In an exciting development for aquaculture, researchers from the China-Norway Joint Lab on Fish Gut Microbiota have unveiled promising results regarding the use of a probiotic derived from the bacterium Bacillus velezensis T23. This research, led by Qiang Hao and published in “Aquaculture Reports,” sheds light on how this probiotic can significantly boost the health of genetically improved farmed tilapia, a staple in global aquaculture.
The study highlights the potential of T23 as a green feed additive, a much-needed alternative to antibiotics in fish farming. With increasing scrutiny on antibiotic use due to health and environmental concerns, the aquaculture industry is on the lookout for sustainable solutions. “Our findings suggest that Bacillus velezensis T23 can alleviate issues like hepatic steatosis and oxidative stress in tilapia, which are common problems in fish farming,” Hao noted.
What’s particularly striking is how T23 impacts liver health and gut microbiota. The researchers found that tilapia fed a diet supplemented with T23 showed reduced liver fat accumulation and improved antioxidant activity. Specifically, the 0.2 g/kg dosage appeared to be the sweet spot, enhancing the expression of beneficial genes while curbing inflammatory responses. “We saw a significant upregulation of anti-inflammatory cytokines, which is crucial for maintaining overall health in fish,” Hao added.
Moreover, the study indicates that T23 can help balance gut microbiota, promoting beneficial bacteria while reducing harmful ones. This balance is critical for the overall well-being of the fish, which in turn can lead to better growth rates and feed conversion efficiency—key factors for profitability in aquaculture. The results from 16S rRNA sequencing showed a marked increase in the abundance of beneficial Firmicutes in fish that received lower dosages of T23, a positive sign for gut health.
However, it’s worth noting that the highest dosage of T23 (0.3 g/kg) seemed to disrupt gut microbiota diversity, indicating that while probiotics can be beneficial, dosage is crucial. This insight could guide future practices in feed formulation, ensuring that fish farmers can maximize health benefits without compromising gut integrity.
As the aquaculture sector continues to expand, the implications of this research are profound. By incorporating T23 into feeding regimens, farmers could see improved fish health and, ultimately, enhanced productivity. This not only boosts profitability but also aligns with the growing demand for sustainable aquaculture practices.
In a world where consumers are increasingly aware of the origins of their food, integrating such innovative solutions could provide a competitive edge for fish farmers. The insights from Hao and his team at the Institute of Feed Research and Norwegian University of Science and Technology are paving the way for a future where aquaculture is not just productive but also more environmentally friendly.