May 14, 2018

Molluscs, other aquatic invertebrates discovered to produce omega-3

An international team of scientists has found for the first time that omega-3 fatty acids can be created by many invertebrates inhabiting marine ecosystems, including corals, worms and molluscs.

The breakthrough challenges the generally held principle that marine microbes, such as microalgae and bacteria, are responsible for virtually all primary production of omega-3.

Lead scientist Dr Oscar Monroig, of the University of Stirling Institute of Aquaculture in Scotland, said the findings strongly suggest that aquatic invertebrates may make "a very significant contribution to global omega-3 production".

"Our study provides a significant paradigm shift, as it demonstrates that a large variety of invertebrate animals including corals, rotifers, molluscs, polychaetes and crustaceans possess enzymes called 'desaturases' of a type that enable them to produce omega-3, an ability thought to exist almost exclusively in marine microbes", Monroig said.

First author of the study, Dr Naoki Kabeya, of Tokyo University of Marine Science and Technology, described the contribution of invertebrates to the overall omega-3 production as "remarkable", especially since invertebrates represent a major component of the biomass in aquatic ecosystems such as coral reefs, abyssal plains and hydrothermal vents.

Certain omega-3 fatty acids are considered essential for human health, particularly in western countries with high prevalence of cardiovascular and inflammatory diseases, for which omega-3 oil supplements are commonly prescribed.

"These findings can revolutionise our understanding of omega-3 long-chain polyunsaturated fatty acids production on a global scale," Dr Monroig said.