the best liver catalase and superoxide dismutase activities under stress, while the GIANT‐G9 showed increased liver glutathione-S-transferase (GST) activity after exposure to ammonia and temperature stress. Serum lysozyme activity increased in the stressed commercial strain and under temperature stress in the GIANT‐G9 but decreased under other stress conditions. Overall, the stressed commercial strain demonstrated higher survivability than the stressed GIANT‐G9. The study revealed significant interactions between strains and stress factors. The GIANT‐G9 exhibited higher growth rates but lower antioxidant and immune capacities compared to the commercial strain at the juvenile stage of life and production cycle.

Growth performance, antioxidant, and immune responses of Nile tilapia (Oreochromis niloticus) fed on low-fishmeal diets enriched with sodium chloride and its adaptability to different salinity levels

The current investigation assessed the beneficial impacts of dietary sodium chloride (NaCl) on the growth performance, oxidant/antioxidant, and immune responses of Nile tilapia (Oreochromis niloticus) and its adaptability to different salinity levels. After acclimating the fish to the laboratory conditions for 2 weeks, the acclimated fish (10.5 ± 0.16 g) were randomly distributed into 25 110-L rectangular glass tanks (15 fish/tank) to represent five groups in five replicates. The fish were fed with experimental feeds fortified with 0.0 (control), 5, 10, 15, and 20 g NaCl/kg feed for 60 days. Following the nutritional experiment, fish of all groups were adapted to different salinity levels from 0 to 32 g /L for a further 3 weeks, during which fish mortality was recorded. Blood samples were taken after the feeding trial and at a salinity level of 24 g/L. Growth performance and hematological parameters (WBCs, RBCs, hemoglobin, and hematocrit), total protein, albumin, globulin, digestive enzymes, antioxidant activity, and immunity status were markedly improved with increased NaCl rates in the fish diets up to 10 g/kg feed, after which all previous parameters were declined. On the other hand, feeding fish on a diet containing 10 g NaCl/kg feed showed substantially lower levels of cortisol, glucose, cholesterol, triglycerides, aspartate transaminase (AST), alanine transaminase (ALT), and malondialdehyde (MDA). Exposing the control fish group to salinity stress (32 g/L) for 3 weeks markedly decreased their digestive enzyme activity, immunity status, and antioxidant response, along with significant increases in cortisol, glucose, cholesterol, triglycerides, AST, ALT, and MDA levels. Conversely, feeding fish on a diet containing 10 g NaCl/kg feed alleviated the negative impacts of salinity stress and helped fish to tolerate salinity stress up to 24 g/L.

Effect of Ideal Amino Acid Ratio of Arginine to Lysine on Intake, Nutrient Digestibility, Growth Performance, Antibody Titers of Newcastle Disease and Infectious Bronchitis Disease, and Carcass Characteristics of Broilers.

This study aimed to assess the effects of different arginine (Arg) to lysine (Lys) ratios on feed intake, nutrient digestibility, growth performance, carcass characteristics, and antibody titers of Newcastle disease (ND) and infectious bronchitis (IB) disease in broilers during 35 days of trial. For this purpose, a total of 816 day-old broiler birds having an average weight of 38 ± 3 g were divided into six dietary treatments in such a way that each treatment had eight replicates and each replicate had 17 birds. The treatments were 0.95 (1.19/1.25, 1.12/1.18, and 1.05/1.1), 1 (1.25/1.25, 1.18/1.18, and 1.1/1.1), 1.05 (1.31/1.25, 1.24/1.18, and 1.17/1.1), 1.10 (1.38/1.25, 1.30/1.18, and 1.23/1.1), 1.15 (1.44/1.25, 1.36/1.18, and 1.28/1.1), and 1.20 (1.50/1.25, 1.42/1.18, and 1.34/1.1) Arg/Lys divided into different amounts according to the nutritional needs of starter, grower, and finisher diets, respectively. The results showed that in the finisher phase, the FI was influenced cubically, while in the overall period, a quadratic effect was observed for the FI (p < 0.05). The results of BWG showed that BWG was linearly increased in birds given different Arg/Lys in the grower, finisher, and overall period (p < 0.05). The results also showed that during the grower, finisher, and overall phases, the body weight gain (BWG) was better in birds fed with 1.05 and 1.10 Arg/Lys (p < 0.05). Furthermore, a better feed conversion ratio (FCR) was shown in the starter and grower phases at 1.10 and 1.15 Arg/Lys (p < 0.05). The results of nutrient digestibility explored showed that the experimental treatments had a better effect (p < 0.05) on dry matter and crude fat digestibility in birds fed with 1.19/1.25, 1.12/1.18, and 1.05/1.1 and 1.25/1.25, 1.18/1.18, and 1.1/1.1 Arg/Lys in their diets while the crude protein digestibility remained unaffected with different treatments (p > 0.05). The treatments had no effect (p > 0.05) on relative organ weights, immune organs, and carcass characteristics. However, higher titers of ND and IBD were observed in birds fed with Arg/Lys of 1.38/1.25, 1.30/1.18, and 1.23/1.1 and 1.50/1.25, 1.42/1.18, and 1.34/1.1 in their diets (p < 0.05). Based on the results of the current study, it is concluded that the inclusion levels of 1.38/1.25, 1.30/1.18, and 1.23/1.1, and 1.44/1.25, 1.36/1.18, and 1.28/1.1 Arg/Lys resulted in better growth performance and immune response in the broiler birds, respectively. Therefore, adjusting the levels of Arg/Lys in feed is recommended to enhance broilers' growth performance and immune response.

The Role of Vitamin K on Growth Performance, Hematology and Immune Responses of the African Catfish Clarias Gariepinus

The Role of Vitamin K on Growth Performance, Hematology and Immune Responses of the African Catfish Clarias Gariepinus

Physiological and growth responses of tambaqui (Colossoma macropomum) fed Croton conduplicatus essential oil and challenged with Aeromonas hydrophila.

This study aimed to assess the effect of Croton conduplicatus essential oil (CCEO) in diets for tambaqui (Colossoma macropomum) (14.50 ± 0.07g), a native Amazonian fish. Five diets (29.25% digestible protein; 3063.14kcal digestible energy) were prepared: 0.00 (control), 0.25, 0.50, 1.00, and 1.50 mL CCEO kg diet-1 and evaluated for 60 days, followed by 14 additional days of bacterial infection with Aeromonas hydrophila. Fish were fed until apparent satiation four times daily and maintained in 1,000-L tanks (n = 15 fish per tank; 5 tanks per treatment; randomized design) in a recirculatory aquaculture system. The main chemical compounds of CCEO were the monoterpenes 1,8-Cineole (20.72%), p-Cymene (12.45%), and α-Phellandrene (11.46%). Animals had no mortality, even after the bacterial infection, and CCEO did not influence the number of lesions in infected fish. According to quadratic regression analysis, feeding fish diets containing 0.85 mL CCEO kg-1 increased their growth parameters and feed intake. The feed conversion ratio was reduced with 0.25 mL CCEO kg diet-1. Before infection, the regression showed that the 1.00 mL CCEO kg diet-1 reduced erythrocytes and increased hemoglobin, hematimetric indices, plasma glucose, total cholesterol, albumin levels, and plasma and liver alanine aminotransferase (ALT) activities. After bacterial infection, quadratic regression analysis showed that the control group had the highest plasma glucose and albumin values, and the treatment 0.50 mL CCEO kg diet-1 increased mean corpuscular volume values and decreased plasma ALT activity. In conclusion, 0.85 mL CCEO kg diet-1 is recommended for tambaqui because it can potentially improve growth performance and hemato-biochemical responses; however, CCEO did not influence responses against aeromoniasis.

The effects of dietary Agaricus bisporus powder on growth performance, haematological indices, and serum immune response in beluga (Huso huso) juvenile

IntroductionThe present study investigates the effects of mushroom powder (MP) on growth parameters, haematological indices, innate immune response, and serum biochemical indices in beluga (Huso huso) juveniles.MethodsA total of 120 fish (45 ± 0.5 g) were stocked with 10 fish in each 300-L tank. Experimental diets were prepared by inclusion of 0, 0.5, 1.0, and 2.0% MP. At the end of the feeding trial haemato-immunological parameters as well growth performance were measured.ResultsThe growth parameters results revealed that body weight, specific growth rate (SGR), and body length increased significantly in the fish fed diets containing 1% and 2% MP (P&amp;lt;0.05). Haematological indices results indicated that none of the experimental diets showed significant effects on red blood cell count (RBC), hemoglobin, mean corpuscular volume (MCV), mean cell hemoglobin (MCH), and mean corpuscular hemoglobin concentration (MCHC) (P &amp;gt;0.05). However, the haematocrit increased significantly in the fish fed diets containing 1% MP compared to the control (P&amp;lt;0.05). White blood cell count (WBC) in the fish fed 2% MP was significantly higher than that in the fish fed 0% and 0.5% MP (P&amp;lt;0.05). Furthermore, MP treatments caused no significant change in the activity of complement C3 (P &amp;gt;0.05), while C4 activity increased significantly in the fish fed 2% MP (P&amp;lt;0.05). Total immunoglobulin in 1% MP had no significant difference when compared with control (P &amp;gt;0.05). Albumin level was significantly higher in fish fed 2% MP compared to control (P&amp;lt;0.05).DiscussionIn conclusion, MP (2%) can be considered to improve growth parameters and immune indices in beluga juveniles.

Effects of Dietary Supplementation of Date Palm (Phoenix dactylifera) on the Growth Performance, Carcass Characteristics, and Immune Response of Broiler Chicken

Introduction: Phytogenic substances encompass materials sourced from plants, including spices, herbs, essential oils, and various plant extracts. These materials have been employed for millennia as natural remedies, owing to their distinctive properties. The present study aimed to evaluate the effects of date palm (Phoenix dactylifera) seed powder supplementation on growth performance, carcass traits, and immune response of broiler chickens. Materials and methods: A total of 250 one-day-old broiler chicks of mixed sex (Ross 307) were randomly distributed into five treatments with five replicates. The basal diet was formulated to meet broiler chickens' nutrient requirements. Chickens in treatment 1 (T1) received a basal diet, while T2, T3, T4, and T5 were fed with the same diet of date palm seed powder at 100 g, 200 g, 300 g, and 400 g per kg, respectively. Chickens had unlimited access to feed and clean water throughout the 42 days of the experimental period. Parameters, including growth performance, carcass characteristics, and immune response of broiler chickens were examined during the study. Phytochemical examination indicated that date palm seed powder contained phenol at 340.92 mg/g followed by flavonoids (205.67 mg/g), terpenoids (112.81 mg/g), tannins (96.73 mg/g), saponins (41.64 mg/g), alkaloids (30.57 mg/g), and steroids (21.68 mg/g). Results: The treatment significantly influenced average daily weight gain, average daily feed intake, and feed conversion ratio. Chickens fed with date palm seed powder had a higher average body weight, feed conversion ratio, and feed intake compared to the control group. Dressing percentage, slaughtered weight, and edible organ weights were higher in T5 compared to other groups. Conclusion: Date seed powder can be incorporated into broiler chickens' diets up to 400g/kg without negative impacts on the chickens’ performance.

Effects of graded yeast cell wall supplementation on growth performance, immunity and intestinal development of broiler chickens raised in floor pens for 42 days.

This study was conducted to evaluate the effects of dietary supplementation of a novel soluble yeast cell wall (YCW) on growth performance, gut health, intestinal morphology, and immune response in broiler chickens for 42 days. A total of 480 one-day-old Cobb 500 male broilers were randomly assigned to four treatments with six replicates and each replicate of twenty broiler chickens: a control group (CON) without feed additive supplementation, and three groups supplemented with YCW at 0.025 % (YCW1), 0.050 % (YCW2), and 0.100 % (YCW3). Results showed that 0.025 % and 0.100 % YCW supplementation significantly increased (P < 0.05) final body weight (BW) and overall body weight gain (BWG) while reducing overall feed conversion ratio (FCR) compared to the CON group. The YCW supplementation also improved (P < 0.05) the balance of gut microbiota by increasing beneficial bacteria (Lactobacillus) and decreasing Salmonella, a potential foodborne pathogen in humans in the ceca. Although intestinal morphology was not significantly affected, YCW supplementation numerically increased the villus height: crypt depth ratio (VH:CD) compared to the CON group. Furthermore, YCW reduced the mRNA expression of pro-inflammatory cytokines (IL-1β and INF-γ) and tight junction protein claudin-1 (CLDN-1) (P < 0.05), suggesting balanced immune response and improved intestinal barrier function. In conclusion, the supplementation of soluble YCW in broiler diets positively influenced growth performance, gut microbiota composition, and immune response, demonstrating its potential as a viable alternative to antibiotics for improving broilers' health.

Unlocking Potential Benefits on Applications of Probiotics in Inland Aquaculture Industry: A Review

ABSTRACTInland aquaculture operations are practised all over the world, contributing about 62.6% of all farmed aquatic animals. This venture is increasing worldwide and outpacing the global market demand for fish and fishery products driven by competition with other animals, over‐population and over‐exploitation of wild capture fisheries. These operations expand globally, associated with the degradation of the culture environment due to poor aquaculture management practices and algal blooms due to nutrient influxes as well as high demand of quality fish feeds of affordable price. To overcome these challenges, sustainable, healthy and environmentally friendly alternatives including probiotics application must be adopted to achieve better production, profitability and productivity as well as a resilient culture environment. In this review, information on potential applications of probiotics in aquaculture (inland aquaculture) focused on sources, safety, approved probiotics for aquaculture, characteristics of probiotics, mode of applications and its potential use on pathogenic microbes control, fish haematological parameters, growth performance and stress responses, water quality parameter, anti‐nutritional factors and feed digestibility, limitation of using probiotics in aquaculture and lastly future perspectives on the probiotics application in aquaculture industry were reviewed and compiled for future sustainable aquaculture production and productivity and environmentally friendly. The review has also highlighted all probiotics application and their approved authority for use in farmed freshwater fish (Nile tilapia Oreochromis niloticus, Catfish Clarias gariepinus, rainbow trout Oncorhynchus mykiss and common carp Cyprinus carpio) and their cultured environment worldwide. Therefore, the review has comprised all information on the potential benefits application of probiotics in an inland aquaculture for public documentation and also identifies gaps in the aquaculture industry that require further research and assessment.

Synergistic fermentation of Cordyceps militaris and herbal substrates boosts grower pig antioxidant and immune function

BackgroundPathogenic infections can significantly impact the health of livestock. Traditionally, antibiotic growth promoters (AGPs) have been used in feed to enhance growth performance and disease control. However, concerns regarding antibiotic resistance have led to the exploration of traditional herbal medicine as a natural alternative, guided by the principle of medicine-food homology. The Taguchi method was employed to optimize the culture formula for cordycepin production, an active component of Cordyceps militaris (C. militaris). The influences of C. militaris supplementing solid-state fermentation (CMSSF) in feed on the growth performance and immune responses of grower pigs were evaluated in the present study.ResultsThe C. militaris ethanol extract (CME) displayed potent free radical scavenging activity against 2, 2-Diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) and 2,2’-azinobis-(3-ethylbenzothiazoline-6-sulfonic acid) (ABTS) after undergoing fermentation. Additionally, the antibacterial testing revealed that CME effectively inhibits the growth of common pig pathogens such as Glaesserella parasuis, Pasteurella multocida, Staphylococcus hyicus, and Streptococcus suis. In lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-treated intestinal porcine enterocyte cell line (IPEC-J2), CME significantly suppressed the production of pro-inflammatory cytokines, including tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-α and interleukin (IL)-6. In addition, higher antioxidative activity was detected as indicated by elevated concentration of superoxide dismutase (SOD) in pig serum. The levels of immunoglobulin M (IgM), IgA, and IgG antibodies, as well as classical swine fever virus (CSFV) antibodies (S/P ratio) in serum were all increased. Growth performance of pigs fed with dietary CMSSF supplementation was improved in comparison with the control.ConclusionsResults demonstrated that CMSSF has the potential to be used as a natural growth promoter to enhance immunity, antioxidation, as well as overall health and growth performance of grower pigs.

Effects of dietary inclusion of Bacillus amyloliquefaciens AV5 on growth performance, antioxidant activity, innate immune, and hematological responses in Nile tilapia (Oreochromis niloticus) reared at low and high stocking densities

This research work investigated the efficacy of Bacillus amyloliquefaciens AV5 in mitigating the stress effects of stocking densities in Nile tilapia (Oreochromis niloticus). 520 healthy Nile tilapia fingerlings (24.43 ± 1.4g) were randomly allocated to 16 plastic tanks, each with a capacity of 400L. Two stocking densities were tested: low density (37.5 fish/m³) and high density (125 fish/m³) with four treatment groups(low density with a control diet (LDC), high density with a control diet (HDC), low density with a supplemented diet (LDS), and high density with a supplemented diet (HDS)) for 8 weeks. HDC exhibited lower values (P < 0.05) for specific growth rate, final weight, weight gain rate, and specific growth rate than fish fed at LDC, LDS, and HDS. The lowest feed conversion ratio was recorded at the LDS and HDS. There were no significant differences (P > 0.05) in survival rates among treatments. There were no notable disparities (P > 0.05) in the LDC, LDS, and HDS body composition. Antioxidant enzyme activities were greater in LDC, LDS, and HDS than in HDC, while malondialdehyde levels were higher in HDC, and hematology parameters in HDS were improved compared to HDC. Elevated levels (P < 0.05) of phagocytic and lysozyme activity were seen in LDS and HDS. There was no change in glucose levels in HDS and LDC. Nonetheless, cortisol was elevated in HDC compared to LDC, LDS, and HDS. Hence, B. amyloliquefaciens AV5(1 × 108 cfu/g) is a potential probiotic to alleviate HDC-induced stress in O. niloticus.

Evaluating the influence of Citrus aurantiifolia seed powder on the growth performance, ileal digestibility and physiological response of broiler chickens

ABSTRACT This study was conducted to assess the effect of Citrus aurantiifolia seed powder (CASP) on growth performance, ileal digestibility, blood profile, and antioxidant status of broiler chickens. A total of 600 (43.54 ± 0.85 g) day-old mixed-sex Cobb 500 broiler chicks were randomly allotted to 6 treatments with 5 replicates each and 20 birds per replicate using a completely randomized design for 42 days. The treatments comprised negative control, T – (standard diet), positive control, T + (standard diet + oxytetracycline 50%) and a standard diet supplemented with 0.25% (T0.25%), 0.5% (T0.5%), 0.75% (T0.75%) or 1% (T1%) of CASP respectively. The results showed that birds in the T0.5% treatment had a significantly lower feed conversion ratio (P < 0.01). The improvement in crude protein and phosphorus ileal digestibility were associated with increase in CASP. Beyond 0.5% of CASP, the serum glucose and protein decreased (P < 0.05). Cholesterol concentration decreased with CASP in the diet (P < 0.01). Supplementation of CASP improved (P < 0.01) total antioxidant capacity, and glutathione peroxidase activities levels with best values for the T0.5% and T0.75% group. It was concluded that CASP at 0.5% and 0.75% in the diets of broiler chickens can enhance feed utilization and overall performance.

Effect of dietary Anabaena supplementation on nutrient utilization, metabolism and oxidative stress response in Catla catla fingerlings

A 60-day feeding trial was conducted to evaluate the effects of dietary Anabaena blue-green algae (ABGA) meal on the growth performance, digestibility, and physio-metabolic responses of Catla catla fingerlings (initial average weight 9.45 ± 0.15 g). Six iso-nitrogenous (30% crude protein) and iso-caloric (378.09 Kcal. digestible energy/100 g) diets were formulated: a control diet (A0, 0% ABGA) and five experimental diets with varying ABGA inclusion levels (A3: 3%, A6: 6%, A9: 9%, A12: 12%, A15: 15%). The results demonstrated that there were no significant differences (P > 0.05) in percentage weight gain (PWG), specific growth rate (SGR), protein efficiency ratio (PER), and feed conversion ratio (FCR) among the experimental groups. Additionally, dietary ABGA did not significantly affect (P > 0.05) body carcass composition among different groups. However, amylase activity significantly decreased (P < 0.05) in the A12 and A15 fed groups, whereas lipase and protease activities remained insignificant (P > 0.05) across all groups. Notably, oxidative stress responses (SOD; superoxide dismutase and CAT; catalase), carbohydrate metabolic enzymes (LDH; lactate dehydrogenase and MDH; malate dehydrogenase), and serum glucose levels increased significantly (P < 0.05) with higher ABGA inclusion. Conversely, serum albumin content significantly decreased (P < 0.05) in the ABGA-fed groups. There were no significant differences (P > 0.05) observed in serum total protein, albumin/globulin (A/G) ratio, aspartate aminotransferase (AST), and alanine aminotransferase (ALT) activities among the experimental groups. Hematological parameters revealed that RBC (red blood cell) count, hemoglobin (Hb) concentration, and packed cell volume (PCV) significantly decreased (P < 0.05), while WBC (white blood cell) count significantly (P < 0.05) increased with higher dietary ABGA inclusion. In conclusion, the inclusion of dietary ABGA up to 15% did not impair nutrient utilization and supported normal growth performance in C. catla fingerlings. However, higher inclusion levels may have a detrimental effect on their growth, nutrient utilization, and physio-metabolic responses.

Effects of replacing fish meal with pork meal and supplementing with crystalline amino acids and fish oil on growth performance, body composition, enzyme activity, intestinal morphology, and immune response of Penaeus monodon

IntroductionThe present study aimed to evaluate the effects of substituting fish meal with pork meal in feed on the growth performance, feed utilization, intestinal morphology, and immune function of Penaeus monodon.MethodsA total of 600 uniformly sized juvenile shrimp with an initial weight of 1.20 ± 0.03 g were randomly assigned to four groups, with each group consisting of six replicates of 25 shrimp each. Fish meal protein was replaced with 0%, 5%, 10%, and 15% pork meal, and crystalline amino acids and fish oil were supplemented accordingly. The groups were designated as P0, P5, P10, and P15, and the study duration was 70 days.ResultsResults indicated no significant difference in specific growth rate (SGR) between the P5 and P10 groups compared to the P0 group. However, the SGR in the P15 group was significantly lower than that in the P5 and P10 groups. Feed conversion rates (FCRs) for the P5 and P10 groups were comparable to the P0 group, whereas the P15 group showed a significantly higher FCR than the other groups. There were no significant differences in whole body composition among all the groups. Apart from alanine, the amino acid composition of muscles did not differ significantly among all the groups. Results of enzyme activity in plasma revealed that the replacement of fish meal with pork meal reduced levels of aspartate aminotransferase (AST) and superoxide dismutase (SOD). Specifically, levels of AST in the P5 and P15 groups were significantly lower compared to the P0 and P10 groups. Histological examination of midgut tissues showed that villus height initially increased and then decreased with higher replacement ratios. The P5 group had the highest villus height, while the P15 group had the lowest villus height. Analysis of gene expression related to liver immune functions indicated that genes in TLR signaling pathway were significantly elevated in the P15 group compared to the other groups.DiscussionIn conclusion, even with the supplementation of crystalline amino acids and fish oil, pork meal should not replace more than 10% of fish meal in the feed of P. monodon to maintain optimal growth and feed efficiency.

Effect of Shrimp Liquid Extract on Growth Performance, Carcass Traits, Biochemical Parameters and Immunological Responses of Broiler Chicken

The present study was conducted to investigate effect of shrimp liquid extract on growth performance, carcass traits, immunological responses, and biochemical parameters evaluation of broiler chickens. A total of 360 day-old Ross 308 broiler chicks were randomly allocated to five experimental treatments, with six replicates of 12 birds each. The dietary treatments comprised five different levels (0, 1, 1.5, 2, and 2.5 ml/l) of shrimp liquid extract added to the drinking water of the birds in a completely randomized design over a 35-day trial period. Results showed that supplementation of broiler chickens with different concentrations of shrimp liquid extract, particularly at 2 and 2.5 ml/l, resulted in improved performance metrics. Notably, these concentrations showed optimal results in terms of carcass yield, weight gain, and organ weights such as breast, thigh, and heart. Serum lipid fractions were not affected by the shrimp liquid extract. However, birds receiving the extract exhibited lower levels of serum creatinine and uric acid, along with higher urea levels. Furthermore, the shrimp liquid extract significantly boosted antibody titers against AIV (Avian Influenza Virus), NDV (Newcastle Disease Virus), IBD (Infectious Bursal Disease) and IBV (Infectious Bronchitis Virus) post-vaccination. Specifically, broilers given 1.5 to 2.5 ml/l of the extract displayed markedly higher antibody titers against various diseases compared to those receiving lower concentrations. Supplementation of shrimp liquid extract in water for broiler chickens at concentrations of 2 and 2.5 ml/l positively impacted performance metrics, organ weights, serum biochemistry parameters, and antibody response against various diseases.

Effects of Laurus nobilis essential oil nano-particles on growth performance, antioxidant and immune responses to bacterial infection in Nile tilapia, Oreochromis niloticus

This study was designed to assess the effects of four feeds containing 0 (CTL), 25 mg/kg (LN25), 50 mg/kg (LN50) and 100 mg/kg (LN100) Laurus nobilis (LN) essential oil nano-liposomes (LN-NP) on Nile tilapia, Oreochromis niloticus. After 56 days of feeding with the above diets, growth performance and digestive enzyme activities determined in all treatments. Then, the fish were experimentally infected by Aeromonas hydrophila and their survival, antioxidant capacity, biochemical parameters and immune-related transcripts were measured, before and after the infection. The results showed that the growth rate and intestinal activities of amylase, lipase and protease were significantly higher in the LN50 and LN100 treatments than CTL. Post-infection survivals in the LN50 and LN100 treatments were similar and significantly higher than the CTL and LN25 treatments. Compared to the CTL treatment, the LN50 and LN100 treatments showed improved hepatic antioxidant parameters and lower malondialdehyde levels before and/or after infection. Infection significantly decreased plasma lysozyme and complement activities, but the LN50 and LN100 treatments had significantly higher activities before and after infection. These treatments had lower alanine aminotransferase and aspartate aminotransferase activities in plasma before and after infection, compared to the CTL treatment. The expression of tumor necrosis factor-alpha, interleukin-8 and interleukin-1 beta increased significantly in the LN50 and LN100 treatments, before and after infection, when compared to the CTL treatment. Based on the results, LN-NP at a dosage of 50 mg/kg is suitable for feeding Nile tilapia as it is a growth promoter and immunostimulator and increases the resistance of fish to A. hydrophila.

Dietary β-mannanase reduced post-weaning diarrhea of pigs by positively modulating gut microbiota and attenuating systemic immune responses

BackgroundAfter weaning, nursery pigs have difficulty digesting non-starch polysaccharides in their diets, which can result in growth and health problems. Among non-starch polysaccharides, β-mannan is easily found in various cereal grains that form the basis of livestock diets and interferes the digestion and utilization of nutrients. Supplementation of dietary β-mannanase in nursery diet can alleviate the negative effects on nutrient utilization efficiency caused by β-mannan and improve growth and health of pigs. This study was conducted to evaluate effects of dietary β-mannanase supplementation on growth performance, nutrient digestibility, intestinal morphology, fecal microbiota, and systemic immune responses of weaned pigs.ResultsDietary β-mannanase (MAN) improved average daily gain (P = 0.053), average daily feed intake (P < 0.05), and gain to feed ratio (P = 0.077) of pigs for 3 weeks after weaning and apparent total tract digestibility of crude protein (P = 0.060) and reduced post-weaning diarrhea (P < 0.05). The MAN did not affect the ileal morphology. Pigs fed with MAN had more diverse fecal microbiota based on the results of alpha diversity [the number of operational taxonomic units (OTUs; P = 0.061), Shannon (P = 0.071), and Simpson indices (P = 0.078)] and relative abundance of phylum Bacteroidetes (P = 0.064) and genus Prevotella (P < 0.05) than pigs fed control diet (CON). As a result of beta diversity, fecal microbiota was clustered (P < 0.05) into two distinct groups between dietary treatments. The MAN decreased (P < 0.05) packed cell volume (PCV), the number of white blood cells (WBC), C-reactive protein (CRP), tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α), transforming growth factor-β1 (TGF-β1), and cortisol of the pigs for 2 weeks after weaning compared with CON.ConclusionDietary β-mannanase reduced post-weaning diarrhea of pigs by positively modulating gut microbiota and attenuating systemic immune responses.