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Phytogenic Feed Additives in Ornamental Fish Nutrition and Health: Current Knowledge, Applications, and Future Prospects
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R. Kazempoor   , S.Sh. Alavinejad |
| Department of Aquatic Animal Health and Diseases, Science and Research Branch, Islamic Azad University,Tehran, Iran. |
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Abstract: (11 Views) |
Phytogenics have attracted increasing attention in aquaculture as natural bioactive compounds with potential applications in fish nutrition, health management, and disease prevention. Their growing importance is also associated with concerns regarding antimicrobial resistance and the adverse environmental consequences of excessive or inappropriate use of antibiotics and synthetic chemotherapeutics. In ornamental fish, where high economic value, intensive culture conditions, and susceptibility to infectious and non-infectious disorders can compromise production and market value, the development of safe and sustainable alternatives is particularly important. Phytogenics comprise a diverse range of bioactive compounds, including alkaloids, tannins, saponins, glycosides, terpenoids, phenolic compounds, flavonoids, essential oils, and steroids. Depending on their composition, source, dose, and mode of administration, these compounds may improve feed intake, growth performance, nutrient utilization, antioxidant capacity, immune responses, pigmentation, reproductive performance, and resistance to pathogens. Their antimicrobial, antiparasitic, antioxidant, and immunomodulatory properties further support their potential application in disease prevention and health management in ornamental fish. However, the efficacy of phytogenics can vary considerably among plant sources, extraction methods, active compounds, fish species, and experimental conditions, while information on long-term safety, optimal dosages, mechanisms of action, and interactions with other dietary components remains limited. This review summarizes current knowledge on the nutritional, immunological, antimicrobial, and other health-related effects of phytogenics in ornamental fish, with particular emphasis on their potential role in sustainable disease management. Current limitations, research gaps, and future directions for the development and practical application of phytogenic-based strategies in ornamental fish production are also discussed.
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| Keywords: Phytogenics, Ornamental fish, Nutrition, Disease management, Immune modulation, Pigmentation |
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Full-Text [PDF 390 kb]
(7 Downloads)
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Type of Study: Research |
Subject:
Special
Received: 2026/09/14 | Accepted: 2026/09/1
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