Spanish researchers develop probiotic capsule for aquaculture

Capsules that contain live probiotic micro-organisms intended to improve the immunological system of hatchery fish and increase the availing of nutrients have been developed by Spanish researchers.

The first system of encapsulation of probiotic micro-organisms for consumption was created after three years of studies. The micro-organisms will serve as nutritional complements in aquaculture.

The encapsulation method is especially recommended for micro-organisms, as their viability diminishes during the process of feed manufacturing.

This discovery agrees with the authorisation granted by the EU for the use of a probiotic in the aquaculture field. It deals with an acid-lactic bacterium designed for the feeding of salmonids and crustaceans, and is registered under the name Bactocell.

The bacteria remain stable in spheres of two millimetres in diameter at 90% effectiveness for more than a month if refrigerated. The bacteria can be stored at room temperature for a considerable period of time while maintaining 70% effectiveness.

Those spheres are visible to fish, which facilitates their ingestion. The spheres are also appetising as they contain odourous substances and colourants of natural origin, specific for each species.

The spheres were created with sodium alginate as it is made up of a non-toxic substance, which is economical and easy to produce, said the researchers.