August 8, 2023
Plant-based diet shows promise in enhancing tilapia growth and immunity, Brazilian research finds
Newly research conducted by scientists from the Federal University of São Carlos (UFSCar), the State University of Campinas (Unicamp) and Embrapa Environment (SP) Brazil, has unveiled the benefits of incorporating the plant Artemisia annua into the diet of nile tilapia (Oreochromis niloticus), resulting in improved weight gain and enhanced immunity, Fish Information & Services reported.
The findings open the door to formulating fish feed enriched with this plant, presenting the aquaculture industry with a novel bioproduct.
Originating from temperate regions of Asia, mugwort, also known as Artemisia annua, has shown promise as a phytogenic additive in animal production, with the capacity to enhance growth performance, intestinal morphology, and antioxidant capabilities. The researchers assert that this plant extract could serve as a natural growth promoter, particularly relevant as the aquaculture sector seeks efficient and sustainable strategies for enhancing fish growth and overall health.
Nile tilapia, a widely cultivated species in aquaculture globally, has been a focal point of the study. The researchers noted that mugwort supplementation over a 30-day period showcased evident benefits. The plant extract not only altered the composition of the intestinal microbial communities, fostering a more efficient ecosystem, but also led to changes in intestinal morphology. This transformation contributed to enhanced feed conversion, protein efficiency, and ultimately, weight gain and growth.
Dr. Michelly Soares, a postdoctoral fellow at UFSCar, highlighted the implications of these findings. The changes in the gut microbiota induced by Artemisia annua not only promote growth but also play a role in the renewal and maturation of the intestinal epithelium. These alterations encompass increased height, perimeter, thickness, and ratio of villi in the intestines of the tilapia, key indicators of nutrient absorption capacity.
Claudio Jonsson, an Embrapa researcher, emphasised the vital role of the intestine in fish's digestion, absorption, and overall health. The study's findings indicated that the morphological changes, such as longer villi and increased villous perimeter, translated to improved nutrient absorption and a more robust mechanical barrier within the fish's gastrointestinal tract. Moreover, the use of Artemisia annua also facilitated efficient energy utilization from the feed.
The significant outcomes of this research have led to the attainment of a patent for the authors, and collaborative efforts between Embrapa and Terpenia Bioinsumos, a phytogenic product development company, are underway to bring a commercial product to market.
- Fish Information & Services