Tilapias feed with diets elaborated from agro-industrial residues based on mango and corn

CIAD scientists develop aquaculture food that stimulates immune system of fish

MEXICO
Tuesday, June 25, 2019, 21:30 (GMT + 9)

Scientists from the Research Center for Food and Development (CIAD) are developing dietary formulas from agroindustrial waste, such as coffee bagasse, fruit peel, vegetables and rezaga cereals, among others, for use in aquaculture.

So far, the work of researchers Crisantema Hernández González and Nayely Leyva López, professors of the CIAT Mazatlan Regional Coordination, and their team of collaborators, has shown that adding bioactive compounds - such as of the phenolic type, obtained from mango and corn leaf dry corn - on aquaculture foods stimulates the activity of antioxidant enzymes in zebrafish and tilapia, in addition to reducing the content of lipids (fats) in shrimp.

Mexico is the ninth producer of tilapia, which is cultivated in the 32 states. On average, 4,340 tons are exported, which generates an economic income of USD 31.9 million, according to CONAPESCA, based on information from 2018.

This species is a fish rich in nutritional components and represents a source of accessible protein for the population. Unlike tuna, tilapia has a low mercury content, so it is safe for human consumption, since it does not carry the possible repercussions for the intake and accumulation of this metal.

Tilapia fillet is rich in docosahexaenoic acid (DHA), essential in pregnancy and in cognitive development in infants.

As part of the scientific process, the members of the Nutrition and Food Plant Laboratory examined the effect on the general health system of the organisms. For example, if they modulate the immune system or intestinal microbiota, if they stimulate the antioxidant system of the organisms or if they have an antibacterial effect.

Tilpias taking their pellet food.

It is important to note that the antioxidant system is closely related to a good state of response of organisms to pathogens or other stress, such as heat or poor diet, so stimulating this system could result in protection for aquatic organisms.

It should be noted that using waste from the agri-food industry could lead to the creation of production chains that are sustainable, in which the waste can be used by aquaculturists. In addition, the use of compounds of natural origin to improve the state of health of organisms could give way to the suspension of the use of antibiotics or synthetic compounds that are traditionally used to combat diseases in crops.

Tilapia fillet is a great source of protein, fatty acids and omega 3, it is very easy to prepare since it is ideal for breading, frying or roasting in the pan. (Photo: Walmart Mx.) ►

Speaking about the future of this project, the scientist Leyva López said that each species reacts differently to the use of these bioactive substances, so it is necessary to investigate the doses administered to the organisms so that their use is controlled and thereby evaluate that there are no side effects due to toxicity.

Finally, she indicated that it is required to test the effect of phenolic compounds and other groups of bioactive on the immune system of organisms, assess whether they exert any modulating activity of the intestinal microbiota or if they exert an effect against bacteria of interest in aquaculture. All of the above focused on improving health and resistance to diseases in organisms.

Source: Agencia ID

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