Host-derived Probiotics for Finfish Aquaculture

Abstract

The mucosal surface of aquatic animals harbors a diverse number of microorganisms with interesting biological and biochemical characteristics. Besides acting as a natural defense system of the host, the microbial community that is associated with these specialized tissues and organs serves as reservoirs of candidate probiotics. The use of probiotics is a strategy employed to improve the health of the host and to prevent infectious diseases. Terrestrial microorganisms that act as natural defense systems of most cultured species have been identified as the main producer for these beneficial bacterial candidates. At present, there are a number of commercially available probiotics but their benefits in large-scale aquaculture operations are largely variable. Host-derived probiotics have gained popularity in recent years as they are alternative sources of beneficial microbes to the aquaculture industry that is primarily dependent on the use of terrestrial microorganisms. The relevance of host microbiota and its potential as a source of candidate probiotics are demonstrated in a number of studies done in various fish models. By presenting the results obtained from previous studies on the ability of host-associated probiotics to improve growth and health of the host, this review condensed the current knowledge and information in order to provide a platform for future research and development on the application of host-associated probiotics in finfish aquaculture.