Evaluating the microbial effects of stocking freshwater snails (Physa gyrina) in water reuse systems culturing rainbow trout (Oncorhynchus mykiss)

Abstract

A study was conducted to analyze the effects of snails (Physa gyrina) on biofilm, bacterial abundance, off-flavor-producing bacteria, and off-flavor compounds in reuse aquaculture systems culturing rainbow trout (Oncorhynchus mykiss). Eight experimental-scale systems were used, including four with and without snails. Mean heterotrophic bacteria counts in water were lower (P < 0.05) in systems with snails. Submerged surfaces of sumps containing snails were nearly biofilm-free, while sumps without snails were coated with biofilm. Geosmin levels in trout fillets from snail-stocked systems were generally lower but not statistically different from the controls. Rainbow trout health and performance was not affected by snail presence.