In the quest for sustainable and efficient shrimp aquaculture, researchers have turned to natural immunostimulants, yielding promising results that could reshape the industry. A recent study led by Dinamella Wahjuningrum from the Department of Aquaculture at Bogor Agricultural University in Indonesia has shed light on the potential of algal, herbal, and fungal supplements to enhance growth, immune response, and disease resistance in Pacific white shrimp (Penaeus vannamei).
The study, published in *Comparative Immunology Reports* (translated from Indonesian as “Laporan Imunologi Perbandingan”), compared the effects of these dietary supplements across two distinct cultivation environments: floating net cages and land-based ponds. The findings reveal that fungal supplements, particularly those containing Nodulisporium sp. KT29, significantly boosted the final weight and specific growth rate of shrimp. This is attributed to the presence of β-glucans and other bioactive compounds that enhance nutrient absorption and feed efficiency.
“Shrimp fed with fungal supplements showed remarkable growth improvements, especially in cage systems,” Wahjuningrum noted. “This suggests that the environmental conditions in cages might amplify the benefits of these supplements.”
The study also highlighted the positive impact of these supplements on the shrimp’s immune system. Fungal supplements, in particular, significantly increased the total hemocyte count, a key indicator of immune response. Algal supplements, on the other hand, improved respiratory burst and phenoloxidase activity, which are crucial for combating infections.
One of the most compelling aspects of the research is its potential to reduce the reliance on antibiotics in shrimp aquaculture. By enhancing the shrimp’s natural immune response, these natural immunostimulants could promote healthier and more sustainable farming practices.
“The use of natural immunostimulants not only improves the health and growth of shrimp but also contributes to more sustainable and environmentally friendly aquaculture practices,” Wahjuningrum explained.
The study’s findings could have significant commercial implications for the aquaculture industry. By optimizing growth and health outcomes, these dietary supplements could lead to higher yields and reduced production costs. Moreover, the enhanced resistance to Vibrio harveyi, a common pathogen in shrimp farms, could minimize losses due to disease outbreaks.
As the aquaculture industry continues to grow, the demand for sustainable and efficient farming practices is on the rise. This research provides a promising avenue for achieving these goals, paving the way for future developments in the field. By integrating natural immunostimulants into shrimp diets, farmers can enhance the productivity and resilience of their crops, contributing to a more sustainable and profitable aquaculture sector.