The effect of dietary supplements on the intestinal microflora of fish

Diets affect the intestinal microflora, which in turn affects the growth performance and immune response on host. Protecting the health of the intestinal barriers is the main guarantee of fish health. Due to the high density in intensive aquaculture system, the use of feed that enhances fish health and immunity is essential to decrease the effects of which on microbial flora by improving the microbial flora of the gastrointestinal tract by adding dietary supplements. Probiotics are common feed additives that lead to increased growth, gut microflora modification, stimulation of enzyme activity and increased resistance to diseases in the host. The use of probiotics appears to be a suitable alternative to modulate the immune system and intestinal microflora, and further considering their antagonistic role against certain pathogenic bacteria and their ability to play the role of growth factor (sometimes associated with prebiotics) when used as feed additives. The gut microbiota has a key role in fish nutrition, immunity, and health, and its imbalance or dysbiosis can promote immune suppression and contribute to the development of fish diseases. The intestinal microflora can control host material metabolism, influence gene expression, tissue and organ development, and immune system development. This review article aimed to clarify the effect of probiotic supplements on the intestinal microflora of fish by discussing the findings of related studies. Knowledge of this correlation between diet and intestinal health is contributed to the aquaculture industry to boost appropriate nutritional strategies which ensure the protection of fish health.

Keywords:

Gut microbiota , Intestinal barriers , Dietary supplements , Probiotic , Fish