In the bustling world of aquaculture, where innovation and sustainability are key, a recent study has shed light on a promising approach to combat a significant threat to shrimp farming. The ridgetail white shrimp, Exopalaemon carinicauda, a vital mariculture species in China, often falls prey to Enterocytozoon hepatopenaei (EHP), a parasite that disrupts nutritional metabolism and weakens immune defenses. Researchers, led by Mingyan Liu from the Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Marine Biotechnology at Jiangsu Ocean University, have been exploring ways to mitigate these effects through tailored nutrition.
The study, published in the journal ‘Aquaculture Reports’ (translated from Chinese as ‘水产养殖报告’), investigated the impact of different nutrient sources on the growth, disease resistance, and intestinal health of EHP-infected shrimp. The team formulated feeds with varying protein levels (30%, 40%, and 50%) and live feeds including Artemia, Daphnia, and Hermetia illucens. The results were striking.
At 28 days post-infection, shrimp fed a 50% protein diet showed the highest weight gain and specific growth rate, along with the lowest feed conversion ratio. Among the live feeds, Daphnia emerged as a standout performer, yielding similar benefits. “The 50% protein group and the Daphnia group not only improved growth performance but also exhibited a significant inhibitory effect on the EHP load,” noted Liu. This finding is crucial for the aquaculture industry, where disease management and growth optimization are paramount.
The research delved deeper into the intestinal microbiota, revealing that both the 50% protein and Daphnia groups fostered beneficial bacteria like Acinetobacter and Cupriavidus. These microbes are linked to disease-resistant pathways such as vitamin synthesis and selenium metabolism. The study highlighted that the mechanism by which different nutrient sources regulate EHP infection operates through the “nutrition-immunity-microbiota” axis. This holistic approach could revolutionize how we think about disease management in aquaculture.
The commercial implications are substantial. By optimizing feed formulations, farmers can enhance shrimp growth and resilience, leading to higher yields and reduced losses due to disease. This could translate into significant economic benefits for the aquaculture sector, which is a cornerstone of the global seafood market. As Mingyan Liu put it, “Our findings provide a theoretical basis for the prevention and control of EHP diseases and the development of other functional feeds in aquaculture.”
Looking ahead, this research opens doors to further exploration. The “nutrition-immunity-microbiota” axis could be a game-changer, offering a multi-faceted approach to disease management. Future studies might delve into the specific pathways and mechanisms involved, paving the way for targeted interventions. Additionally, the potential of live feeds like Daphnia could be explored further, potentially unlocking new avenues for sustainable and effective aquaculture practices.
In an industry where every advantage counts, this study offers a beacon of hope. By harnessing the power of tailored nutrition, we can strive towards a more resilient and productive aquaculture sector, benefiting both farmers and consumers alike. As the field continues to evolve, the insights from this research will undoubtedly play a pivotal role in shaping the future of shrimp farming.