Probiotics: Comprehensive Exploration of the Growth Promotion Mechanisms in Shrimps

Abstract

As feed accounts for a significant proportion of a farm’s expenditure, animal nutrition is one of the key profit determinants. Attributed to the size-dependent market value, enhancing shrimps' growth is essential to maximize profit. Despite not being the best option, antibiotics are often used as growth-promoting agents in farming. Although this trend is less explicit in aquaculture, increasing production yield is paramount, especially when intensive aquafarming compromises animal growth and increases disease prevalence. However, the environmental and clinical pitfalls of indiscriminate antibiotic usage are surfacing. Fortunately, increasing evidence demonstrated probiotics as a safer, more sustainable, and environmental-friendly substitute for antibiotics. Nonetheless, most studies are observational, and the growth-promotion mechanisms of these agents are yet to be elucidated. In this light, this review aims to decipher the growth promotion mechanisms of probiotics in shrimps based on the primary works conducted. Evidently, probiotic treatment modulates the gut microbiome composition. The growth promotion effect of probiotics is partly mediated through the production of bioactive compounds such as short-chain fatty acids, vitamins, and polyamines. Besides, elevated digestive enzyme activities following the introduction of probiotics may help enhance digestibility and utilization. Histological changes at the hepatopancreas and intestine were evident. Furthermore, probiotics may reinforce the protective mechanisms in the gut and strengthen immune function. Treated shrimps demonstrate better appetite and exhibit superior metabolic and growth-related genes profile. Contrasting these recognized mechanisms with antibiotics helps construct the initial framework for designing high-quality probiotics for growth enhancement in farmed animals.

Exploring the role and mechanism of potential probiotics in mitigating the shrimp pathogens

“…The use of probiotics in shrimp culture has been shown to modulate the gut microbiome, leading to improved growth and health. Studies found that probiotics can enhance shrimp performance and stimulate beneficial bacteria in the gut ( Servin Arce et al, 2021 ; Xuan Hui Goh et al, 2023 ). Studies emphasized the potential of gut microbiome manipulation in aquaculture, including the use of probiotics ( Holt et al, 2021 ).…”

“…Probiotics have been shown to enhance the structural integrity of the hepatopancreas and gut, hence facilitating the animal's digestion and absorption of nutrients. Improving gastrointestinal health was crucial for ensuring the well-being of animals, fostering their development, and providing protection against opportunistic diseases (Xuan Hui Goh et al, 2023 ).…”

“…The effector function and binding specificity of each PRP differ ( Wang and Wang, 2013 ). Formation of the PAMP-PRP complex activates the immune response resulting in improved immune function by upregulation of immune gene expression and helping the animal during pathogen invasion (Xuan Hui Goh et al, 2023 ).…”

“…The existing findings provide evidence that short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs) are effective in stimulating the immune response of aquatic animals. However, more mechanistic investigations are required to validate the specific mechanisms by which SCFAs modulate the immune system of shrimp (Xuan Hui Goh et al, 2023 ). Additionally, SCFA plays a critical role in regulating lipid metabolism and preserving intestinal health.…”

“…Due to their lower costs and greater accessibility, corn, soybeans, and wheat are becoming more and more popular aquafeed ingredients. This makes it crucial to take advantage of this property (Xuan Hui Goh et al, 2023 ). Also, probiotic enzymes mitigated the shrimp pathogens experimentally.…”