Probiotics in Shrimp Aquaculture

Abstract

Abstract Probiotics are nonpathogenic and nontoxic microorganisms without undesirable side effects when administered to aquatic organisms. The probiotics and other immune stimulants as dietary supplements can enhance innate defense and resistance to pathogen during periods of stress. Probiotics, as “bio-friendly agents” such as Lactobacillus sp. and Bacillus sp., can be introduced into the culture environment to control and compete with pathogenic bacteria as well as to promote the growth of the cultured organisms. The probiotic bacteria are associated with beneficial effects for human and animals to inhibit harmful bacteria, promote good digestion, boost immune function, resistance to infection, and producing antibacterial substances with the purpose of inhibit the growth of pathogenic bacteria. Shrimp aquaculture is the fastest growing animal food–producing sectors in the world due to its high demand in developed countries; however, they are affected by diseases mainly caused by opportunistic pathogens, resulting in huge economic loss. Today, preventive and management measures are central concern to overcome such outbreak of diseases. The cultivation of marine shrimps or prawns for human consumption and is now considered as a major economic and food production sector as it is an increasingly important source of protein available for human consumption. Intensification of shrimp farming had led to the development of a number of diseases, which resulted in the excessive use of antimicrobial agents, which is finally responsible for many adverse effects. Currently, probiotics are chosen as the best alternatives to these antimicrobial agents, and they act as natural immune enhancers, which provoke the disease resistance in shrimp farm. Viral diseases stand as the major constraint causing an enormous loss in the production in shrimp farms. Probiotics besides being beneficial bacteria also possess antiviral activity. Exploitation of these probiotics in treatment and prevention of viral diseases in shrimp aquaculture is a novel and efficient method. The benefits of probiotics and their criteria for selection in shrimp aquaculture and their role in immune power enhancement toward viral diseases are studied.